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Funding the Arts Is Funding for Social Change
In a recent conversation, I found myself wrestling with a familiar question: How do we encourage funding for the arts during times of crisis, as people are struggling to meet basic needs like food, shelter, and physical and mental health? It’s a valid consideration. Just before the coronavirus hit, I questioned myself and my own... Read More
Grantmaking for Equity: Essential, Fundamental Practices
Advancing racial equity requires doing our own work as funders. All lean funders should embrace this set of fundamental practices. Some funders have begun. These actions complement a continual journey of learning about systemic racism. Exponent’s community can support and guide you along the way. Eliminate barriers to entry. Don’t impose minimum organizational size or... Read More
How We Catalyzed a Fellows Program to Meet Legal Services Needs During COVID-19
The headline of an April 27, 2020 article in the San Francisco Chronicle read: Coronavirus and the law: California suspends bar exam this summer Taking the bar exam is like childbirth. A grueling multi-day process with pain and trauma that you somehow forget on a day to day basis, but upon mention of the activity,... Read More
Standing With Grantees to Foster Transparency and Trust
One of the most valued Exponent Philanthropy member resources is the Foundation Operations and Management Report which comes from an annual survey of the membership. The survey covers diversity and inclusion, governance, grant making focuses, investment approaches, staff utilization and more. And reflecting a broad array of voices, missions, endeavors and histories linked by a... Read More
An Open Letter From Exponent Philanthropy Board Chair, Paul Spivey
Dear Exponent Philanthropy members, For the past 25 years, I have been involved in philanthropy as an executive, board member and donor. The intense racial strife over the past couple of weeks has compelled me to share the following personal and professional anecdotes as well as suggested solutions. Frustration, anger and fatigue are all vehemently... Read More
My Mind Is Confused. My Heart Is Heavy.
For several days, I have struggled with how to make sense of what is happening in this country. I’ve heard commentators—black and white—prognosticate on what we must do, while trying to explain what brought us to today. I have read words from my colleagues in the philanthropic field, calling for action and offering heartfelt directions... Read More
