As spring brings forth new beginnings and new ideas, a national dialogue on philanthropy and pluralism is drawing attention and debate. I’m sharing what has brought me inspiration and hope during the first quarter as I was fortunate to engage in learning opportunities supported by our members and resources shared through conversations with peers in our network.
This past February, Resilia and Philanthropy Ohio held a learning conversation on the capacity-building landscape of Ohio nonprofits with key funders in the state and members of Philanthropy Ohio. The discussion was thought-provoking and rich, with a key takeaway: both funders and nonprofits need support in building their own capacity to engage in trust-based work.
On Tuesday, April 25, funders from across the state will gather in Columbus for a whole day dedicated to philanthropy at the Ohio Statehouse and the Athletic Club of Columbus.
Philanthropy Ohio has an established custom to publish parting thoughts from retiring members. As I conclude 25 years of work at the George Gund Foundation on September 3, it is now my turn to say goodbye.
Philanthropy Ohio launched a Racial Equity Capacity Assessment for members and Ohio foundations to gain valuable insight individually and collectively on the journey to promote racial equity. Registration is open now through April 23 to sign your organization up to participate.
The opportunities that Philanthropy Ohio has provided over the last 13 years for members to learn and share how to strategically and intentionally advance diversity, equity and inclusion in our organizations and grantmaking have provided a foundation for how we can be responsive in this moment.
The way non-Black people can help is first, to listen. As Dave Chappelle recently quipped, “…the streets are talking…” and we would all do well to listen.
This broader awakening of privileged people to see and want to change the ugly and relentless reality of institutionalized racism—that extinguishes hope, breaks spirits, limits potential, and steals futures—has been a long time in coming. And it must not fade from view.
Today is the National Day for Racial Healing, the annual observance created by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation in 2017 and observed every year on the Tuesday following Martin Luther King Jr. Day. It is a time for contemplation and collective action on #HowWeHeal from the effects of racism and an opportunity to bring ALL people together in their common humanity and inspire collective action to create a more just and equitable world.
As February / Black History Month comes to a close and March / Women’s History Month dawns, a focus on excellence in leadership is fitting to uplift all that is deserving of philanthropic and social impact investment. Focusing on the struggles of our past has its place – so that we never forget. But highlighting the excellence in our legacies provides a vital and proactive perspective.
