How do you measure the growth of the human spirit and the empowerment of formerly isolated and frightened communities? What numbers can quantify this, when so much of the work is relational and transformational, rather than transactional? How do you flip the dynamic so that communities can set their own processes and agendas on the issues that matter most to them, rather than dictating those initiatives from the funding side? After years of working with brutally oppressed ethnic groups in Myanmar, I am learning a tremendous amount about grassroots organizing infrastructure as Marguerite Casey Foundation's program fellow through Philanthropy Northwest's Momentum Fellowship. Similar to what I experienced in southeast Asia, grassroots organizations in rural America are seriously underfunded, yet staffed by some of the most committed and courageous people I’ve met.

My life, the work I do and the work of Pride Foundation will be forever changed by last month’s shooting at Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida that resulted in the devastating loss of 49 lives. This act of violence has instilled fear across LGBTQ communities, especially among people of color, affirming that we are unable to live openly and genuinely in the places that we had considered safe. Through all these challenges and heartbreak, I’ve found myself reflecting on the daily acts of inspiration that fuel my work. I am inspired by the strength and compassion of my colleagues at Pride Foundation, who continue to remind me what it looks like to show up and be seen. I am inspired by the courageous and tenacious LGBTQ community in Oregon. I am inspired by my peers in Philanthropy Northwest's Momentum Fellowship, for their support and leadership, and fierce and unwavering commitment to equity. I am inspired by the resilience of our LGBTQ community — that we will respond with love and continue to build bridges across difference.

Successful workplace teams thrive on diverse personality styles. Groups that include people with a variety of temperaments and approaches invite each of us to ask for what we need and offer what we can. Different styles in the workplace balance and challenge our own thinking and approach, sparking creativity and personal growth. We also learn that relationships are as crucial to success as plans and deadlines. Dreamers and designers are grounded by those who create new structures, who are in turn are balanced by those who execute consistently. Like roll, pitch and yaw, we rely on all three dimensions for philanthropy’s dreams to take flight. Appreciating what each one-third brings to the table is essential for maintaining the trust and faith we need to gracefully make it through turbulence, while offering a place of comfort and optimism.