MCF’s Beyond the Basics is a series of four live online trainings, each taking place 9:00 - 10:30 a.m. on June 24, June 25, July 8, and July 9.
Beyond the Basics offers a deep-dive into the history and skills needed to understand and engage in effective philanthropic practice. This training is particularly geared towards individuals new to the field or looking to refresh their knowledge and skills. Participants will reflect on their personal mission, identity and experience they bring to the field while exploring the broader system in which the work happens - the history of philanthropy and emerging trends in the field. Participants walk away with new skills around navigating power dynamics, advancing effective philanthropy and bringing equity into their work.
Registering for Beyond the Basics signs you up for all four sessions, listed below. More information will be available in your confirmation email, and we will reach out to you the week of the first session with more information.
June 24: Philanthropy 101: A Historical Context
Acknowledging the historical, social and cultural influences that have shaped modern philanthropy is necessary for responsible grantmaking. By examining the history of institutional giving in the U.S., reflecting on who we are, where we come from and the traditions that we follow, we can forge a stronger sector.
Featured speaker: Jennifer Ford Reedy, President, Bush Foundation
June 25: Critiques of Philanthropy and How to Respond
Honest self-examination is good practice for even the most senior level executive. This session aims to shed light on the present-day landscape of philanthropy.
Featured speakers: Joel Luedtke, Program Director, The Jay and Rose Phillips Family Foundation of Minnesota and Nafeesah Muhammad, English Teacher, Patrick Henry High School and member of The Jay & Rose Phillips Family Foundation of Minnesota’s Education Advisory Committee
July 8: Navigating Power and Social Identity in Philanthropy
Identity matters. Whether we are aware of it or not, it shows up in life, at work and in our leadership. Understanding the attributes and beliefs that make us different from others can powerfully shape power, opportunity and outcomes in the organizations and communities we serve.
Featured speaker: Camille Cyprian, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Minnesota Council on Foundations
July 9: Developing a Personal Strategy: Understanding Self, Role and System
Moment to moment, grant makers are being called on to make decisions. This requires effective strategy and a strong understanding of individual strengths. Personal strategies can help grant makers manage a series of near-term situations: conducting a difficult conversation with a grantee; presenting a risky proposal to the board; or giving critical feedback to a grant seeker.
Featured speaker: Bilal Alkatout, Senior Program Officer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota Foundation