A Message of Support
In just my second week as President and CEO of the Independence Foundation, we have begun hearing from grantee partners about their concerns stemming from the actions of the new presidential administration. We get it. We understand that, in times of crisis, simply getting through each day can be a challenge. Recent developments in Washington have added a layer of uncertainty, to say the least, and we recognize the destabilizing effect these changes may have on your work and your communities. The fear and anxiety you are experiencing are real and valid.
I am writing to reaffirm the Foundation’s steadfast commitment to help create an equitable, healthy, and vibrant Philadelphia region. We remain committed to our values of diversity, equity, and humanity, trust and mutual respect, intellectual humility, and leadership beyond grantmaking. We know that our success and impact are inextricably tied to yours.
In a moment where it may feel as though your efforts are undervalued, particularly on a national level, please remember that your work matters deeply. There are people relying on all of us to look out for them, especially in this moment. Your continued dedication is vital, and we are grateful for the significant impact you have on the lives of those most in need in the Philadelphia region. At a time when community is as important as ever, your organization is an essential part of what helps our communities thrive.
Crisis often brings a sense of heightened urgency, which can lead to reactionary responses. Stepping back from that place of urgency is sometimes a luxury not all can afford. But dedicating time to step back and view the broader picture, especially in conversation with others who share our values, can provide clarity and perspective. In these times, it’s important to remember you are not alone. Many others are also trying to figure out how to navigate this rapidly changing terrain.
The Independence Foundation has always believed in the power of bringing people together. When we connect, we exchange ideas, learn from each other, and build stronger community bonds. While our funding priorities are set for the immediate future during our leadership transition, we want to offer support in ways beyond the grant. To that end, we are happy to open our doors if coming together in community seems potentially helpful to you. Assuming there are enough folks who are interested, we will handle the logistics of convening, including whether the meeting is in person or virtual. We also would be honored to facilitate that discussion. And, of course, this would be an invitation, without obligation. We are here to listen, so if a one-on-one conversation is what you prefer, we are happy to make that happen.
As I transition into this new role, I am looking forward to continuing the Foundation’s legacy of gathering and learning together. This is only the first invitation of many to come. I look forward to meeting those of you I do not yet know, and reconnecting with those I do. Together, we can meet the challenges of this moment and continue to build a region that promotes well-being, provides equal access to services, values justice, and appreciates the importance of the arts. Please be in touch and let us know how we can help.
If you are interested in the Foundation facilitating a convening of our grantees to discuss how we can best meet this present moment, kindly respond here.
With gratitude and in solidarity,
Reggie Shuford, President & CEO