MCF Member Briefing: Polarization and Crisis or Cooperation and Problem-Solving

How are Foundations Responding to the Current Political Moment?

The Challenge for Philanthropy Today: Polarization and Crisis or Cooperation and Problem-Solving

Over the last decade, increasing polarization in politics and culture has made it difficult for civil society leaders to balance the diverse interests of their local communities. This challenge is especially pronounced for philanthropy, including community foundations that fund a wide range of groups across the social and political spectrum. Horizon Forum has spent the past three years helping foundations develop values-aligned policies to guide grantmaking and investment decisions. 

As tensions, uncertainty, and fears have risen in the current political context, the presenters will explore how foundations can promote healthy civic engagement and transform moments of crisis into opportunities for creative problem-solving. This webinar is part of Horizon Forum’s national learning series designed to help philanthropic leaders around the country develop effective strategies to navigate polarization and foster leadership in challenging times.

Key Considerations to Be Discussed

• Balancing the competing, polarized interests of stakeholder communities 
• Strategies for managing risks in grantmaking 
• Effective communication on grantmaking decisions 
• Avoiding alienation of donor groups while promoting core values 

Session Presenters

• Abbas Barzegar, Director, Horizon Forum
• R.T. Rybak, President and CEO, Minneapolis Foundation
• Jeremy Wells, Senior Vice President of Philanthropic Services, Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation

Session Details

This event is open to non-member grantmakers; to register, please send a request via email to Khin Oo, [email protected]. 

Log-in details will be provided in your confirmation email.

For additional session information, please reach out to Paul Masiarchin, [email protected].