Building a Home for Donor Organizers

North Star Fund is a community foundation—emphasis on community. Our work requires a strong, growing and authentically connected community of donors. We bring donors more deeply into movements, so that they understand what movements are building and what it means to responsibly resource movements—and make a long-term commitment to that work. Throughout the year, we bring donors together to give and grow in community in different ways.

We kicked off 2023 with our annual Giving Plan Workshop—facilitated by North Star Fund’s Donor Organizer, Jillian White, and Development Director, Kofo Anifalaje—gathering online to start a new year of giving boldly and with intention. The workshop discussed how to create an individualized giving plan and provided tools to support accountability. Participants reflected on factors that shape our giving and envisioned what would be possible if our movements were fully funded.

In April 2023, we completed the sixth cohort of our Giving Project, facilitated by Jillian White and Kofo Anifalaje, with some sessions by Deirdre Judge. The Giving Project is a unique six-month training program that brings together New Yorkers from a wide range of backgrounds. Participants share stories and deepen their analysis of the impact of oppression; learn about grassroots fundraising and grantmaking through a collective
power lens; and, collaboratively raise money to support Black-led grassroots organizing. Part of the magic of this program is that it brings people together across class. All levels of giving combine for a greater impact.

In May 2023, North Star Fund staff joined the Neighborhood Funders Group (NFG) at their national convening to connect with peers in philanthropy and organizing. North Star Fund’s Hudson Valley Program Officer, Gabriela Quintanilla, facilitated a workshop for fellow funding organizations that explored ways philanthropy can be more responsive to grassroots movements. The workshop considered how to support grantees in having spaciousness to envision and build a different world (which includes rest!). Participants discussed the need for investment in infrastructure so that groups can plan for—and implement—structural changes needed for sustainability.

We have many long-time members of our donor community, and we’re always welcoming those who are newer to North Star Fund and interested in supporting grassroots organizing. Our community is a place to grow and connect with movements for justice.

Join us at one of our events this year to meet new friends and have a bigger impact through your giving.