In these uncertain times, our role at GNOFN has never been more clear: To listen to what our communities in Greater New Orleans need, so they can inform our collective philanthropy and the philanthropic efforts of our member organizations.
In doing so, we increase our collective impact on the local nonprofits that address those community needs. Our deep connection to local nonprofits keeps our lens focused on our efforts to build a healthy, equitable, and brighter future for the Greater New Orleans area.
We organize this critical work through the GNOFN Action Tables, convenings, and other opportunities to share needs and ideas between the community and our members. In 2024, GNOFN is focused on delivering this core value through more robust collective learning and collaborative grantmaking opportunities. Here’s how we’re doing it:
- Strengthen GNOFN Action Tables: The GNOFN Action Tables are where the key work happens. In 2024, members and facilitators will lead discussions and make recommendations for grant-making across these topics: Climate Justice, Criminal Justice, Equitable Development, Health, Black Men & Boys, and Education. Each year, every GNOFN member can choose which tables to participate in to develop their knowledge and pursue innovative collective investment strategies.
- Create convenings for collaboration: The spring and fall GNOFN Convenings are opportunities to gather and learn from each other and community experts. Twice a year, we will come together to discuss community needs, policy shifts, funding imperatives, lessons learned, and more.
- Uplift community voices: We commit to amplifying community voices by collaborating with our members and partners to establish resources and procedures that ensure the community's input is central to shaping GNOFN's perspective, priorities, and funding imperatives.
I believe firmly that what's happening now in Louisiana and across the country defies the core tenets of equity and justice and can set the course for the next 20 years. I am eager to leverage your expertise, community learnings, and GNOFN’s strategic investments to co-create the future we want to see in the Greater New Orleans area and beyond.
- Alicia Oliver
Managing Director, GNOFN
