It's the season for gratitude and reflection. But also, a day for taking stock. As we gather with loved ones, it's worth considering the subtle shifts happening beneath the surface of our communities. The connections that bind us, the acts of generosity that fuel positive change—these are the things that deserve our attention.

Ten years ago, nonprofits, the tireless champions of our communities, began to sense a change in the air—a moment of pause, a desire to understand the evolving landscape before taking the next step, a perfectly reasonable response to a world in constant flux.

This week, Stacy Palmer, CEO of The Chronicle of Philanthropy, sits down with Carrie to explore the evolution of this space. They explore the findings of the Generosity Commission, acknowledging the dip in traditional giving and volunteering while also recognizing the rise of new forms of engagement. The landscape of giving is changing, and that presents both challenges and opportunities.

Amidst this evolution, inspiring figures like Melinda Gates and MacKenzie Scott emerge as trailblazers, reshaping the philanthropic landscape with their bold and transformative giving. They shine a light on the often-overlooked, demonstrating that philanthropy can be a powerful catalyst for positive change, especially when it embraces innovation and challenges traditional norms.

How do we ensure that positive momentum continues? Stacy offers a balanced perspective. She celebrates the progress made while also encouraging us to remain vigilant and adaptable. The insights from 1989, when the Chronicle of Philanthropy first highlighted the need for philanthropy to embrace a multicultural America, still resonate today.

Carrie and Stacy explore the delicate balance between thoughtful planning and decisive action. They discuss the All In By April campaign, a compelling example of how accelerating philanthropic giving can empower positive change, particularly in support of democracy. This story of proactive engagement is a testament to the power of foresight and collaboration.

This week invites you to reflect on each of our own contributions to the story of generosity. Are we building meaningful connections or simply going through the motions? Are we embracing new approaches or clinging to outdated models? The answer, as Carrie and Stacy reveal, lies in the power of relationships, the courage to speak up, and the unwavering commitment to move missions forward together.

Links & Notes

• The Commons (from the Chronicle of Philanthropy)
• The Generosity Commission report
• Giving Tuesday
• Solutions Journalism Network
• All In By April campaign

• (00:00) - Welcome to Mission Forward