How One Foundation Moved from Idea to Initiative

Shared from an August 16, 2021 blog on Exponent Philanthropy. The David and Lura Lovell Foundation focuses funding on changing systems by first identifying issues then identifying partners to ferret out root causes and develop plans before seeking grantees involved in the work.

The 7-step process is outlined in the blog and is something a foundation of any size or staffing can accomplish.

I have followed a similar process several times throughout my philanthropic career. This work offers fantastic opportunities for learning not only by funders but among the partners as well. There is power behind bringing people to the table and giving them a voice.

More good food for thought.

Photo by Joel Filipe@joelfilip

2021 - A Year of Change

Today, when I read this blog post on Exponent Philanthropy - Making a Little Go Far: How We Spark Economic Renewal in Our Rural Community I knew I had to share it as part of my Year of Change series. The post highlights the work of the William Stretesky Foundation which, in my opinion, is a breath of fresh air to traditional grantmaking.

The foundation is based in the northeastern corner of rural Colorado - Julesburg, Colorado which so happens to be the birthplace of my mother. It was formed almost 20 years ago from the estate of Mr. Stretesky that included over 11,000 acres of farmland. Grant dollars are generated through the ongoing leasing of this land to farmers.

So far, the foundation has awarded more than $7 million and is set to award $1 million yearly moving forward.

As in many rural communities, the area is struggling economically. As such, the foundation focuses on projects to enhance small businesses and nonprofits, historical preservation, and community improvement..

In the post, Kimberly Orth, executive director of the foundation highlights several projects she consideres their “most successful and popular.”

I encourage you to read the full post, but here is a teaser.

When was the last time you read of a foundation working with partners to develop a campaign focused on shopping local by allowing residents to buy $500 of local currency, called Bucks, at $450?

Or the Pay-It-Forward campaign where local businesses apply for utility credits in exchange for a small donation or item to be raffled through ticket sales? (Proceeds from the raffle benefit the local schools and nonprofits.)

Their COVID pivot was the 2020 Youth Corp campaign that employed 16 teenagers to paint curbs and buildings, pick up branches following storms, weed, help with story hours at the library, and more. A win-win for local teens and the community.

This post highlights creative thinking at its best. It is a reminder of the flexibility foundations have in awarding funding and of the impact of one man’s gift to his community. All of us can learn from Mr. Stretesky.

Photograph by Dan Meyers Dan Meyers @dmey503