FOUNDATION'S ‘PARTNER’ IN THE WHITE HOUSE

That, apparently, will be Valerie Jarrett, White House Senior Advisor and Assistant to the President for Intergovernmental Relations and Public Liaison. Jarrett stated upfront that she is a “true friend and partner” and wants to work with the philanthropic sector. Her office, she said, will be the foundation and philanthropic community’s “gateway” to the federal government. Foundations will fall under the jurisdiction of the Intergovernmental Relations and Public Liaison office.

She has ambitious plans for the public liaison position and office, namely to help bridge the different disciplines. Jarrett views the White House as a vehicle that brings people together. However, while her office can’t answer or solve all issues, her aim is to engage state and local governments to partner with foundations.

Jarrett asked foundations to be the “eyes and ears” on the street and invited foundations to share their knowledge with the White House, which, she said, “will be a sponge.” Read More.