The Declaration of Independence, written 245 years ago, inspired a revolution that helped birth a nation. The power of the Declaration’s “self-evident” truths also inspired global movements for human rights and democracy that remain powerful today, by declaring that all “are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” As we emerge from a tumultuous year—of pandemic, racial strife, and party polarization—it is worth returning to these fundamental truths, and to reflect on how they might help us heal and rebuild our incredibly diverse nation. This 4th of July weekend, a group of funders, thinkers, creators, and community leaders are launching the New Declaration campaign, which invites every community to join in reflection and creative expression. Our goal is to strengthen the foundations of our nation in advance of the Declaration’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
Maryland Philanthropy Network seeks to grow and support our members capacity to engage in public policy.
No matter what mission your organization and your members are committed to, we’re confident that more people standing up for your mission can help make the difference.
As we work to advance racial equity in philanthropy, four practices can help us find and stay with our learning edge—the boundaries of our comfort zones and competencies where changes are truly transformative and freeing.
As Americans buckle down for at least another month of social distancing and sheltering in place, more than 200 U.S.
The 2020 Fund to Advance Impact was launched to enhance Maryland Philanthropy Network’s visibility and accessibility, support the organization's move to new office space, and expand the ways in which the organization supports the evolving needs and aspirations of our statewide membership enhancing the engagement and impact of Maryland's philanthropic community. We're pleased to share the 2020 Fund to Advance Impact Report below and to express our deep gratitude to all those who contributed and made the Fund a success.
Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski Jr.
Within my first couple weeks of starting college, my Junior Advisor (Williams College’s student equivalent of a dorm parent) gathered a dozen of my “entry” mates for our Welcoming Williams session, which I now recognize was my first ever formal di
The Baltimore Workforce Funders Collaborative (BWFC) at Maryland Philanthropy Network is thrilled to launch its new strategic and operating framework. This document sets forth a new vision, mission, and set of values. It recognizes the rich history of the BWFC dating back to 2006 and then sets forth a new set of strategic principles, pillars, and tactics for the future. This framework also lays out a plan for how the Collaborative is structured to operate.
Maryland Philanthropy Network's Strategic Frame was a labor of love comprising the work of our board and staff and the feedback of the dynamic community of funders that makes MPN possible. As a membership organization, we rely on our members not just for the vibrancy they bring to our community, but also to hold us accountable to the strategy we set forth. We encourage you to read through the entire Strategic Frame including our updated mission, vision, and north star.
On November 21st, the Greater Washington Community Foundation announced the launch of Thrive Prince George’s, a two-year, $4 million guaranteed-income pilot that seeks to provide greater economic stability and mobility for familie
This new national research report from the Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy, Colmena-Consulting, and Philanthropy Together explores the transformative impact of collective giving on philanthropy. The report underscores collective giving groups’ role in reshaping philanthropic practices, fostering social connections, and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities.
According to national data from the Annie E.
Racial equity is crucial to effective philanthropy, and lean foundations—those with few or no staff—are uniquely positioned to make a significant impact. Exponent Philanthropy's 2024 publication, “Racial Equity in Lean Foundations: The Lean Funder’s Equity Journey,” delves into how these foundations are incorporating racial equity into their work to drive better decisions, achieve more equitable outcomes, and amplify their philanthropic impact.
The Columbia Association (CA) and the Community Foundation of Howard County (CFHoCo) are proud to announce a new partnership to support the Howard County community through a significant grant initiative. This collaboration underscores the commitment of both organizations to promoting social welfare and addressing the needs of residents. Under the terms of the agreement, CA will provide CFHoCo with a grant of $125,000 to be distributed during the Community Foundation’s open Community Grants Program this year.