Our people and relationships are central to how we work.

Our people and relationships are central to how we work. They shape strategy, deepen accountability, and move resources with care — advancing justice not in isolation, but through trust, collaboration, and a commitment to shared learning.

Terner Labs

NCF’s People & Relationships are the foundation of our impact.

At NCF, we see our people and relationships as one of our greatest assets. Our work is powered by a team and network deeply rooted in values of equity, accountability, and collaboration. By listening, learning, and showing up in authentic partnership, we seek to contribute to solutions.

Staff

Our staff brings deep expertise, lived experience, and community connection to our work. Through cross-departmental “Solutions Teams,” aligned to each of our REEJ issue areas, they work collaboratively to set goals, guide investments, and advance justice with shared purpose and accountability.

Board

NCF’s board brings governance and guidance grounded in justice. As thought partners and stewards, they reflect our values and lead with courage, accountability, and integrity — advancing our share vision rooted in equity and community-centered change.

Peers

NCF learns alongside peer funders and field leaders who are reimagining what philanthropy can be. Through dialogue, critique, transparency, and shared learning, our peers help sharpen our thinking and expand what’s possible. This work is not ours alone.

Partners

From social entrepreneurs to local advocates, our partners are leading the way toward justice. We learn from their expertise, move resources in support of their visions, and work to ensure they have the visibility and support needed to sustain long-term impact

Communities

We are accountable to the communities we work with and those closest to the issues. They help shape our strategies, challenge our assumptions, and guide our values in action. We strive to honor their leadership and support conditions for their power to grow.