A little over a year ago, I was participating in Exponent Philanthropy’s Weekly Funder Discussions on Zoom, talking about the role philanthropy could play during the coffee and blankets stage of the pandemic. From my peers, I learned about being flexible in grant terms, the importance of listening well, and the need for open communications... Read More
At Common Counsel Foundation, we support, advise and manage donor advised funds and family foundations. It’s clear that an individual funder (and a small-staffed one no less!) won’t solve the world’s intractable problems alone. In fact, it will take a whole network of funders at the same table if we want to make progress. As... Read More
This post originally appeared on the Foundant Technologies blog. Last fall, we asked our clients to share the work they’re doing in the areas of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. No surprise, they went above and beyond. We are inspired by their responses and follow up conversations, and look forward to sharing these stories with... Read More
Power is taboo. We’re uncomfortable that some wield greater strength and influence, and use it to hold sway over others. In spite of our laws and regulations, our checks and balances, our moral and social norms nurturing restraint and respect, people use power to bend rules; exclude and disenfranchise; distort facts and disseminate misinformation; manufacture... Read More
Through community and collaboration, the people of New Mexico have survived harsh conditions to thrive for hundreds of years. As a foundation that funds exclusively in the state, we continue to see the power of these values in our philanthropic work. Our most recent strategic plan states, “If we co-create a more aligned, collaborative and... Read More
Responsible investing is at the heart of how philanthropy can further systemic changes needed in our economy, society and environment. Forward-thinking foundations and families have invested this way for years, but it’s becoming more mainstream. A growing number of philanthropic organizations and individuals see investments as a way to expand impact beyond grantmaking. Mirror the... Read More