Community Foundations Topical Call: Helping Donor Families Support Efforts to Strengthen Democracy and Increase Civic Engagement

Posted on February 26, 2024 by Ray Barrie-Kivel, Judy Altenberg, Kelly D. Nowlin

The United States is navigating a critical moment in our history as core principles and structures of democracy are under attack. The hyperpolarization of public discourse leaves smaller ground for effective policy formation on any issue. At the same time, however, there are movements across the country that are working to bridge divides, shore up and strengthen justice and equity… Read More

Community Foundations Topical Call: Playing Multiple Roles as a Philanthropic Advisor

Posted on February 14, 2024 by Daria Teutonico, Tony Macklin

As philanthropic services staff at community foundations, we’re called to play many, sometimes conflicting roles: order taker, steward, expert consultant, facilitator, influencer, salesperson, consigliere, and more. How can we effectively clarify and balance the expectations of these roles within and across the families we support? Can we be trusted advisors while influencing families’ giving in ways that align with our… Read More

Rural Funders Peer Network: Rural Libraries as Community Hubs

Posted on February 9, 2024 by Darryl Tocker, Stephanie Chase, Erin Borla, Wynn Rosser

Rural libraries are more than repositories of books. They are community anchors that are hubs of learning, connection and cultural enrichment. These libraries provide an array of services that cater to people of all ages, backgrounds and socioeconomic status. Young families, school kids and seniors alike are able to access information, educational support, and cultural enrichment, all in safe and inclusive spaces. [1] Libraries in… Read More

Engaging Youth Peer Network: Community Service as a Pathway to Youth Engagement

Posted on February 9, 2024 by John Dugan, Greg Weatherford II

What motivates youth to engage in and serve their communities? What kinds of support do youth need to become actively involved in their communities? Come learn about The Allstate Foundation’s work to empower youth to serve and improve communities led by The Allstate Foundation and Social Impact Managing Director Greg Weatherford II. Discuss with your peers how incorporating youth-led community… Read More

Engaging Youth Peer Network: Successful Methods for Engaging Youth in Family Philanthropy

Posted on February 7, 2024

While educating and encouraging youth to actively participate in philanthropy can be challenging, it can also be very rewarding. This conversation will center on the success stories of engaging youth. Join us to hear from Craig Kelley of the Kelley Foundation about what strategies and tools have been helpful in involving youth at his foundation. We will also have ample… Read More

Rural Funders Peer Network: Connecting with Peers to Share Successes and Opportunities

Posted on December 14, 2023 by Erin Borla, Wynn Rosser

Use this opportunity to share experiences of best practices for working in rural areas, discuss tactics and strategies, and connect with funding and partnering opportunities to leverage your investments and increase impact. This conversation will focus on successes and opportunities. Please come prepared to share! Some questions to consider: What initiatives are you attempting? What are you funding? What is… Read More

Community Foundations Topical Call: Engaging Successor Generations and Youth | Connect with Peers Based on Experience Level

Posted on December 7, 2023 by Daria Teutonico, Michelle Beisker, Jennifer Olson Curry

Focusing on engaging successor generations and youth, this session will provide peer learning and connection based on experience with philanthropic advising for multi-generational families. Bring a challenge, a recent success or a 2024 goal to share with your peers. We will divide by experience level using breakout rooms and then have time for sharing insights learned with the larger group… Read More

Meeting the Moment Part Three: Shifting Power & Participatory Practices

Posted on December 4, 2023 by Katy Love, Leslie Ramyk, Monica George, Melinda Tuan

How can funders engage the communities they serve in a meaningful way? Which participatory principles are right for your family philanthropy? In this webinar we will discuss creative ways of community participation in family philanthropy, highlight the power of community and trust, and give you tools to develop an intentional listening practice for lasting impact. Join us to learn effective… Read More

Meeting the Moment Part Two: Effective Communication and Building Consensus through Change

Posted on December 4, 2023 by Jessica Montague, Billy McGuinness, Robin Holloway, Lisa Pinckney, Mailee Walker

Listening well and communicating effectively are vital to understanding and implementing lasting changes in your family philanthropy. During this session, we will be exploring the journey of listening to stakeholders and peers, building consensus internally, and tracking the effect and impact of these changes all while maintaining strong relationships and navigating family dynamics. Join us to learn from family philanthropies… Read More