Leslie Christian, Catalyst Fellow | What would the world look like if every foundation committed to using every one of its pennies to advancing its mission — even if it meant rearranging staff, giving up on “market returns" and coming to terms with the fact that nothing, including foundations, lives in perpetuity? This may seem like a radical premise, but it’s the direction philanthropy has already begun taking. Major foundations in the Northwest and nationwide are being designed to be time-limited and moving to “spend down” strategies. Tech billionaires are sharing their wealth through community foundations, LLCs and social enterprises rather than the more conventional family foundation model. And philanthropy isn’t just about making grants anymore — it’s about impact investments, advocacy and public policy work and being thoughtful about sustainability and place.

Our hearts are filled with sorrow as we grieve with the victims, survivors and families in Orlando, nearly all LGBTQ, Latino/a and young people. We are touched by the calls we've received from members and partners wanting to know how to help. We honor the many advocates, nonprofits and leaders who we know will help the families, and all of us, heal in the aftermath of such violence. Our colleagues at Florida Philanthropic Network have shared their recommendations for supporting victims, survivors and their families. In our own region, we are reminded of the shooting at Umpqua Community College last fall, and are grateful to Anne Kubisch of The Ford Family Foundation for sharing Roseburg's story of community resilience. Our six-state region represents America’s unique tapestry — urban and rural, young and old, indigenous and newly arrived, LGBTQ and straight. Sharing our different perspectives and experiences makes us stronger. Together, we remain committed to advancing philanthropy that supports vibrant, equitable and inclusive communities that honor our past, our people, our cultures — and creates a better future.