For those people who HAVEN'T been following events over at GiveWell, here is philanthropy.com's reporting -- which followed the NYT coverage of the same issue. We aren't going to re-hash the story in all its details, because it has been done. But, what is interesting is that a space that is so focused on caring, and serving, is also so fraught with nastiness. A young upstart decides to go it alone -- shake it up -- sneer at his seniors -- and makes very public mistakes along the way. And, his subsequent public flogging has been painful.

As more non-profits emerge, as donors wake up to the power of their investments, as individuals look for a way to make a difference, we risk becoming so zealous that we're blind to anything that doesn't fit our particular storylines. And, young would be social innovators are eager to start fresh. Disenfranchised by what is there, they want to start anew. (Think young voter affection for Obama) They want to make a difference, on their terms.  Who can blame them? The establishment isn't always an open place.

Philanthropy.com asked leaders what they saw on the horizon in 2008. Issues ranged from application of technology, to transparency, to particular problems/opportunities plaguing one sector or another (ie arts, environmental, etc.). We'd like to chime in with our predictions -- measuring effectiveness will become increasingly important.

But we'd like to add this -- for the sector.

Empower young people to make a difference within current organizations. Be willing to be self-critical and change (a hallmark of the young!) Recruit and PAY young people. Talent follows money. Mentor young people. This is hard work -- and it can be all consuming. Rosetta's New Year's post makes this all too clear.

Okay, and, we have to include it: measure the effectiveness of your programs, people.

Holden Karnofsky, GiveWell, nonprofit, donors, investment, philanthropy, social innovators, measure effectiveness