Inclusive Giving: Redefining Philanthropy for a Diverse World
The term ‘inclusive philanthropy’ has been seeping into conversations with increasing frequency lately. And it’s not just our conversations—it’s everywhere. We are finally starting to hear about more foundations around the country and world that are prioritizing inclusivity in their philanthropic efforts, considering it central to advancing their missions.
With this more holistic approach, the past year has been filled with headlines calling attention to just that. For example, the Borealis Philanthropy and Ford Foundation recently launched a $1 Million Disability Tech Fund to advance leadership of people with disabilities in tech innovation. Keanu Reeves and his partner Alexandra Grant have also made strides to make their Futureverse Foundation more inclusive. And the Walton Family Foundation Board Chair spoke in a candid conversation about the central role DEI plays in their philanthropic efforts. It appears that inclusivity with regard to philanthropy is everywhere.
What is Inclusive Philanthropy
For those not as familiar, inclusive philanthropy entails finding a community of support that shares passions and determination to make a positive change in the world. By adopting inclusive philanthropic practices, organizations can foster greater social impact, address systemic inequalities, and contribute to positive social change in a more equitable and sustainable manner.
While the act of giving is an individual decision, the collective power of like-minded individuals makes this act even more inspiring. At the same time, it fosters an environment where the value of donors is equal in determining outcomes regardless of the size of their contributions, their ethnicity, their gender, or their disability status. In a Chronicle of Philanthropy article, Yolanda F. Johnson, founder of Women of Color in Fundraising and Philanthropy, touched on inclusive philanthropy from a diversity perspective. She noted that improving DEI would require changes in both hiring and inclusion practices. In fact, she mentioned talking about inclusion, equity, and diversity, as opposed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The reason? She stated, “We put the inclusion first because if you put diversity front of mind, you just go ‘Oh, we need to get X number of people of color in here.’ But are you prepared to create an environment where a professional of color can thrive?”
In this way, and many others, inclusive philanthropy involves being approached in a manner that resonates authentically with an individual’s experiences, without disregarding their lived realities. Connections should not be solely based on specific, and often unyielding, factors. Although they may be relevant at times, they can create barriers to fostering a more inclusive culture. Providing potential donors with opportunities to support causes that align with their present identities, rather than simply trying to fit them into certain categories, is a crucial aspect of building a more inclusive philanthropic culture.
How Can Organizations Leverage Inclusive Philanthropy
The key is not merely creating a culture of inclusive philanthropy though. Once it is there, it’s about leveraging it to further benefit the organization. To do so, the organization must adopt strategies and practices that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within and throughout their philanthropic efforts. Foundationally, this includes broadening the definition of philanthropy by moving beyond the traditional notions focused solely on monetary donations. Further, it is recognizing and addressing any implicit biases that may influence decision-making within the organization. By establishing transparent and fair processes for grant-making and resource allocation, the organization can ensure that opportunities are equally accessible to all organizations and communities.
While inclusivity must start within the organization, it certainly doesn’t end there. There are three primary ways an organization can leverage inclusive philanthropy outside its doors:
- Engage and empower communities being served by including them in the decision-making process. Leaders can not only seek their input and listen to their needs, but also involve them in designing and implementing philanthropic initiatives that will impact them most. By empowering local organizations and leaders with resources, training, and support, they will drive change within their communities. This is where true inclusivity is founded—giving those impacted a seat at the table where the decisions are being made.
- Partner with other organizations that have expertise and deep connections within marginalized communities. Doing so will enhance the impact and sustainability of philanthropic efforts. This may involve targeting resources that address social and economic disparities, promoting access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, and advocating for the rights and well-being of marginalized communities.
- Share best practices with others. Leaders can foster a culture of learning and knowledge-sharing within the organization and the broader philanthropic community. They should share successes, challenges, and lessons learned from inclusive philanthropic efforts to inspire others and promote collective learning and advancement.
Through it all, the organization must measure their impact and hold themselves accountable by developing robust impact measurement frameworks. Assessing the effectiveness and outcomes of their philanthropic initiatives is imperative. Leaders should commit to regular monitoring of the organization’s progress toward its desired goals and objectives, and regularly evaluate whether the initiatives are achieving intended results. This cycle may take longer than is customary, but with increased education and connections, and a collective passion for change, inclusive impact will begin to move the needle.
At The Win Woman, we focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance strategic development and policies for organizations of all sizes and funding opportunities for nonprofits. We work with boards and C-Suite executives to help develop the right solutions for their specific situation in their specific industry. For more information, please contact us.
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