The evolution of the STFM Foundation--an improved synergy between STFM and the STFM Foundation.

摘要

Less than 10 years after the incorporation of the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) the STFM Foundation was established primarily to provide the 501c3 tax status necessary for STFM members to make contributions in support of their professional organization. To ensure that the tie to STFM was strong and reciprocal, the membership of the Foundation was defined as the STFM Board of Directors, however, the Foundation Board is a separate group of leaders. During its infancy, the Foundation's sole fundraising effort was in support of the Leland Blanchard Memorial Lecture. In 1987, during what might be considered its teenage years, the Foundation identified leadership development as its primary focus, recognizing the need for academic family medicine representation at the highest levels of health care administration and policy making. This commitment led to the New Faculty Scholars Program, the Faculty Enhancement Experience Program, the Bishop Fellowship, and the International Scholars Program. One hundred eighty-six STFM members have benefitted from these programs. A brief foray into grant-making in 1992 and 1993 was discontinued due to lack of funding in 1994.