"Indian Givers: Formalizing Centuries of Philanthropy"
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About the Publication “Diversity in Action: Strategies with Impact”
This is the third monograph in a series of publications on diversity and inclusion made possible through generous support from the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, a long-time supporter of increasing racial equity in society.
This monograph features foundation CEO and trustee reflections on the impact of a broad array of diversity and inclusiveness efforts. They address many of the issues foundation leaders face every day including how to ensure that your grant resources have the most impact possible. The authors have identified diversity and inclusion as important tools in advancing their organizational missions and program goals. Their strategies range from institutional issues such as board development and staffing to community outreach and redefining grantmaking success.
As the field of philanthropy continues to identify new ways to fulfill donor intent and to meet grantee and community needs, diversity and inclusion have become very important assets for many foundations and grantmakers. By highlighting the work of colleagues who are making progress in advancing meaningful social change, we hope to encourage others to continue to improve their voluntary efforts as well.
In addition to the practices of colleagues from within our sector, we can also look to other sectors such as business and government. These two sectors are arguably ahead of philanthropy today in the diversification and inclusion of its workforce. As we seek to be leaders of innovation, and as we continue our commitment to serving the common good, it is important that we continue to improve inclusive practices within our sector.
Although positioning your foundation for greater impact amidst our current economic uncertainty is challenging, our nation’s economy and the global marketplace will rebound. Now is an opportune time to consider how to bring many diverse voices and perspectives to the table to advance your work as we continue to set high expectations toward:
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recruiting the best and brightest talent who possess deep and specific knowledge about
the communities you seek to serve; -
growing internal talent and the inclusion of next generation voices; and
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improving organizational effectiveness throughout every facet of your grantmaking and
operations.
Furthermore, we applaud those featured here and the work of others who help to advance the field with persistence and commitment, and who have the generosity of spirit to share their successes and challenges with their colleagues.
Melissa A. Berman
President & CEO
Rockefeller Philanthropy
Steve Gunderson
President & CEO
Council on Foundations
Michael Litz
President & CEO
Forum of Regional Advisors Associations of Grantmakers
