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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Innovators‘Friendship Houses’ Build Stronger Community Ties
Community 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. -
Innovators
A Push to Get Grants That Pay the Full Cost of Doing Good
The Full Cost Project brings nonprofit leaders and grant makers together to learn and have frank discussions about the money needed to get results. -
Innovators
Grace and a ‘Safe Space’ for Dialogue Help Minneapolis Confront Racial Inequity
Chanda 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. -
Innovators
The Link Between Poverty and Birth Control — and a Novel Solution
Mark Edwards made the connection between economic mobility and unplanned pregnancies by listening to stories of people struggling financially. -
Innovators
Humor as a Tool to Change the Nonprofit World
Vu Le challenges the status quo, both in his nonprofit blog, Nonprofit AF, and as executive director of the Rainier Valley Corps. -
Innovators
Many Ways to Breathe Life Into Chicago’s South Side
Emmanuel Pratt’s work combines urban farming, construction, aquaponics, and the arts. -
Innovators
Trust in Grantees, Not Command and Control
John 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. -
Innovators
Connecting Arts and Education to Help People Climb Out of Poverty
Veteran nonprofit leader Ellen Baxter champions the notion of bringing creativity and access to quality education to people living in low-income housing.
