Summer Learning Series: Transparent Communication, Soliciting Feedback, & Support Beyond the Check

This is the final session of a 3-part learning series hosted in partnership with Philanthropy Missouri, Grantmakers Council of Rhode Island, Grantmakers of Oregon and Southwest Washington, Grantmakers of Western Pennsylvania, New Mexico Association of Grantmakers, Connecticut Council for Philanthropy, Council of New Jersey Grantmakers, and Philanthropy Colorado. For more information about this series, click here.

Too often, foundations get in the way of nonprofits doing the work they know best. This can slow down progress, perpetuate inefficiencies, and obstruct nonprofit growth and innovation. Trust-based philanthropy reimagines that dynamic, advocating for six principles of grantmaking that are geared toward building partnership and mutual learning. 

In this deep dive session, we will explore the nuts and bolts of the final three trust-based principles: 1) being transparent and responsive as a strategy to minimize power imbalances and build honest communication, 2) soliciting and acting on feedback as an opportunity inform and strengthen your work, and 3) offering support beyond the check to support nonprofits more holistically while deepening your relationships with them. Since there is no one-size-fits-all approach to these principles, this session will spotlight three foundation’s stories of embracing these principles -- including the steps they have taken to embrace these practices, how they’re bringing the staff and board along, and what they are learning as a result.

Speakers

• John Esterle, Co-Executive Director, The Whitman Institute

• Brenda Solorzano, CEO, Headwaters Foundation

• Mailee Walker, Executive Director, Claneil Foundation

This event is open to everyone. The format will include 60 minutes of discussion with trust-based funders, followed by a 30-minute small-group peer networking session to explore opportunities to deepen your own practices.