We introduced members to the basics, trends and hot topics in current US philanthropy and foundations. Environmental grant makers shared social justice perspectives in local grant making. At our discovery forum, participants experienced the challenge of selecting grantees through small group discussions.

We formed five study groups of members to learn more about local challenges and bright spots related to our five focus areas. These groups presented findings at our Discovery Forum. In addition, Chris Grumm led the group in an exploration of ways women give; using the Wiser Giving tools and presenting ideas related to how women use power and influence. Learn what we learned when we explored local realities re arts, education, environment, family/human services, health and wellness.

We learned about the different ways nonprofits and other community-based initiatives tackle the gaps in our society through direct services, investing in people, and effecting systems change. Chris Grumm helped us explore how we individually and collectively prioritize areas to invest in.