Latest News at NCG

Why does philanthropy change its focus and strategy so often, and on time frames that are unrealistic for minor victories let alone systemic change?

Placing blame for unsheltered homelessness on the people who experience it isn’t new, but recent policies are ensuring those same people see the repercussions. On June 28th, the US Supreme Court ruled against Gloria Johnson, a resident of Grants Pass, Oregon, who sued the city for repeatedly arresting and fining her for sleeping in public space when she had nowhere else to go.

There are few communities that haven’t been impacted by homelessness, and while jurisdictions grapple with possible resolutions, we know that criminalizing unhoused people is not the solution to this growing problem. The real solution lies in addressing the root causes of poverty and homelessness, implementing a strategy to increase the production and preservation of affordable housing units, including extremely low income and no income housing, and protecting tenants so that they can maintain stable housing and keep from slipping into homelessness. 

As a part of the Membership team, Molly sustains NCG’s membership – from welcoming new members, managing the systems that support engagement, to strategically building a dynamic membership experience. 

As funders and concerned community members, we have the ability – and the responsibility – to direct more resources to local organizations that are fortifying our democracy from the ground up.

When the team conceptualized the theme for the 2024 Annual Conference, Imagine & Act, we knew there was potential for it to be a momentous gathering. The conference experience began to fall into place with plans to inspire action, stretch the thinking, and sharpen the practices of attendees. What we couldn’t predict when we built this space, is how it would be filled by all of you.

Miguel asks: “Why do y’all think so many foundations are unwilling to give out more than the minimum payout? How can we convince larger foundations to give more than what is legally required?” 

Dear What is The Role of Philanthropy in Supporting Power-Building, I’m so glad you asked this question! We know that cutting checks alone won’t realize justice. At the San Francisco Foundation, we define power-building as "the strategic act of shifting power away from historically oppressive systems and towards a new center of gravity that advances authentic democracy, redistribution, and reparation.”