5. Create learning and connection opportunities

“The convenings that I attended through that grant were really good. The process and the agenda design were focused on authentic relationships, and so we got to know each other and learn from each other in a real way.” (Quinta Seward, Safe Passages, Oakland) u Provide convening opportunities for grantees, community leaders, and partners that are culturally grounded, and that provide opportunities for authentic engagement. Focus on creating and/or deepening relationships and sharing learning. u Fund learning within grants -- within organizations, within local systems, in regions and trans-locally across regions. u Provide opportunities for grantees to slow down.

The needs are so great, and the pressures so high, that to take a step back from the work feels almost impossible. And yet, we know that the power of learning from each other, and creating relationships of mutual support, can be some of the most meaningful work that we can do. As grantmakers, you have the power to build these types of spaces for grantees. While doing this, of course, we must be aware of the demands that are included in attending a convening.

“Food banks need the time/opportunity to slow down for long enough to have the conversation as to what it would look like to not need so much food distributed.” (Chad Morrison, Mountaineer Food Bank) u Engage participants as a part of the design to ensure that their needs will be met and the demands will not be too high. u Share failed practices and learnings. u Bring faith leaders together similarly to how we bring nonprofit leaders together.