Philanthropy For Our Time
"...lasting and meaningful change only happens when people come together for a shared purpose, when they deliberate together, and when they act together, even when the future seems unknowable and the road uncertain."
- Marshall Ganz, Author, People, Power, Change: Organizing for Democratic Renewal
While the nonprofit sector is currently facing existential threats, foundations are grappling with how they can show up as reliable and trustworthy partners. It’s understood that philanthropy cannot possibly fill the gaps created by the structural changes occurring at the federal level, but the questions surrounding philanthropy's role and the impact of philanthropy's actions or inactions at this moment are critical. If foundations are to equip and partner with nonprofits and communities to mobilize with clarity and courage, what questions must be asked, and what adaptations must be made?
Join your Philanthropy New York community in person for a half-day of learning in service to action.
You will hear from talented thinkers and strategists who will help us make sense of how philanthropy needs to evolve our practices to meet this moment. Prepare to connect deeply with your sector colleagues through:
- peer exchanges,
- inspirational PhilTalks, and
- skill-building workshops.
Agenda
1:00 pm: Business Meeting
Join us for the Annual Business Meeting of the Philanthropy New York membership. We will review the organization’s work in 2024 and vote to appoint our new Directors. This meeting kicks off a half-day conference of inspiring talks and workshops to help you navigate these challenging times with fortitude and purpose.
2:00 pm: PhilTalk - Purpose and Practice for a New Era
- Dimple Abichandani, Author, A New Era of Philanthropy
- Kathryn O’Neal Dunham (in conversation), Chief Executive Officer, Philanthropy New York
In an era of overlapping crises, philanthropy must evolve—not just in practice, but in purpose. How can funders move beyond outdated models to meet this moment with courage, accountability, and impact? Our PhilTalker will explore how philanthropy can move from reinforcing the status quo to transforming systems, shifting power, and redistributing wealth. Through real-world examples, she will highlight bold governance and grantmaking practices that challenge entrenched power dynamics and help build a more just future.
3:00 - 4:30 pm: Concurrent Breakout Sessions
You will have the option to attend one of the three concurrent breakout sessions.
Session 1: The Imperative of Adaptation
- Linda Lausell Bryant, Director, Adaptive Leadership in Human Services Institute, NYU Silver School of Social Work
- Marc Manashil, Adjunct Assistant Professor, NYU Silver School of Social Work
Uncertain environments require a renewed commitment to innovation and creativity. In today’s shifting landscape, we must ask critical questions about what areas of our work are serving us well, what work no longer meets our needs, and where we should spend energy on new ideas and solutions. Regardless of your role, you have the power and influence to drive change. This breakout will equip you to identify what you can let go of in order to be responsive and adaptive to the current moment.
Session 2: Strategic Clarity: Aligning Purpose and Efforts
- Jara Dean-Coffey, CEO and Founder, jdcPARTNERSHIPS
In the best of times, plans have a limited lifespan. But when context shifts dramatically, how do we stay clear enough to make choices with discernment? Navigating complexity and embracing new possibilities require interrogating our assumptions and asking new questions about ourselves and our endeavors. This session invites participants to move beyond the tactical and make explicit the perspectives and positions that animate our work as funders. Hone your understanding of how you might move within the ecosystem with whom and in what ways. With clarity, become more flexible and versatile in service of your purpose.
Session 3: Navigating Risk with Courage
- Laura Abel, Senior Policy Counsel, Lawyers Alliance for New York
In an era of increasing federal scrutiny, foundations must be prepared to navigate risk in order to act with courage. Led by experienced nonprofit legal experts, this breakout session will help funders cut through the confusion caused by recent federal actions and get clear on the legal parameters in which they operate.
4:30 pm: Closing Invitation: Celebrating the Power of "We"
- Marlon Williams, Executive Vice President of Public Policy and Collaboration, Philanthropy New York
In times of chaos and challenge, it’s our connections - the relationships we build and the communities we cultivate - that provide the resilience and inspiration needed to move forward. This closing session is a moment for reflection and connection, a chance to reignite our collective spirit and remind ourselves of the strength we find in solidarity.
5:00 pm: Cocktail Hour
How to Register
Members: Login and click the Register Now (no fee).
The Annual Meeting is open to PNY members and invited guests only. Registration is required by May 12th, and an RSVP is needed for in-person attendance.
Important Event Details
- Limited Seating: Main room seating is first-come, first-served. Overflow rooms will be available.
- Security protocols:
- Bag screening and ID check required per Ford Foundation policies
- Photo ID must match the registration name
- Allow extra time for security screening
For questions or eligibility details, contact register@philanthropynewyork.org.
2025 Annual Meeting Sponsors
