Funding Process
The Grunin Foundation remains a relational funder, providing financial support to grantees while also building and nurturing strong, collaborative relationships. We prioritize being out in community and we are always open to meeting organizations.
While we don’t require a formal application process, we recognize the importance of clarity in understanding how the foundation arrives at decisions and in the process for initiating and sustaining relationships. We understand each individual and organization is different so the steps below could vary depending on the conversation and the needs, but we wanted to provide some transparency on how to begin a funding relationship with us.
Meeting with the Grunin Foundation
If you feel your organization aligns with the Grunin Foundation’s funding priorities and outcome areas, you can book time with Heather Barberi, Executive Director. This first meeting will be an introductory meeting to learn more about you and your organization. Based on this time together, we will reach out with next steps which could mean:
Alignment Questions
Based on feedback, and as mentioned above, we know that we need to be clearer in our process and in how we make decisions. The funding questions provided for further conversation (if there is alignment), are not a test or meant to make organizations do extra work – it’s being transparent and clear so organizations can prepare in their own way. And it’s a way for us to get to know organizations and understand alignment. It’s also a way for us to make decisions and be transparent about it. We know we don’t have the funding for every request, and this will help us make the most equitable and transparent decisions with the funding we do have. This will be a casual conversation, not an application – so come as you are. Show up in the way that makes you most comfortable. We’re excited to meet you!
If you are looking to have a conversation about capacity building (outside of funding), you can book time with Vicki Fernandez, Director of Thriving Communities.
After a year of working in partnership with community and with guidance from our consulting partners, The Novalia Collective, we are excited to share with you the results of our strategic plan including:
Below you will find the Strategic Plan Executive Summary (which includes the information above), as well as slides and a recording from our info sessions, and ways to connect with us.
Our website will be updated to reflect our new strategic plan in stages in the next couple of weeks.
We are so excited and grateful to continue the journey with more clarity, collaboration, and community as we work towards an equitable, just, and vibrant Central Jersey Shore. We look forward to our continued partnership in community.
Please note: we are updating this section of our website and will be adding more information as it becomes available.
The Grunin Foundation has intentionally transitioned from traditional pillars of funding (e.g., arts, education, healthcare) to a more holistic focus on specific outcomes that collectively strive for an equitable, just, and vibrant Central Jersey Shore. We recognize the intricate interconnections involved in addressing the community’s most pervasive issues and needs, prompting a shift in our previous strategy. Below, find our six outcome focus areas for funding. As we update this page, we will accompany each focus area with a few illustrative examples. However, we know that the nonprofit community are the experts, and we are always open to learning about how organizations are operationalizing their work in these outcome areas.
We understand the importance of flexible funding to empower nonprofits to be more adaptable, innovative, and sustainable. Our goal moving forward is to provide more general operating support versus programmatic funding – putting trust in organizations to utilize dollars where they feel it is most needed. This type of funding enables organizations to navigate the complexities of the nonprofit landscape, respond to community needs, and achieve greater impact
We recognize that because of historical inequities, marginalized communities, including groups who have been excluded based on race, age, sexual orientation, disability, socioeconomic or immigration status, face specific challenges in the region and are disproportionately impacted. To support equitable outcomes in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, we value partnerships with organizations whose work positively impacts these communities.
OUTCOME AREAS
Increasing access to holistic wellbeing
Promoting holistic well-being involves addressing physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects of an individual’s health.
Igniting youth changemakers
Igniting youth changemakers is a crucial aspect of fostering positive societal change and building a better future. Communities can create an environment that not only ignites the passion of youth but also provides the necessary support and resources for them to become effective and sustainable changemakers.
Promoting economic opportunities and pathways
Promoting economic opportunities and pathways helps to foster individual and collective prosperity.
Reducing systemic barriers to self-determination and agency
Reducing systemic barriers to self-determination and agency is crucial for promoting individual empowerment and creating more equitable and inclusive societies. It requires a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach that involves individuals, communities, institutions, and policymakers working collaboratively.
Investing in and developing BIPOC leadership
Investing in and developing BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) leadership is crucial for fostering equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging and creating a more inclusive and representative leadership landscape.
Resourcing communities to center justice and belonging
Resourcing communities to center justice and belonging involves providing the necessary support, tools, and opportunities for communities to actively promote fairness, equity, and a sense of belonging.
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS
We continue to be a place-based funder with a direct focus on the Central Jersey Shore – specifically Ocean and Monmouth Counties. As a place-based funder we aim to create meaningful change by investing in the Central Jersey Shore, understanding its unique dynamics, and working collaboratively to address its most pressing challenges. This approach allows us to make deeper impact and emphasizes our sustained commitment for effective philanthropy at the Central Jersey Shore. While the majority of our funding, capacity building, and coalition building efforts are focused on the Central Jersey Shore, there are some initiatives the foundation participates in at more regional and state-wide levels that have impact in our geographical focus area.
WHAT WE DO NOT FUND
The Foundation grants to 501c3 nonprofit organizations or those that are fiscally sponsored by a 501c3. While we understand our funding priority outcome areas are intentionally broad in scope, there are some areas that the Foundation does not fund. These include:
The Grunin Foundation, in collaboration with Orville Morales, offers in-depth Pragmatic Activism Cohort opportunities for those who live, work, worship, or serve in Ocean and Monmouth Counties! The Cohort will allow for up to 30 members.
This program will teach nonprofits and businesses the importance of advocacy and how they can get involved. The cohort will be led by Orville Morales, who teaches Pragmatic Activism using a six-phase approach:
Why We Exist
We believe that we cannot change people we disagree with until we face them. We work with folks who consider themselves invested agents who care about their impact in the world and are willing to speak their minds through their presence at work, in their neighborhoods, and beyond.
Who We Are
We are a consulting firm whose purpose is to inspire people to see how their actions have an impact on others.
What We Do
Our goal is to help people and organizations maintain a long-term commitment towards the social good, ensuring you are part of the broader, more public dialogue around topics you care about and allow for nuance and complexity to conversations and debates.
Pragmatic Activism
A strategic approach to social change that allows for intentional and reasonable action that is sustainable over time.
If you concerned about any personal or professional barriers to participation that the Grunin Foundation may be able to help address, please contact Vicki at Vicki@GruninFoundation.org to discuss. Your response may help us orchestrate a more successful experience for you.
Phase 1: Where You Stand
We provide a pair of assessments to get a
sense of who you are, what you believe, and
explore the kinds of actions towards social
good you have done in the past or are willing
to move forward.
Phase 2: Tree of Influence
We facilitate a discussion to explore who
you can influence via public policy as an
advocate in your region. This workshop
includes a deep analysis of the various levels
of the government in the region and their
prevailing priorities of the day.
Phase 3: Other Voices in the Field
You are not alone in your region, so we
explore the other voices you must listen to
and consider when taking action. This
session includes exploring how these voices
advocate on behalf of issues important to
them.
Phase 4: Timing of Influence
Explore the timing of opportunities for
change in your region and identify the
action steps necessary to make the most of
that timing.
Phase 5: Public Engagement
We will facilitate a discussion to prepare
you to begin talking about your efforts and
develop action steps for you to get started
in your pragmatic activism.
Phase 6: Triage of
Engagement
This session is all about planning, executing,
and troubleshooting public engagement if
things go wrong. But, ultimately, this phase
is about putting it all together and
providing a road map that can protect your
journey from negative fallout.
Who is the Pragmatic Activism Cohort for?
The cohort will accept up to 30 individuals who live, work, worship, or serve in Ocean and Monmouth Counties, based on an application process.
When will the Pragmatic Activism Cohort take place?
The training will take place over three sessions – with attendance required.
Location (in-person with a hybrid option via Zoom):
In-person location to be announced soon but will be in the Monmouth/Ocean area.
Session Dates/Times: Dates will be announced when Cohorts are active.
Who will be leading the Pragmatic Activism Cohort?
Orville Morales – learn more here.
How do I apply to be part of the Pragmatic Activism Cohort?
We will be accepting applications on a rolling basis and will reach out to you ASAP once we have reviewed your information. Application links will be available when cohorts are active.
What if my application is not accepted into the cohort of 30?
We will be doing additional cohorts in the future and will put together a wait list based on applications.
Is there a fee to participate in the program?
Absolutely not! We are so grateful to those giving of their time to participate fully in the cohort. Those who are accepted into and participate in the program will receive a $500 Visa Gift Card* as an acknowledgement of their commitment.
Is there a way to learn more before I apply?
Yes! Details of a kick off event coming soon!
We’re looking forward to this next Pragmatic Activism Cohort, with more to come in the future!
*Important Note: Awards/Gifts/Stipends (cash and non-cash) that equal or exceed $600 per calendar year, are reportable to the IRS. This payment may be taxable. Please consult your tax advisor. We request all participants submit a W9 regardless of total compensation.
The Grunin Foundation, in collaboration with Orville Morales, is thrilled to offer our 3rd in-depth Pragmatic Activism Cohort for those who live, work, worship, or serve in Ocean and Monmouth Counties! The Cohort will allow for up to 30 members.
This program will teach nonprofits and businesses the importance of advocacy and how they can get involved. The cohort will be led by Orville Morales, who teaches Pragmatic Activism using a six-phase approach:
Why We Exist
We believe that we cannot change people we disagree with until we face them. We work with folks who consider themselves invested agents who care about their impact in the world and are willing to speak their minds through their presence at work, in their neighborhoods, and beyond.
Who We Are
We are a consulting firm whose purpose is to inspire people to see how their actions have an impact on others.
What We Do
Our goal is to help people and organizations maintain a long-term commitment towards the social good, ensuring you are part of the broader, more public dialogue around topics you care about and allow for nuance and complexity to conversations and debates.
Pragmatic Activism
A strategic approach to social change that allows for intentional and reasonable action that is sustainable over time.
If you concerned about any personal or professional barriers to participation that the Grunin Foundation may be able to help address, please contact Vicki at Vicki@GruninFoundation.org to discuss. Your response may help us orchestrate a more successful experience for you.
Thursday, September 28th, 9am to 3pm (Phase 1 & 2)
Phase 1: Where You Stand
We provide a pair of assessments to get a
sense of who you are, what you believe, and
explore the kinds of actions towards social
good you have done in the past or are willing
to move forward.
Phase 2: Tree of Influence
We facilitate a discussion to explore who
you can influence via public policy as an
advocate in your region. This workshop
includes a deep analysis of the various levels
of the government in the region and their
prevailing priorities of the day.
Thursday, October 26th, 9am to 3pm (Phase 3 & 4)
Phase 3: Other Voices in the Field
You are not alone in your region, so we
explore the other voices you must listen to
and consider when taking action. This
session includes exploring how these voices
advocate on behalf of issues important to
them.
Phase 4: Timing of Influence
Explore the timing of opportunities for
change in your region and identify the
action steps necessary to make the most of
that timing.
Thursday, November 30th, 9am to 3pm (Phase 5 & 6)
Phase 5: Public Engagement
We will facilitate a discussion to prepare
you to begin talking about your efforts and
develop action steps for you to get started
in your pragmatic activism.
Phase 6: Triage of
Engagement
This session is all about planning, executing,
and troubleshooting public engagement if
things go wrong. But, ultimately, this phase
is about putting it all together and
providing a road map that can protect your
journey from negative fallout.
Who is the Pragmatic Activism Cohort for?
The cohort will accept up to 30 individuals who live, work, worship, or serve in Ocean and Monmouth Counties, based on an application process.
When will the Pragmatic Activism Cohort take place?
The training will take place over three sessions – with attendance required.
Location (in-person with a hybrid option via Zoom):
In-person location to be announced soon but will be in the Monmouth/Ocean area.
Session Dates/Times: (PLEASE NOTE – even if you cannot make these dates, you can still apply now for consideration for future cohorts)
Thursday, September 28th, 9AM – 3PM
Thursday, October 26th, 9AM – 3PM
Thursday, November 30th, 9AM – 3PM
Breakfast & lunch will be provided at each session.
Who will be leading the Pragmatic Activism Cohort?
Orville Morales – learn more here.
How do I apply to be part of the Pragmatic Activism Cohort?
To apply to be a part of the cohort, please click here to complete this brief application.
We will be accepting applications on a rolling basis and will reach out to you ASAP once we have reviewed your information.
What if my application is not accepted into the cohort of 30?
We will be doing additional cohorts in the future and will put together a wait list based on applications this time around. If you are not in the fall 2023 cohort, we will be in communication about future opportunities.
Is there a fee to participate in the program?
Absolutely not! We are so grateful to those giving of their time to participate fully in the cohort. Those who are accepted into and participate in the program will receive a $500 Visa Gift Card* as an acknowledgement of their commitment.
Is there a way to learn more before I apply?
Yes! Details of a kick off event coming soon!
We’re looking forward to this next Pragmatic Activism Cohort, with more to come in the future!
*Important Note: Awards/Gifts/Stipends (cash and non-cash) that equal or exceed $600 per calendar year, are reportable to the IRS. This payment may be taxable. Please consult your tax advisor. We request all participants submit a W9 regardless of total compensation.
After a very successful Pragmatic Activism Cohort Pilot in 2022, the Grunin Foundation, in collaboration with The People’s Lobbyist, is thrilled to offer our 2nd in-depth Pragmatic Activism Cohort for those who live, work, worship, or serve in Ocean and Monmouth Counties! The Cohort will allow for up to 30 members.
This program will teach nonprofits and businesses the importance of advocacy and how they can get involved. The cohort will be led by The People’s Lobbyist®, Orville Morales, who teaches Pragmatic Activism using a six-phase approach:
Why We Exist
We believe that we cannot change people we disagree with until we face them. We work with folks who consider themselves invested agents who care about their impact in the world and are willing to speak their minds through their presence at work, in their neighborhoods, and beyond.
Who We Are
We are a consulting firm whose purpose is to inspire people to see how their actions have an impact on others.
What We Do
Our goal is to help people and organizations maintain a long-term commitment towards the social good, ensuring you are part of the broader, more public dialogue around topics you care about and allow for nuance and complexity to conversations and debates.
Pragmatic Activism
A strategic approach to social change that allows for intentional and reasonable action that is sustainable over time.
Wednesday, March 15th, 9am to 3pm (Phase 1 & 2)
Phase 1: Where You Stand
We provide a pair of assessments to get a
sense of who you are, what you believe, and
explore the kinds of actions towards social
good you have done in the past or are willing
to move forward.
Phase 2: Tree of Influence
We facilitate a discussion to explore who
you can influence via public policy as an
advocate in your region. This workshop
includes a deep analysis of the various levels
of the government in the region and their
prevailing priorities of the day.
Wednesday, April 12th, 9am to 3pm (Phase 3 & 4)
Phase 3: Other Voices in the Field
You are not alone in your region, so we
explore the other voices you must listen to
and consider when taking action. This
session includes exploring how these voices
advocate on behalf of issues important to
them.
Phase 4: Timing of Influence
Explore the timing of opportunities for
change in your region and identify the
action steps necessary to make the most of
that timing.
Wednesday, May 24th, 9am to 3pm (Phase 5 & 6)
Phase 5: Public Engagement
We will facilitate a discussion to prepare
you to begin talking about your efforts and
develop action steps for you to get started
in your pragmatic activism.
Phase 6: Triage of
Engagement
This session is all about planning, executing,
and troubleshooting public engagement if
things go wrong. But, ultimately, this phase
is about putting it all together and
providing a road map that can protect your
journey from negative fallout.
To learn more, visit: https://www.pragmatic-activism.com/
Who is the Pragmatic Activism Cohort for?
The cohort will accept up to 30 individuals who live, work, worship, or serve in Ocean and Monmouth Counties, based on an application process.
When will the Pragmatic Activism Cohort take place?
The training will take place over three sessions – with attendance required.
Location (in-person with a hybrid option via Zoom):
NJ City University @ Fort Monmouth
Squier Hall
283 Sherrill Avenue
Oceanport NJ, 07757
For directions, CLICK HERE
Session Dates/Times:
Wednesday, March 15th, 9AM – 3PM
Wednesday, April 12th, 9AM – 3PM
Wednesday, May 24th, 9AM – 3PM
Breakfast & lunch will be provided at each session.
Who will be leading the Pragmatic Activism Cohort?
Orville Morales, The People’s Lobbyist®
To learn more about Orville, CLICK HERE.
How do I apply to be part of the Pragmatic Activism Cohort?
To apply to be a part of the cohort, please click here to complete this brief application by Wednesday, March 8th.
Notifications to those accepted into the cohort will be made no later than Friday, March 10th.
What if my application is not accepted into the cohort of 30?
We will be doing additional cohorts in the future and will put together a wait list based on applications this time around. If you are not in the spring 2023 cohort, we will be in communication about future opportunities.
Is there a fee to participate in the program?
Absolutely not! We are so grateful to those giving of their time to participate in the cohort. Those who are accepted into and participate in the program will receive a $500 Visa Gift Card* as an acknowledgement of their commitment.
Is there a way to learn more before I apply?
Of course! On Wednesday, March 1st via Zoom we will be hosting a breakfast panel session from 11:30am to 1:00pm. For more information or to register, please CLICK HERE.
We’re looking forward to this next Pragmatic Activism Cohort, with more to come in the future!
*Important Note: Awards/Gifts/Stipends (cash and non-cash) that equal or exceed $600 per calendar year, are reportable to the IRS. This payment may be taxable. Please consult your tax advisor. we request all participants submit a W9 regardless of total compensation.
Empowering Youth Changemakers
The Empowering Youth Changemakers program was launched with 19 teens in attendance, under the direction of Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County. BGCM is collaborating with Teen Think Tank, Project Write Now, Trenton Circus Squad, RWJ Barnabas Health and Lead U, along with the Empowering Youth Changemakers Working Group members. Moving forward, BGCM is putting together a program calendar that will include dates, times and locations for future sessions and will have the partner agencies plugged in. They held their first session, “Teen Leadership” which introduced key leadership concepts to the participants. In addition, the teens voted on leadership positions for the group. The next session is scheduled for October 19th and the topic will be, “What is your passion?” More updates to come.
Amplifying BIPOC Leadership
We are continuing with planning and will share more information once the Amplifying BIPOC Leadership strategy is solidified.
Empowering Communities to Center Equity
This strategy will focus on advocacy for 2022-23. We have many partners in this work, including BolderAdvocacy, Council of New Jersey Grantmakers, New Jersey Center for Nonprofits and consultant, Orville Morales of The People’s Lobbyist®.
On September 8, we hosted a Let’s Talk About Advocacy Breakfast and Discussion and had a great turnout of Ocean and Monmouth County nonprofits and businesses who came to learn how they can get involved to create change in the community and the world. Orville Morales of The People’s Lobbyist® and Linda Czipo of New Jersey Center for Nonprofits spoke about the whys and hows of advocacy. Orville also talked about an exciting Pragmatic Activism Cohort opportunity presented by the Grunin Foundation in partnership with The People’s Lobbyist® beginning in September.
The Pilot Pragmatic Activism Cohort will accept 20 individuals from the Ocean and Monmouth County nonprofit and business community, who will work together through six phases of pragmatic activism which is a strategic approach to social change that allows for intentional and reasonable action that is sustainable over time. We will have more updates as the Cohort moves forward.
In the Fall of 2022, the Grunin Foundation in collaboration with The People’s Lobbyist, is offering an in-depth Pragmatic Activism Cohort for 20 Monmouth & Ocean County nonprofit/business members.
This program will teach nonprofits and businesses the importance of advocacy and how they can get involved. The cohort will be led by The People’s Lobbyist®, Orville Morales, who teaches Pragmatic Activism using a six-phase approach:
Why We Exist
We believe that we cannot change people we disagree with until we face them. We work with folks who consider themselves invested agents who care about their impact in the world and are willing to speak their minds through their presence at work, in their neighborhoods, and beyond.
Who We Are
We are a consulting firm whose purpose is to inspire people to see how their actions have an impact on others.
What We Do
Our goal is to help people and organizations maintain a long-term commitment towards the social good, ensuring you are part of the broader, more public dialogue around topics you care about and allow for nuance and complexity to conversations and debates.
Pragmatic Activism
A strategic approach to social change that allows for intentional and reasonable action that is sustainable over time.
Tuesday, October 25th, 8AM – 1PM (Phase 1 & 2)
Phase 1: Where You Stand
We provide a pair of assessments to get a
sense of who you are, what you believe, and
explore the kinds of actions towards social
good you have done in the past or are willing
to move forward.
Phase 2: Tree of Influence
We facilitate a discussion to explore who
you can influence via public policy as an
advocate in your region. This workshop
includes a deep analysis of the various levels
of the government in the region and their
prevailing priorities of the day.
Tuesday, November 29th, 8AM – 1PM (Phase 3 & 4)
Phase 3: Other Voices in the Field
You are not alone in your region, so we
explore the other voices you must listen to
and consider when taking action. This
session includes exploring how these voices
advocate on behalf of issues important to
them.
Phase 4: Timing of Influence
Explore the timing of opportunities for
change in your region and identify the
action steps necessary to make the most of
that timing.
Tuesday, December 13th, 8AM – 1PM (Phase 5 & 6)
Phase 5: Public Engagement
We will facilitate a discussion to prepare
you to begin talking about your efforts and
develop action steps for you to get started
in your pragmatic activism.
Phase 6: Triage of
Engagement
This session is all about planning, executing,
and troubleshooting public engagement if
things go wrong. But, ultimately, this phase
is about putting it all together and
providing a road map that can protect your
journey from negative fallout.
To learn more, visit: https://www.peopleslobbyistnj.com/
Who is the Pragmatic Activism Cohort for?
The cohort will accept 20 individuals from nonprofit organizations and businesses in Monmouth or Ocean Counties, based on an application process.
When will the Pragmatic Activism Cohort take place?
The training will take place over three sessions – with attendance required.
Location:
NJ City University @ Fort Monmouth
Squier Hall
283 Sherrill Avenue
Oceanport NJ, 07757
For directions, CLICK HERE
Session Dates/Times:
Tuesday, October 25th, 8AM – 1PM
Tuesday, November 29th, 8AM – 1PM
Tuesday, December 13th, 8AM – 1PM
Breakfast & lunch will be provided at each session.
*Please note: If circumstances arise and you are unable to make a session in person, we will make zoom available.
Who will be leading the Pragmatic Activism Cohort?
Orville Morales, The People’s Lobbyist®
To learn more about Orville, CLICK HERE.
In addition, Linda Czipo of the New Jersey Center of Nonprofits, will be a guest presenter during the cohort.
How do I apply to be part of the Pragmatic Activism Cohort?
To apply to be a part of the cohort, please click here to complete this brief application by Tuesday, September 13th.
Notifications to those accepted into the first cohort will be made no later than Friday, September 16th.
What if my application is not accepted into the first pilot of 20?
We will be doing additional cohorts in the future and will put together a wait list based on applications this time around. If you are not in the first cohort, we will be in communication about future opportunities.
Is there a fee to participate in the program?
Absolutely not! We are so grateful to those giving of their time to participate in the cohort. Those who participate in the program will receive a $500 Visa Gift Card* as an acknowledgement of their commitment.
Is there a way to learn more before I apply?
Of course! On Thursday, September 8th at NJ City University @ Fort Monmouth, we will be hosting a breakfast panel session from 8:30AM – 10:30AM. For more information or to register, please CLICK HERE.
We’re looking forward to this first Pragmatic Activism Cohort, with more to come in the future!
*Important Note: Awards/Gifts/Stipends (cash and non-cash) that equal or exceed $600 per calendar year, are reportable to the IRS. This payment may be taxable. Please consult your tax advisor. W9 Form will be required for Awards/Gifts/Stipends that equal or exceed a cumulative total of $600 in a calendar year.
Our Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging (EDIB) Working Groups have begun. You can learn more about how we started these groups and the overall strategy by visiting our EDI Working Group webpage.
Each of the three groups (Empowering Youth Changemakers, Amplifying Diverse Leadership, Empowering Communities that Center Equity) met for the first time in September. The first meeting started with introductions of each member. We then gave an overview of the Grunin Foundation and how we got to this point in our EDI journey.
Before we jumped into the work, we wanted everyone to get to know each other a little better. These groups will be working together over the next several months so building trust and comfort is important. We broke the full team down into smaller groups and discussed the personal journeys in our careers as well as challenges we are facing. Group members shared stories, tips, resources and even a few tears of joy and inspiration.
Each table then discussed what their specific equity pillar (Empowering Youth Changemakers, Amplifying Diverse Leadership, Empowering Communities that Center Equity) meant to them. After the group members had a chance to discuss at their tables, they were able to share with the full room. One person at each table took notes which we compiled and sent back out to everyone so we can continuing building off these ideas at each meeting. We were also recommended a book from one of our group members – “The Sum of Us” by Heather McGhee – which the Grunin Foundation will supply to all EDI working group members who are interested in reading it.
We ended the first meeting with some great questions and suggestions that will guide this journey. One specific suggestion to note is that we should specifically call out what we are trying to do such as “Amplifying BIPOC Leaderships” vs. “Amplifying Diverse Leadership.” We are taking all of this feedback (or “feedforward” as we learned from our friends at Idea2Form) and will be revising our strategies and language as we get deeper into this work.
We’ll start the next sessions where we left off – really thinking about and discussing what each pillar means…
Once we have these important conversations, we will get into the mapping exercise. This will help us gain a better understanding of the work that is currently happening at the Central Jersey Shore (Monmouth & Ocean Counties) in the realm of each of the above EDIB pillars. We will try to capture as many programs/activities as possible happening at the local level and work to understand where there are gaps.
We are looking forward to our future meetings and making more progress in helping to break down barriers, uplift marginalized voices, celebrate diversity, and champion a more just and equitable society.
Stay tuned for more EDIB Working Group updates coming soon!