What's Happening?
A new toolkit, Community on Board, has been developed to assist foundation boards in shifting power to communities impacted by their philanthropic efforts. This initiative comes in response to findings from a Center for Effective Philanthropy report,
which highlighted that many foundation boards are not increasing grantmaking funds despite growing needs. The toolkit, created by philanthropy consultant Katy Love and Gita Gulati-Partee of OpenSource Leadership Strategies, aims to address the disconnect between foundation boards and the communities they serve. It provides case studies, recommendations, and data to help boards transform their governance structures. The toolkit is part of a broader effort called Listen to Community, which seeks to make philanthropy more equitable by centering the voices of historically marginalized communities.
Why It's Important?
The development of the Community on Board toolkit is significant as it addresses a critical gap in the philanthropic sector: the disconnect between foundation boards and the communities they aim to serve. By empowering boards to listen and respond to community needs, the toolkit has the potential to make philanthropy more effective and equitable. This shift could lead to more targeted and impactful grantmaking, ultimately benefiting communities that have been historically marginalized. The initiative also highlights the importance of ongoing community engagement and the need for foundations to adapt their governance models to be more inclusive and responsive.
What's Next?
Looking ahead, the creators of the Community on Board toolkit plan to expand its resources by adding more templates and case studies. They aim to build a network of peer leaders committed to integrating community voices into foundation governance. This expansion could further catalyze a shift in how foundations operate, encouraging more boards to adopt inclusive practices. Additionally, the toolkit's success may inspire other sectors to explore similar approaches to governance and community engagement.
Beyond the Headlines
The introduction of the Community on Board toolkit could have long-term implications for the philanthropic sector. By encouraging foundations to include community members in decision-making processes, the toolkit challenges traditional power dynamics and promotes a more democratic approach to philanthropy. This shift could lead to a broader cultural change within the sector, fostering greater accountability and transparency. Moreover, the toolkit's emphasis on listening to marginalized communities aligns with broader societal movements advocating for equity and justice.
