The Center for Effective Philanthropy will use its 2020 report, Policy Influence: What Foundations are Doing and Why, and its August 2020 blog series, Insights in Their Own Words to help funders explore the unique role of philanthropy as a stakeholder in public policy change, especially at the state/local levels. Opportunities for engagement to advance equity and broader systems change and policy reform abound, whether through grantmaking or in collaboration with other funders or educating communities and policymakers on how good and bad policy impacts people and communities. The session will feature practical tips/suggestions for funders to engage in policy work and will gain a greater understanding of advocacy as a strategic tool to advance equity and systems change
• Scott Moyer, President, Jacob and Valeria Langeloth Foundation
• Susan K. Thomas, President, Melville Charitable Trust
• Naomi Orensten, Director of Research, Center for Effective Philanthropy (moderator)