A Soul/Spirit Connection: Remembering Why Philanthropy Matters: Part II

April 17, 2013

ABFE-logo5By Karen Kelley-Ariwoola

Editor’s Note: Today’s post is the second of two parts written by MCF member Karen Kelley-Ariwoola, a Minneapolis Foundation donor advisor and community leader. She is the former Vice President, Community Philanthropy, at The Minneapolis Foundation, and a former MCF Board Chair.

Yesterday I wrote about my experiences at the recent Association of Black Foundation Executives (ABFE) conference, where I was led and taught by some of the best and the brightest Black professionals in philanthropy.

Today I’ll share how I was also lifted up by the special track of workshops for Black trustees who serve on foundation boards, as well as the annual James Joseph Lecture.

Equipping Black Trustees to Serve Their Community
The trustee workshops were part of “Leverage the Trust,” an ABFE initiative that equips Black trustees with support and tools to be excellent foundation trustees and represent the needs and concerns of Black communities in foundation deliberations and investments.

After serving many years on various nonprofit boards and chairing the MCF board for three years, I was honored to lead “Leveraging the Trust” with co-chair Anita Brown-Graham, a trustee of the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation in North Carolina.

In the workshops, Black trustees from around the country shared their experiences as foundation trustees and deeply explored the challenges and opportunities in moving philanthropy toward equity. I was honored to listen and learn from my peers and elders, and I will use their wisdom and experiences to help ABFE finalize a tool to strengthen the ability of Black trustees to serve with excellence and impact.

James Joseph Lecture: Invest in Early Education
Finally, the James Joseph Lecture given by Dr. Robert Ross, president and CEO of the California Endowment was the centerpiece of my weekend. Last year, I had the privilege of receiving this award and delivering the 21st annual lecture, the highest honor in Black philanthropy, and this year I was pleased to be on the other side of the podium, listening to Dr. Ross’ powerful message.

Troubled by the growing violence in our nation, this very busy foundation head took three months off to dive deep into better understanding causes and solutions. His lecture was an edge-of-your-seat recounting of the vivid conversations, tears shed, and revelations that emerged from listening and learning.

Read the full text of his speech “Enough and Now.” Dr. Ross noted three primary early warning signs that Black boys or young men are signaling for help: third grade reading, chronic school absence, and school suspensions or expulsions.

In response to these concerns he called for “greater investment in the early childhood years, reducing and or eliminating out-of-school suspensions; replacing unreasonably harsh discipline practices with restorative justice and other more accountable and effective policies; monitoring and reporting systems for chronic school absence; the incorporation of wellness, physical and social-emotional health into school achievement testing approaches.”

I’m sure these were not the kinds of recommendations most people expected to hear in response to violence in our communities. But those of us who work in community understand that these are the very kinds of investments that serve as protective factors for young children.

Dr. Ross also called for more people of color in philanthropy, noting that most foundation efforts focused on Black men and boys are led by people of color. In the absence of this diversity, he fears that much of the work focused on equity will not exist.

Dr. Ross closed by reminding us that if we truly “love” the black boys and young men in our community, then we are compelled to fight for justice on their behalf. “Love is justice.”

I could say much more about these three days that were jammed with networking, learning and discovering strategic tools to place Black communities on a path to healing. Though the snow in Minnesota is trying hard to hang on, I refuse to look back to the cold, dreariness of winter.  And I refuse to give in to the sense of hopelessness that often accompanies discussions of lifting the Black community out of its current condition.

I’ve received my annual ABFE elixir and am ready to face the work of building community in partnership with allies that share the commitment to strengthening Black communities.  Springtime brings my new resolve.


A Soul/Spirit Connection: Remembering Why Philanthropy Matters, Part I

April 16, 2013

ari1By Karen Kelley-Ariwoola

Editor’s Note: Today’s post is the first of two parts written by MCF member Karen Kelley-Ariwoola, a Minneapolis Foundation donor advisor and community leader. She is the former Vice President, Community Philanthropy, at The Minneapolis Foundation, and a former MCF board chair.

Every year as the seasons change, I anticipate eagerly my spring ritual of attending the annual conference of the Association of Black Foundation Executives (ABFE), the largest convening of Black professionals in philanthropy.

For my nearly two decades in “formal” philanthropy, I attended ABFE to feed my soul, to be validated for my contributions to the field, and to celebrate those of my peers around the country. But most important, over the years I have been reminded that our work, which is often hard, messy and long-term, matters immensely. Each year I emerged, like the buds peeking out of the dirt, ready to face community-building with joy, new tools and a renewed sense of urgency.

This year my need for support and renewal was greater than ever — coming on the heels of a major job transition and following the recent untimely deaths of my sister and mother just a few weeks apart.

The ABFE conference exceeded my expectations. The conference theme, “Innovation + Investment = Impact,” drew hundreds of staff, CEOs, trustees, donors and others interested in creating positive and lasting impact in Black communities around the country. Attendees were sobered by the fact that just blocks from the downtown convention hotel, Chicago’s neighborhoods had been riddled with violence — particularly homicides of black adults, children and babies.

Philanthropic Strategies to Achieve Equity
Conference sessions aligned with ABFE’s Responsive Philanthropy in Black Communities (RPBC) framework. This agenda for change provides context about the historical and structural barriers to equity of Black communities, along with corresponding philanthropic and policy strategies designed to improve the condition of Black people and increase investments in Black communities. These strategies (primarily directed at grantmakers) include:

  • The engagement of Black communities in the design of effective strategies
  • A focus on systemic causes of disparities and building on the strengths of Black communities
  • Building leadership capacity in Black communities and strengthening their core institutions
  • The use of disaggregated data to inform planning and policy
  • Evaluation that is both quantitative and qualitative
  • Communication strategies that minimize negative images of Blacks in the media

One of the core concepts of the RPBC framework is the notion of “targeted universalism,” a concept that suggests that the whole community can benefit even as we focus to meet the needs of a specific group. A classic example that illustrates this concept is the “cut outs” in sidewalks: First designed to accommodate wheelchairs but universally used by runners, bikers, people pushing baby strollers, and those crossing the street at an icy Minnesota intersection.

Because Blacks, especially Black males and low-income Black families remain overrepresented on almost every negative indicator of wellbeing in this country, it makes sense that we should embrace targeted strategies to close the gaps, while also believing that our entire community will benefit by lifting up this part of the population.

Building on the RPBC Framework, the rich variety of ABFE sessions included:

  • Examining foundation finance and investments through an equity lens,
  • Preparing a pipeline of Black leadership in philanthropy,
  • An “Innovation Market” introducing unconventional and promising ideas that are taking shape in Black communities,
  • A “Donor Salon” that convened Black donors from community foundations around the country (me included!),
  • And numerous other powerful presentations on community development, educational equity, Black men and boys (including launch of a new website with resources on funders who care about this issue), and strategic communications to combat negative media portrayals of Blacks.

As if being led and taught by some of the best and brightest in philanthropy with whom I also share a cultural bond was not enough, I was also lifted up by the special track of workshops for Black trustees who serve on foundation boards and, of course, the annual James Joseph Lecture. Tomorrow I’ll write more about those experiences — and what inspired me the most as I returned back to Minnesota.


Big Conversations and Innovative Formats

October 11, 2012

Joint Conference

There’s just one week left to register before the late fee kicks in for Allied for Action, the joint annual conference of MCF and the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits! Will we see you there? You won’t want to miss these conference highlights:

I’m excited to explore ways nonprofits and philanthropy can move forward together.

-Brad Kruse, Hugh J. Andersen Foundation

Friday Plenary: The New Minnesota

Plenary speakers

Nate Garvis, Lori Saroya and Paul Schmitz

Through a series of TED-style talks, a panel of these nationally-known thought leaders will challenge you to rethink long-term strategies for engaging stakeholders and serving communities:

  • Nate Garvis, founder and president, Naked Civics, LLC
  • Lori Saroya, co-founder and executive director, Council on American-Islamic Relations, Minnesota
  • Paul Schmitz, national CEO, Public Allies

I love the theme of this year’s conference! I’m especially looking forward to hearing the featured speakers.

-Sharon Goens, Minnesota Philanthropy Partners

The Art of Hosting

Through an innovative partnership with InCommons, MCF and MCN will host you in conversations to dig deep into the challenges grantmakers and nonprofits must face together. See the six topics you’ll choose from in your small group.

The quality and professional connections are what set this conference apart.

-Matt Killian, Initiative Foundation

And That’s Not All!

  • Pick from 30+ breakout sessions with expert speakers leading you in discussions about the topics you care most about.
  • Get concrete tools and ideas for action during the Friday morning coffee chats.
  • Make new connections over lunch while celebrating this year’s winners of the Minnesota Nonprofit Awards.
  • Enjoy unbeatable opportunities to connect and network with 1,400 leaders in Minnesota’s nonprofit and grantmaker communities!

This is a can’t-miss two-day conversation on how to face our common challenges together. Register by October 17 to beat the late fee, and show up ready to learn, share and be inspired.


Women’s Foundation Honored for Responsive Philanthropy

September 7, 2012

MCF member Women’s Foundation of Minnesota will take home the award for Responsive Philanthropy at the 2012 Minnesota Nonprofit Awards on November 2.

Award sponsors Minnesota Council of Nonprofits and MAP for Nonprofits will recognize the foundation for its MN Girls Are Not for Sale campaign, a 5-year, $5 million effort to end the prostitution of girls.

From the award announcement:

Working closely with leaders of the community that have expertise on the sex trafficking of girls, the foundation has established a collaborative model in partnership with dedicated stakeholders from across the state — advocates, donors, elected officials, state agencies, corporations, law enforcement, judges, faith communities and many others — to create and enact a strategic plan and action with a clear message that Minnesota girls are not for sale.

Congratulations to Women’s Foundation for its innovative work! Other award winners will include:

  • Innovation: Avenues for Homeless Youth
  • Advocacy: OutFront Minnesota
  • Anti-Racism: Youth Performance Company
  • Excellence Award, Large Organization: Graywolf Press
  • Excellence Award, Small Organization: Project FINE

Read more about all the winners on the Minnesota Nonprofit Awards website.

And register now for the MCF/MCN Joint Annual Conference, November 1 and 2 in St. Paul, where the winners will be honored at a special awards luncheon.


Turning Diversity Data into Knowledge

August 8, 2012

Cross-posted from the Forum of Regional Associations of Grantmakers

These days, the subjects of diversity, inclusion and equity are top of mind among grantmakers and others in philanthropy. Sector conversations swirl around setting goals for grantmaking into diverse communities, building capacity among minority-led nonprofits, changing the composition of foundation boards, and much more.

At the recent annual conference of the Forum of Regional Associations of Grantmakers, a panel discussion homed in on the topic of diversity data – specifically, how to more effectively gather data about the demographics of foundation staff and boards. Joining me on the panel were: Lawrence T. McGill, PhD, Senior Vice President for Research, Foundation Center; Marissa Manlove, President & CEO, Indiana Grantmakers Alliance; and moderator Valerie Lies, President & CEO, Donors Forum.

Thanks to Council on Foundations surveys since the mid-1980s, we’ve been able to track and see positive trend lines for increasing diversity of foundation program officers. Yet, more and better data are needed to monitor progress on a full array of individual characteristics – gender, race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, disability status and more.

So how can these individual data be collected efficiently at the grantmaker level but also be readily and widely accessible for analysis and reporting across the country? Larry McGill stepped forward with a proposal: Instead of conducting annual surveys, create a database that foundations can update directly — with encouragement from regional associations of grantmakers, the Council on Foundations and Foundation Center.

In the era of “big data,” he envisions this database to be comprehensive – including not only demographic data, but also full grantmaker profiles and grants data coded by subject area and beneficiary, and much more. Plus, a related tool – dubbed a “population demographics wizard” – could mash up some 5,000 different variables from other data sources (such as the U.S. Census, nonprofits, businesses, etc.), sparking new knowledge for action.

During audience discussion, it was noted that the success of this or any diversity in philanthropy project relies on creating a compelling accompanying commentary about the value to the field and to our communities. At MCF, when someone asks “Why does diversity in philanthropy matter?,” we have an immediate reply: “Greater effectiveness, greater transparency, and greater purpose.” That’s why MCF has conducted diversity research, created a diversity framework to guide grantmakers in their work, and developed programming to heighten awareness and share best practices.

But we, like all regional grantmaking associations and our members, need regular reminders from the Foundation Center, the D5 coalition and others that it’s not just about collecting data. It’s about turning data into knowledge, and then acting on that knowledge. We look forward to embracing any new methodology that will lead to better information, greater knowledge and positive changes for diversity in philanthropy.

-Wendy Wehr, MCF v.p. of communications and information services


Vote Now for the 2012 Nonprofit Mission Awards

July 23, 2012

The nominations are in, the selection committee has made its picks, and the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits and MAP for Nonprofits have announced the finalists for the 2012 Nonprofit Mission Awards! These awards honor nonprofits that make outstanding contributions to Minnesota’s high quality of life.

Two MCF members are the finalists for the award for Responsive Philanthropy: Women’s Foundation of Minnesota and Northland Foundation. Their finalist profiles highlight Women’s Foundation’s of Minnesota’s work on the MN Girls Are Not For Sale campaign to help end the prostitution of Minnesota girls, and Northland Foundation’s Strengthening Communities Initiative to increase the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of nonprofit partners to address broad economic recovery issues.

Finalists in the other categories include:

  • Innovation: Avenues for Homeless Youth, Charities Review Council, and “Start to Finish” Pro Bono Expungement Project
  • Advocacy: Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid – St. Cloud Office, OutFront Minnesota, and The Advocates for Human Rights
  • Anti-Racism: Rochester Civic Theatre, World Without Genocide, and Youth Performance Company

Voting is open now through August 3. Learn more and pick your favorites at the Minnesota Nonprofit Awards website. And be sure you’re registered for MCF and MCN’s joint annual conference, Allied for Action, where the winners will be presented with their awards over lunch on November 2.

Congratulations to all the finalists!


Kate Mortenson Named 2012′s Engaged Philanthropist

July 16, 2012

Congratulations to Kate Mortenson, selected as the winner of this year’s Engaged Philanthropist Award. The award recognizes Minnesota’s most innovative and engaged philanthropists. The award is a joint effort of MCF members, Minnesota Community Foundation and Social Venture Partners Minnesota, to recognize the most innovative and effective engaged philanthropists.

As part of her recent philanthropic efforts, Mortenson created a community of support called “Friends of the Future” for Northside Achievement Zone (NAZ) to raise $100,000 annually from individuals and groups outside of north Minneapolis. Through this leadership role, she was instrumental in securing Governor Dayton’s support for NAZ to ultimately receive a federal Promise Neighborhood implementation grant of $28 million, one of only five awarded in the nation. She has brought her engagement and strategic skills to other Minnesota educational nonprofits, such as The Blake School, where she developed a new fundraising approach that tripled the number of annual fund gifts at the highest giving level.

Mortenson and her husband are committed to donating 10 percent of their annual income to the community. Her personal giving is complemented by the charitable work of The Mortenson Family Foundation (also an MCF member), which she and other family members help to guide. The Mortenson Family Foundation provides charitable grants and program-related investments that represent the family members’ interests in education, environment, human services and many other areas.

Mortenson will receive the award at SVP Minnesota’s Engaged Philanthropy Conference on August 23. Minnesota Community Foundation will also designate a $2,500 grant to the organization of her choice; she has selected the Northside Achievement Zone.


Guest Post: All of Us are Smarter than Any of Us

May 29, 2012

Today on the blog we welcome Marcia Avner, senior fellow at the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits and faculty, Masters in Advocacy and Political Leadership at University of Minnesota Duluth. She draws on her many years of experience in the sector to reflect on the value of convening, and why she’s excited for this year’s Grassroots & Groundwork conference held by MCF member Northwest Area Foundation.

“All of us are smarter than any of us.” When foundations and nonprofits come together to share stories, ideas, and insights, we build powerful strategies for change. One of the strengths of our sector is that our work is highly relational. We build and rely upon networks that connect us to emerging ideas, to the buzz about effective programs, to shared anticipation of pending opportunities, and to leaders who inspire us. As a consequence, our organizations encourage a variety of convenings to advance our work.

Sometimes frequent gatherings of small cohorts result in deep relationships, partnerships, and accomplishment. In the 1980s, we worked together to change food systems and farming practices with an intent to protect family farms, increase local assets, and sustain strong communities.

Other convenings help us turn crises to opportunities. When welfare reform threatened Minnesota’s programs, foundations, nonprofits, and the faith community convened quickly and dubbed their collaborative MC3: Minnesota Council on Foundations, Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, and Minnesota Council of Churches. MC3 tapped its networks to examine best practices for state-based responses. Gathering large groups of people who provide services, other thought leaders, and program participants, MC3 found ways to move people out of poverty, not just off welfare. A government and foundation partnership was formed, The Minnesota Futures Fund, and our state developed the soundest model for reform in the nation.

Our sector comes together to share intelligence and solve problems. We count on several key conferences to understand the state and direction of our work. These include the annual conferences of the Minnesota Council of Foundations and Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, as well as meetings of the national Council on Foundation’s affinity groups. Conferences put on by EARN, the Association of Social Workers, Human Rights Advocates, and the Minnesota Citizen for the Arts consistently provide platforms for effective, time- and money-saving models and tools. They all help us put names and faces to efforts that help our society address critical needs and build on-ramps to better futures.

For those intent on reducing poverty, the Northwest Area Foundation’s Grassroots and Groundwork has proven to be a thought provoking and highly interactive opportunity for learning, developing ideas, and connecting to funders and activists working to address equity and opportunity.

The 2012 conference, Working Together to Reduce Poverty and Build Prosperity, will be held June 6-8, at Mystic Lake Casino, Prior Lake, MN.  This event is one example of how we can become the best that we can be at making a difference in our communities. I hope to see you there. But understand, if you attend, your questions, criticisms, ideas and perspectives will be sought. In addition to breakout sessions, keynote speakers and workshops, the conference will feature facilitated conversations to tap the wisdom of the room. For information and to register, visit www.grassrootsandgroundwork.org.


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