Tony Cohn

Despite the fact that collaborative funds are being talked about as the next big thing in philanthropy, there's still a lot we don't know about their value-add to philanthropy. Often the discussion centers on how they enhance the experience and impact of donors. This new piece from Jennifer Stout draws attention to the importance of examining the experiences of grantees who receive funding from collaborative funds, as compared to their experiences with "direct funders". For The Freedom Fund, our understanding of how grantee partners perceive us largely comes from continuously seeking feedback (more on that here: https://lnkd.in/eEa6u7F6). We also see a big part of our role as identifying and building relationships with groups who have tremendous potential for deep, sustainable impact but who more traditional funders might overlook. As Jen says, we need more research across the field to draw broader conclusions and make the case for why collaborative funds, when structured appropriately, can fill gaps and do things differently.

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🏗️Sustainable Development Spotlight! Last week, I kicked off a six-week series spotlighting practitioners and community leaders working in equitable and sustainable development. These testimonials, gathered by the International Society for Urban Health (ISUH) team, feature inspiring stories from around the globe of changemakers working to build healthy spaces, improve infrastructure, and drive health equity. Check out our latest spotlight–it might even spark an idea for your community! Vibrant public spaces are essential for ensuring the social, physical, and economic wellbeing of residents. When designed as attractive, welcoming gathering places for people of all ages, these spaces can foster social interactions, support the local economy, improve resident health, and more. Drawing on examples from Bogotá, Colombia, Gil (Guillermo) Penalosa Penalosa of 8 80 Cities shares about the power of building equitable and inclusive spaces, like parks and public facilities, and how these spaces can transform urban areas. Learn more about equitable city planning and explore other stories on community-led health equity initiatives: https://lnkd.in/eZsuT9bf

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"Trust-based philanthropy" has been a term that has come to mean a lot of different things over the years. My colleagues Kathleen Fleming, Jeff Bradach, Preeta Nayak, and Zachary Slobig unpack this notion of trust, which is often interpreted as an all-or-nothing binary... and therefore can make it feel inaccessible or “non-strategic” for many donors. Our fear is that this chills, rather than encourages, broader philanthropic experimentation with #powershifting (a topic I care deeply about!). This essay and series of responses is more of a provocation (than answers) to help think through: 🕹️ What explains philanthropic behaviors that remain #stuck in a paradigm of #control? 🧠 What #beliefs and #assumptions can donors examine to build greater trust with grantees? The hope is that this encourages more #curiosity, #vulnerability, and openness to greater #experimentation. Feel free to comment and engage!

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I was pleased to see The Chronicle of Philanthropy's Ben Gose new piece which nicely captures the state of rural philanthropy. Among other things, they point to an incredibly important and dramatically underutilized strategic role for philanthropy in relation to rural: support rural communities and organizations with all aspects of the grant-seeking process to access the enormous amounts of federal funding that are available yet largely do not reach rural communities. It doesn't have to be to figure out -- see, Resource Rural (Ann Lichter) and The Just Transition Fund (Heidi Binko), and it's an important and strategic way to address one of the structural mechanisms behind where dollars flow (and don’t) in our nation. Other highlights that stood out to me: only 75 of philanthropy goes to rural places, which is just 1/3 to half the philanthropic support one would expect based on population; one of the constants in rural America is above average poverty, with 86% of counties with persistent poverty being rural; and there are several new philanthropic collaborations (several of which, I'm proud to say RWJF supports) that simply didn’t exist 6-8 years ago. It’s well worth the quick read, and brings much more nuance, richness than my quick take-aways.

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💥Here’s my somewhat #HotTake on the role, influence, and impact of well-intended #megadonors on the health-focused nonprofit landscape and the work we need to have funded. What do you think about the big dollars being dropped? Oh… and I’m over the whole, “We don’t accept unsolicited proposals.” So basically you have to know someone or you have to be known to get “in.” When your head is down and in the work, how’s that supposed to work? I put a few ideas in this piece. https://lnkd.in/enbvmnvN

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As a foundation focused on change-making and grantmaking, McKnight Foundation seek to deploy our assets, resources, and leadership to advance our highest expression of mission, which is when equity and climate intersect, clearly aimed at creating the future that we desire and deserve. One way we do this is by using our investment capital for good. Appreciate the shoutout in this piece published by the World Economic Forum. https://lnkd.in/gUt2nD8P

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How can foundations and grantmakers be more intentional about sharing power with communities directly affected by systemic racism and health inequity? A new @RWJF case study provides a behind-the-scenes look at our $5 million participatory grantmaking initiative, Building Local Alignment. Review how we worked to cede decision making control to outside experts and what lessons have emerged for our foundation and other funders as we seek to advance equity. Check it out today! #CommunityPower #EquityInAction #ParticipatoryGrantmaking https://bit.ly/3YdySRr

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Whether it's for Reports and storytelling or for internal management and strategy, companies are finding the call to measure impact grows ever stronger. This invaluable resource from Pledge 1% provides not only a 101 on the foundations of Social Impact Measurement, but also common metrics in Corporate Social Impact reporting, as well advice from others doing the work. If you haven't already, I strongly recommend! #socialimpact #impactreporting #CSR

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✨Open Philantropy ❓Sure. But what is it really about?   ✅ Open philanthropy is a model where foundations and donors operate with a high degree of transparency, sharing information about funding decisions, strategies, and outcomes.   It’s a great way to address power imbalances between funders and fundees. 🤔 But how does open philanthropy work in practice and why should you and your foundation adopt this practice?   Find out more in KV Philanthropy Consulting’s latest article. 👇   #Philanthropists #Foundations #FondsdeDotation #OpenPhilanthropy #Grantmaking #Power #Imbalance #Charities #Associations

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Have thought a lot about the pace of change over the years--and for me, often the question is 'level of zoom' on both time horizon and level of impact. ['time and pressure' from the Shawshank Redemption] Was great to be approached by Eric Chen as he shared this important report from The Bridgespan Group on the pace and level of change--and how 'small steps' can be transformative. The Bridgespan team has its eye on transformative change, so it it really interesting to review this report on how we think and plan for big change in different ways. When I think of League of Women Voters and partner work as 'core civic infrastructure'-- I see the small steps as leading to the transformation we want to see. Congrats to Eric, Marc Solomon and the other authors for putting this out there. #Bridgespan #socialimpact

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🌍 Centering Community Voices in Climate Work In our pursuit of a sustainable future, it’s crucial that the voices of those most impacted by climate change aren’t just included but lead the way. Drawing from Black feminist theory, which emphasizes intersectionality and the importance of lived experiences, here are some best practices: 1. Prioritize Lived Experiences: Ensure that strategies are informed by those who experience the direct impact of climate change. Their insights are vital for creating effective and just solutions.    2. Foster Collaborative Leadership: Embrace shared leadership models that distribute power and amplify marginalized voices within decision-making processes. 3. Commit to Intersectionality: Recognize the interconnectedness of race, gender, and class in environmental issues. Tailor solutions that address these overlapping challenges. 4. Build Long-Term Relationships: Engage with communities beyond project timelines. Building trust and lasting partnerships ensures that climate initiatives are truly community-led. 5. Amplify Voices, Don’t Replace Them: Use your platform to elevate the voices of those who are often silenced or ignored, rather than speaking for them. How are you incorporating these principles in your climate work? Let’s exchange ideas and support one another in centering the communities that matter most. #ClimateAction #EnvironmentalJustice #BlackFeministTheory #CommunityLeadership #Sustainability #Intersectionality

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I wholeheartedly agree with this approach for #philanthropy in this moment where even tax-exempt status for #nonprofits are under threat. We need to: - Provide even more support, financial and otherwise - Take risks and act courageously together - Avoid crisis fatigue, take care of ourselves and each other "Grant makers don’t need an 18-month strategic planning process to distribute dollars in uncertain times. If your organization is clear about its values, start there." Beautiful alignment with my values of courage, stewardship, and care. https://lnkd.in/ghZarYdC

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I am filled with joy and deeply encouraged to see the promise of climate and environmental justice action with today's youth movements. The youth are our future and many of them are already leaders in their communities, striving for long-lasting change. I have had the honor and privilege to meet and learn from so many young climate leaders who are doing the work today to ensure a better tomorrow. Check out the FRI Newsletter and learn about how so many youth have become engaged in climate action: https://lnkd.in/esG8MDQh

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Join me, MOFP Executive Director Kate MacKenzie & fantastic pioneers on food, climate, and regional policy for a live event during #ClimateWeekNYC We'll talk about how cities are utilizing their purchasing power to align with climate and sustainability goals and the importance of regional colaboration. Three panels with government officials, development organizations, advocates, and researchers doing pioneering work. Sign up now: https://lnkd.in/gZJn8sie Date: September 24, 2024 Sessions: ⭕ “Think Locally, Act Regionally”: NYC’s Regional Approach to Local Food Policy This panel will spotlight how New York City and State are strategically collaborating with regional partners to support a sustainable, healthful, and resilient food system. Moderator: Michael Hurwitz, CFP Project Speakers: Michelle Hinchey, NY State Senate, Kate MacKenzie, NYC Mayor’s Office of Food Policy, Rohit Aggarwala (NYC Dept of Environmental Protection and NYC's Chief Climate Officer), @LaurenWilliams, NYS Dept of Agriculture and Markets ⭕ “The Research-Policy Integration / Feedback Loop” The goals of this session are to: 1) Understand ways in which researchers and decision makers can work together more effectively; 2) Improve coordination across researchers and disciplines to support NYC’s food policy-making; and 3) Discuss what we know about the ability of food policies to meet NYC’s climate goals and where gaps remain. Moderator: Milagros de Hoz, NYC Mayor’s office Speakers: Becca Jablonski, Cornell University, Jessica Fanzo, Columbia University’s Climate School, Craig Willingham, City University of New York, Elsie Moore, Cornell University ⭕ Understanding the Role of City Food Policy at a Global Level How can lessons from regional success be translated across continents? What are unique assets in different parts of the world that can inform and benefit other cities and regions? While every region has different priorities, this panel will bring together learnings, challenges, and principles for success from representatives across Africa, the United States, Europe, and Latin America. Keynote speaker and moderator: Corinna Hawkes, FAO Speakers: Leticia Campos Bardi, State of Bahia, Brazil, Betina Bergmann Madsen Madsen, City of Copenhagen, Denmark, Luana F. Joppert Swensson Swensson FAO, Wawira Njiru, Food4Education Co-hosted by The City Food Policy Project, The Rockefeller Foundation Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research, NYC Office of the Mayor RTI International Colorado State University, Glynwood Center for Regional Food and Farming, and Cornell Dyson School of Applied Economics & Management.

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I’ve been thinking about this a lot: focus on strategy, even in impact. Impact organizations and businesses need to stay focused on strategy, too. Amid the noise of donor expectations and program demands, it’s easy to lose sight of the mission. That’s when strategy risks becoming reactive instead of serving as a clear roadmap to achieve your goals. Every organization is unique, with its own goals, challenges, and mission. Staying aligned in the face of constant change requires a thoughtful approach. So, how do you keep your impact goals front and center? Here are some principles I’ve found essential for building a strategy that actually works: Clarity over complexity → The simpler the strategy, the clearer the execution. Be specific with goals → Vague goals lead to vague results. Define what success looks like for your impact and how you’ll measure it. Flexibility is key → External conditions—like funding, policy changes, or community needs—shift. Your strategy must allow room for adaptation without losing sight of the mission. Long-term vision, short-term execution → Keep your eye on the long-term impact, but break it down into actionable, measurable steps. Review and refine regularly → In the fast-changing impact landscape, set regular check-ins to ensure you’re on course—or ready to pivot if needed. Strategy isn’t a one-time thing. It’s a continuous process of refining, aligning with your mission, and moving forward.

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The Hidden Cost of Doubt in Fundraising In the world of fundraising, constant questioning of expertise doesn’t just erode confidence—it can lead to wasted time and billions in lost revenue for organizations. This challenge disproportionately impacts underrepresented groups and highlights a critical justice issue within the profession. Check out this article written for Moceanic Fundraising by Jeff Brooks offering some ways to successfully keep your best work going in the face of doubter. shttps://lnkd.in/eRWT9exj #Fundraising #Leadership #DiversityInNonprofits

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Surgeon General Vivek Murthy talks about the need for a "whole-of-society approach" to advancing social connection. We've tried to heed that call in our work at Einhorn Collaborative, supporting a broader range of efforts that engage actors across sectors. That includes: Projects like Team Up to enlist large national civic organizations with a presence in local communities to help people build connection across difference through service. Research groups like Building H to measure the impact of products on consumers’ health and urge companies to do better to improve social connection and other health outcomes. Initiatives like Human Connections AI to bring together social connection experts with technologists to puzzle through how AI companions can be designed to enhance and not degrade human relationships. Another project that has helped us explore a facet of the whole-of-society approach is the Connective Tissue Framework, which puts forward a range of recommendations for how government – especially at the local level – can create the structural conditions and everyday opportunities for people to experience healthy connection. I've learned a lot from Sam Pressler, lead author of Connective Tissue. In this piece, I asked Sam to share more about the story behind the framework and a few highlights. https://lnkd.in/esayJU3b

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