How Class and Culture Impact Philanthropy

Former Rep. Gabby Giffords from Arizona and Louis D. Brown, a young African-American man growing up in Dorchester, Mass., were both shot. Gifford’s shooter was white, mentally ill and “acted alone.” Louis’ killer was young, black, and possibly involved with a gang.

We must address the social context that makes either shooting possible! Our workshop at next week’s Family Philanthropy Conference, “Unexamined Privilege: The Impact of Class and Culture on Philanthropy, will get the conversation started. Here are some questions to consider:

• How many of you think about the social determinants behind the issues your grantmaking address?
• How many of you focus your grantmaking at a macro level?
• What are the root cause questions that keep coming up as you think about engaging in effective philanthropy?

Our session will begin with the story of two donors who sought to understand the work of the organizations and communities they support. Very early in their journey, they discovered that effective philanthropy in the area of human services must empower the entire community. We invite you to hear their story and join us in that journey.

How many think you know how to incorporate social responsibility into your giving and find yourself having a “been there, done that” attitude?

We seek to support giving that actually addresses justice. The model helps “helpers” of many professions do their work more effectively.  It has worked well for those starting out and/or those who need support to get re-energized and re-engaged.

Based on a framework of healing and reconciliation, we will explore the role of structural racism, emancipatory consciousness, world view, and the intersection of analysis and action using four interlocking levels: personal, interpersonal, institutional, and cultural. We hope you will join us.

Valerie Batts, Ph.D. is executive director for VISIONS, INC.