John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation
Creativity abounds in the nonprofit world. Every day dedicated leaders question the accepted way of doing things and argue there has to be a better approach. They make bold, unorthodox connections between problems and pioneer cutting-edge solutions. Not afraid to go against the grain, these trailblazers sometimes turn to the past for inspiration to build a new future.
It isn’t easy to be ahead of the curve. People often struggle to understand their ideas. But mavericks keep fighting, even when it’s a struggle to rally grant makers and donors.
This month, we celebrate nonprofit and foundation leaders who are forging a new path for the common good. We hope their courage and ingenuity inspire you in the vital work that you do.
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InnovatorsCommunity Renewal International works to connect residents to improve life in blighted neighborhoods. The group has helped reduce crime rates, but attracting money to expand is a struggle. -
InnovatorsThe Full Cost Project brings nonprofit leaders and grant makers together to learn and have frank discussions about the money needed to get results.
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InnovatorsChanda Smith Baker runs a series of events that bring residents together to discuss difficult issues like police brutality, white supremacy, and the criminal-justice system.
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InnovatorsMark Edwards made the connection between economic mobility and unplanned pregnancies by listening to stories of people struggling financially.
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InnovatorsVu Le challenges the status quo, both in his nonprofit blog, Nonprofit AF, and as executive director of the Rainier Valley Corps.
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InnovatorsEmmanuel Pratt’s work combines urban farming, construction, aquaponics, and the arts.
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InnovatorsJohn Esterle and Pia Infante champion an approach to grant making that give grantees more power in decision making. A growing number of foundations are taking notice.
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InnovatorsVeteran nonprofit leader Ellen Baxter champions the notion of bringing creativity and access to quality education to people living in low-income housing.
