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When I started at NCG early in 2015 I spent a lot of time listening. Like, a LOT. During close to 200 meetings in my first year, I sought to learn what was strong about our work, what members of our community wanted more (and less) of from NCG, and – perhaps most importantly – what folks needed to increase their impact and to remain connected to their sense of purpose, their agency, and their community of colleagues. The guidance I received was remarkable in its continuity – and in its vehemence.
Why does philanthropy change its focus and strategy so often, and on time frames that are unrealistic for minor victories let alone systemic change?
With more than 30 new state legislators taking office in Sacramento, a $25 billion budget shortfall projected by the Governor, and the looming threat of recession, 2023 presents significant changes and challenges for those of us in the charitable sector working to support vulnerable Californians throughout the state.
This is not the New Year’s message I was hoping to write. There was a moment this fall when things started feeling like they might just fall into place. We saw progress on the pandemic, and it felt like 2022 might herald a fresh beginning. But reality intervened, as it tends to do.
Since the start of the pandemic, we have observed several transitions among foundation CEOs. These transitions have come about in a number of different ways. A significant number of CEOs retired from their positions (and a few have been dragged back into the fold). Some transitions have occurred because of new (or renewed) foundation missions which necessitated changes in organizational structure. And others have come about due to the natural evolution of careers, interests, and opportunities. But whatever the case, understanding what these transitions are like for the leaders— current and former—is instructive to both the field and the larger community.
The California Criminal Justice Funders Group (CCJFG) is an established network of funders and donors that invest in a wide range of system change. We firmly believe that efforts to transform this country’s response to safety, justice, and accountability must be led by those individuals who have been directly impacted by systems of punishment themselves.
In order to make real changes in our communities, it is not enough to win elections. When progressive candidates get elected, philanthropy must provide them the support they need to govern effectively with the communities that helped elect them. Philanthropy already invests in increasing civic engagement and advocacy on social issues such as improving healthcare, education, and building a strong and inclusive economy for everyone.