JDR3 Dialogues 2026: Philanthropy in a Changing World

The world is changing rapidly, while many of the challenges we face today—including climate change, demographic pressures, political divisions, inequality, and community decline—are increasingly interconnected and complex. Philanthropy and civil society can offer flexibility, long-term thinking, trusted relationships, and opportunities that governments and markets may not. This discussion will explore how these changes are reshaping the role of philanthropy, and where greater collaboration between Japan and North America could make a meaningful difference. It will consider which challenges lend themselves to shared learning and action, what philanthropy can contribute alongside government and business, and what relationships, institutions, and other infrastructure are needed to support cooperation over the long term. ___________________________________ This is the first of three webinars in the North America-Japan Philanthropy Alliance's JDR3 Dialogues 2026: Why Philanthropy Matter More Than Ever, exploring why deeper philanthropic collaboration between Japan and North America matters now, what today’s leaders can learn from John D. Rockefeller 3rd’s long-term approach to institution-building, and how those lessons can help shape the next generation of practical cooperation. Future webinars will explore JDR3’s legacy and the next generation of Japan–North America collaboration. We hope you’ll join us for all three! The series is being held in collaboration with the Rockefeller Archive Center, the International House of Japan, the American Friends of the International House of Japan, and the United States-Japan Foundation, whose core support for the North America-Japan Philanthropy Alliance is deeply appreciated. The Alliance has additional support from the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund.