“Madison has long leaned on philanthropy. When John Nolen had a vision of a city built on an isthmus, it was a small group of philanthropists led by John M. Olin who ponied up the $2,500 to publish the unique architectural plan. Since then, nearly everything you love about Madison has been built at least in some part, brick by etched brick, by the generosity of individual donors, foundations, faith communities, university alumni, civic officials, business groups and passionate families—and we’re not just talking about beautiful buildings and parks.”

The City That Philanthropy Built

Madison’s story began with a gift.

Madison Magazine, February 2017

I never thought of myself as a philanthropist before this assignment. I think differently now.

—Maggie Ginsberg is an award-winning freelance writer in Madison, Wisconsin

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