Racial equity is a critical element of philanthropy. While lean funders are increasingly focused on it, foundation boards and staff remain disproportionately White. Two of the primary factors holding back philanthropy’s efforts to advance social change are both tied to race: Understanding Race’s Role in the Issues: How race shapes the problems philanthropists aim to... Read More
The Sauer Family Foundation invests in strengthening the well-being of children so they thrive in their families and communities in Minnesota. After the events at George Floyd Square unfolded not far from our office and home, we decided there was no better time to bring a larger influx of our resources to bear for children... Read More
The coronavirus pandemic opened our eyes to how sectors and systems do or do not address the ever-growing health and income inequities in this country. We can approach this in two ways: Admit the inadequacies of our systems. Especially those focused on health, housing, food insecurity and education, or Go a step further to recognize that the... Read More
“Philanthropy relies on the amassed wealth of families and institutions that have benefited from systemic racism. As a result, the institution has a power imbalance in where funds go and what organizations and initiatives receive support,” said Maya Pendleton and Juanita Gallion of The Center for the Study of Social Policy in an Exponent Philanthropy... Read More
Closing the Gap Between Intention and Impact Collected through FOMR data, surveys, and interviews with members, this report centers on the relevance of racial equity to our members’ mission, as well as their board and staff demographics. We also describe how racial equity relates to good governance, grantmaking, and investment practices. Why Racial Equity in... Read More
A little over 30 years ago, Pro Football Hall of Famer and venture capitalist investor Ronnie Lott and his wife Karen founded All Stars Helping Kids. Ronnie modeled his philanthropic efforts on the lessons he learned playing football and investing in technology starts-up. Much like how venture capitalists invest in startups, All Stars invests in... Read More