What's Happening?
Teresa Younger, the outgoing CEO of the Ms. Foundation, reflects on her tenure leading the first national philanthropy run by women and for women. Under her leadership, the foundation tackled issues such as domestic abuse and expanded investments in grassroots
groups in the South and Midwest. Younger, a Black and Indigenous woman, emphasized the foundation's strategic focus on supporting women and girls of color, a shift that resonated under her leadership. The foundation's 2020 report, 'Pocket Change: How Women and Girls of Color Do More with Less,' highlighted the need for philanthropic funders to change their funding strategies. Despite the challenges, Younger remains optimistic about the role of feminism in preserving democracy and constitutional rights.
Why It's Important?
The Ms. Foundation's work under Teresa Younger highlights the ongoing struggle for gender and racial equality in philanthropy. By centering women and girls of color, the foundation challenges traditional funding models and advocates for more inclusive and equitable resource distribution. This approach not only supports marginalized communities but also sets a precedent for other philanthropic organizations. The foundation's efforts to address domestic abuse and support grassroots initiatives demonstrate the critical role of targeted philanthropy in driving social change. As Younger steps down, the foundation's future leadership will be crucial in continuing this mission and potentially influencing broader philanthropic practices.
What's Next?
The Ms. Foundation plans to announce Teresa Younger's replacement later this spring. The new leadership will be tasked with building on Younger's achievements and further advancing the foundation's mission. The ongoing focus on women and girls of color will likely remain a priority, with potential new strategies and initiatives to enhance impact. The foundation's future direction will be closely watched by other philanthropic entities, as it continues to pioneer innovative funding models and support for marginalized groups. The transition in leadership presents an opportunity for the foundation to reassess its strategies and potentially expand its influence in the philanthropic sector.
