Lessons in Philanthropy: The Legacy of Barb McInnes
Barb recognized the singular value in people. She believed that every person, every idea, every community possessed something worth discovering and nurturing. Rather than asking how someone fit into an existing pattern, she looked for the connections that would allow each person’s gifts to flourish. That quiet philosophy runs through every page of Lessons in Philanthropy.
This book is not a biography. It is the reflections of people whose lives were shaped by Barb’s generosity, wisdom, curiosity, and unwavering belief in others. Together, these stories reveal that philanthropy is less about money than about relationships, trust, and the courage to see possibilities where others see obstacles.
Having worked alongside Barb in the international community foundation movement, from Eastern Europe to North America, I’m reminded of the qualities that made her such an extraordinary leader. She crossed borders with ease because she led with kindness. She listened before she advised. She built bridges instead of institutions, knowing that strong institutions are ultimately built on strong human relationships.
What makes this book especially valuable for practitioners is that it reminds us that community philanthropy is not merely a profession. It is a way of being. The technical skills of fundraising, governance, and grantmaking matter, but they are only effective when grounded in genuine respect for people and communities.
In an era when many people feel increasingly disconnected, Lessons in Philanthropy offers something both practical and deeply hopeful. It reminds us that lasting change begins with seeing the good in others and creating the conditions in which that goodness can connect with opportunity.
The lessons in this book have no national boundaries. They resonate as much in Eastern Europe as they do in Canada or the United States because they are fundamentally lessons about humanity. Barb’s legacy is not simply what she accomplished, it is how she made people feel seen, valued, and capable of making a difference.
Perhaps that is the greatest lesson of all: every unique person is waiting for the right connection, and communities flourish when someone has a vision and the kindness to help those connections happen.
– Svetlana Pushkareva Hutfles