Staff Stories

Last week, I shared the foundation’s commitment to doing what we can to accommodate immediate and emergent needs as our grantees adjust to the current crisis.

COVID-19 has illuminated inequalities that have existed for centuries, and we know that many of our communities will feel the impact of this crisis first, deepest, and for the longest time. The foundation remains grounded in our intention to contribute to strong, equitable institutions that will endure for the long-term.

To support grantees to adapt in this moment of uncertainty, we have identified actions we will proactively take to reduce our demands on them:

• Flexibility in grant deliverables. All grants may be considered unrestricted, general operating support and used however is most beneficial for our grantees and their constituencies.
• Flexibility in proposal and reporting deadlines. We are happy to adjust timelines and are considering ways to make proposals and reports less cumbersome and time-consuming.
• More efficient grant payments. Getting resources to our grantees will happen in a more effortless manner.
• Fewer requests for time. It is always our intention to be in grantee-led relationships. We honor this commitment by eliminating unnecessary meetings and requests — now and as we move though this crisis.
• Equity-focused responses with other funders. We are in conversation with other funders to encourage the widespread adoption of flexible, responsive practices and exploring collective actions that prioritize an equity lens.

As the situation evolves, we expect that our grantees’ needs will evolve too. We are available and want to hear from you — but we will wait until you reach out.

We have unending appreciation for the dedication our grantees have to doing what keeps our communities healthy, safe, and strong.

With gratitude,
Leticia Peguero
Vice President of Programs