While trying times are inevitable, we believe they’re no match for the courage, caring and compassion of ordinary community members.
By David Brantz
Chair, Board of Trustees
It’s no secret that we’re living in a dynamic, often charged socio-political environment – and the Community Foundation is tuned in.
While trying times are inevitable, we believe they’re no match for the courage, caring and compassion of ordinary community members. Already, many of us have marched, signed petitions, and called on our lawmakers.
At your Community Foundation, we’re also doing our part to listen and respond to our community in uncertain times – in particular, our most vulnerable and underrepresented neighbors who may be experiencing increased aggressions.
We’ve always believed it’s our job to ignite action around civic engagement and advocacy efforts. Amidst a surge in activism since last year’s election, we’re paying even closer attention to issues of immigration and marginalization in Boulder County – and how to be an ally to those most directly affected by potential deportation, discrimination and other threats to gender, racial, ethnic and religious freedoms.
In a shifting philanthropic landscape, a sense of urgency underscores the impact of community foundations like ours that support programs and initiatives toward a stronger civil society – in part, through our responsive grantmaking, and through communicating, convening, and collaborating with others to address emerging needs of communities across Boulder County.
With your help, we’re continuing our steady support of local nonprofits on the front lines, including those working to safeguard immigrant and refugee families, as well as LGBTQ organizations protecting members of our community against hate and violence. Other ongoing giving opportunities at the Community Foundation – including Donor-Advised Funds – are gaining traction nationally, with a notable spike in DAFs.
At the same time, while foundations like ours have accomplished promising results in developing strong community leaders, we’ll continue to hone and refine our activities to keep pace with community trends. Indeed, the current climate demands even deeper conversations about values, civic responsibility and accountability – and we look forward to continuing to facilitate open exchanges toward greater understanding among all Boulder County residents.
For more than 25 years, the Community Foundation has been a community catalyst, responding to immediate needs and anticipating future challenges – today, our mission rings truer than ever. We remain committed to promoting inclusivity, and providing information, insight and leadership on current challenges and opportunities.
To do that, we’re working side by side with community-minded individuals and organizations like you, just as we always have. I hope you’ll join us, and make a difference locally!
Mark your calendar: March 7 is Advocacy Day at the Capitol.
