# Uniting for Connection: Philanthropy’s Role in Coalition-Building and Advocacy Efforts

## TL;DR

This paper discusses how philanthropy can help build coalitions and advocate for policies to reduce social isolation, especially among older adults.

## Contribution

The paper highlights a novel approach for philanthropy to strategically invest in coalition-building and advocacy for social connection.

## Key findings

- Philanthropy can play a key role in advancing social connection through strategic investments.
- Coalition-building efforts can scale evidence-based interventions for social isolation.
- Advocacy for the Older Americans Act reauthorization is an example of impactful philanthropic action.

## Abstract

As social isolation and loneliness gain increasing recognition as urgent public health and societal challenges, philanthropy has a unique and powerful role in driving change. This discussion will explore how philanthropic organizations can strategically invest in coalition-building initiatives that advance social connection and scale evidence-based interventions. Specifically, it will focus on an example of current advocacy efforts to secure reauthorization of the Older Americans Act. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how philanthropy can catalyze action and amplify impact in fostering social connection among the aging population.

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC12761959