Philanthropy has always excelled when it listens, learns, and evolves to meet the needs of the communities it serves. In recent years, lean funders have increasingly recognized that racial equity is not an optional add-on to their work; it is central to their mission regardless of the focus area. Exponent Philanthropy's 2025 publication, “Racial Equity in Lean Foundations: Staying the Course Toward Inclusive Philanthropy,” delves into how foundations are incorporating racial equity into their work to drive better decisions, achieve more equitable outcomes, and amplify their philanthropic impact.

Recently, The Associated, in partnership with The Elijah Cummings Youth Program, Associated Black Charities, and the Baltimore Jewish Council, launched Baltimore’s inaugural cohor

My 25-year-old son told me that I should channel my inner “2008 Obama” as his generation wants and needs to focus on “hope.”As life would have it, at this moment, I am actually extremely hopeful. 

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.