Dear Friends,
Last week, over 700 nonprofit, philanthropic, business, and government leaders joined our Celebration of Philanthropy at Arena Stage. Because of the generosity of so many of you, the event raised a record-breaking $560,000 – proceeds that will help us expand charitable resources and ensure that equity, access, and opportunity are available to all who live in the region.
As our President and CEO, Bruce McNamer, said at the event: “Many across our region struggle to meet basic needs and achieve economic prosperity. The Community Foundation works to correct this imbalance – bringing together donors, nonprofits, and community leaders to address the most critical issues facing our community and create healthier neighborhoods today and for generations to come.”
Dr. Johnnetta Cole, director of the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, presented the 2017 Civic Spirit Award to Patty Stonesifer and Martha’s Table, on behalf of all of us at The Community Foundation. When accepting the award, Stonesifer shared her journey from growing up in a working class family to working at Microsoft, running the world’s largest charity, and serving as President and CEO of Martha’s Table. Referencing the African proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone, if you want to go far, go together,” Stonesifer invited guests to join together to pledge “a new level of advancing racial equity, a new level of learning, a new awareness of race and privilege, and then, together indeed, we will go far!” Watch our tribute video featuring Patty and her amazing team, and visit our Events page to see pictures of the event:
Bruce concluded the program saying, “The Community Foundation stands with you and all of our nonprofit partners in the room – and affirms our commitment to equity, racial justice, and an inclusive community that is vibrant, resilient, and prosperous for everyone.”
It is because of you that we are able to make this commitment to our community. We are so grateful to all of the incredibly generous friends who contributed to the evening’s success and have joined us in the fight to make our region stronger. Thank you for all you do.
— The Community Foundation Team