Panel Discussion – Foundations & Policy Influence: Current Practice & Where We Go From Here

Foundations’ engagement in public policy has contributed to many advances in society. Yet philanthropy has a unique opportunity – and, as some funders see it, an obligation – to step boldly into the policy arena and advocate for policy changes that address systemic racism, advance equity and justice, fuel democracy, elevate unheard voices, and hold government to account.

Featuring findings from CEP’s recent report, Policy Influence: What Foundations Are Doing and Why and insights about the newfound urgency of policy influence in CEP’s newest research report, Foundations Respond to Crisis, this interactive discussion will explore the state of practice, the need for policy/advocacy, and will surface opportunities for deeper, more effective funder policy engagement. Attendees will gain a greater understanding of policy/advocacy as a strategic tool for advancing their mission, together with insight and practical suggestions from peer funders – whose work is deeply grounded in policy/advocacy – to help them more effectively engage in the policy arena.

Speakers: 

Paul Beaudet
Executive Director
Wilburforce Foundation

Danette Howard
Senior Vice President & Chief Policy Officer
Lumina Foundation

Naomi Orensten
Director, Research
The Center for Effective Philanthropy

Ted Wang
US Program Director
Unbound Philanthropy

Jarrett Tomás Barrios
SVP of Strategic Community and Programmatic Initiatives
California Community Foundation