Who We Are
The John D. Gerhart Center for Philanthropy, Civic Engagement and Responsible Business drives social change in the Arab region by fostering a culture of effective giving, corporate social responsibility and civic responsibility. In addition to publishing research and policy papers, the center focuses on building leadership capacity among Arab youth, equipping them to become more civically engaged and to positively impact society through social entrepreneurship, mentorship and creativity. The center works with a wide range of national, regional and international partners in academia, civil society and the corporate sector. Through fellowships, seminars, conferences, publications and digital platforms, the center fills critical information gaps, analyzes emerging trends and addresses pressing issues in the field. It also plays a key role in developing the next generation of scholars and connects them with social activists, donors and philanthropy professionals.
Named after John D. Gerhart, the late president of AUC, whose legacy is a model of public service, the center was established in 2006 to advance The American University in Cairo's mission of fostering social responsibility and active citizenship. The center is proud to have a significant presence in the region, having introduced the field of philanthropy and gradually built an academic discourse on philanthropy-related research. This work has unveiled new opportunities for foundations and civil society to leverage philanthropy as a tool for social impact and change. As part of its efforts, the center published its flagship book, From Charity to Social Change: Trends in Arab Philanthropy, cementing its role as a leading advocate for philanthropy in the region. Additionally, the center has introduced the concept of community-based learning, a methodology that integrates learning with service to the community.
In 2014, to further amplify its social impact on AUC and the broader community, the Onsi Sawiris School of Business became the new home of the Gerhart Center. This strategic move has provided the center access to valuable business expertise and human capital. Continuing to lead by example, the center is now advocating for the integration of philanthropy, civic engagement and responsible business practices through community initiatives, research and direct engagement with the private sector. As a result, the Gerhart Center is recognized as the developmental arm of the school, driving innovation in the intersection of business, philanthropy and social responsibility.
Vision
A leading platform of interdisciplinary comparative research, youth leadership programs and capacity building to enhance the culture and effectiveness of philanthropy, civic engagement and responsible business practices in the Arab region and Africa.
Mission
To serve as a regional incubator for knowledge, responsible business practices, civic leadership and capacity building to promote effective social responsibility.
Our Aim
The Gerhart Center operates under its three core themes, philanthropy, civic engagement and responsible business, striving to serve and engage society effectively.
We’re here to make an impact!
Our goals are clear:
- Build leadership capacity among Arab youth, enhancing their ability to promote social responsibility and active citizenship
- Positively impact society through social entrepreneurship, mentorship and creativity, while nurturing the next generation of scholars
- Connect the next generation of scholars with a network of social activists, donors and philanthropy professionals
To achieve these goals, we understand that our efforts must extend beyond the resources, knowledge and technology available within our immediate environment.
We’ve expanded our reach to pursue these goals, supported by:
- A diverse range of national, regional and international partners in academia, civil society and the corporate sector
- A rich network of local communities, policymakers, start-ups, foundations, enterprises and NGOs, all of which integrate youth into a broader social framework
More About Us
Thematic Areas
- Philanthropy
- Civic Engagement
- Responsible Business
Objectives
- Foster connections between responsible citizens, civil society and the private and public sectors
- Create a collaborative platform for programs and research that promote civic engagement, philanthropy and responsible business
Values
- Respect
- Transparency
- Proactivity
- Compassion, empathy and giving
- Inclusion and participatory engagement