Earlier this month, five of our six team members attended the Philanthropy Southeast Conference, a powerful three-day event filled with connection, learning, and inspiration. We had the opportunity to connect with colleagues and discuss timely topics like communication, AI, and new strategies to amplify our impact. The experience was grounding and energizing, renewing us for the work ahead. 

One of the most impactful takeaways was the reminder that, in philanthropy, we can’t talk about “community” as if it’s separate from us. We are the community we work for and fund. This means that when our community struggles, we struggle. When our community thrives, we thrive. There is no “us” and “them”—we are one. 

This perspective calls us to stand alongside our partners, listen deeply, and build trust through shared commitment and well-being. We are excited to embrace this approach and ensure our work reflects this unity and our dedication to creating lasting, positive change.