The Art of Community-Centered Grantmaking

"The Art of Community-Centered Grantmaking" is a comprehensive guidebook that equips social impact professionals with insights and information to effectively foster inclusive and impactful grantmaking initiatives. This e-book explores the values and characteristics of community-centered grantmaking. It shares foundational grantmaking principles and activities and offers ideas for the reader on building community-centered principles into the infrastructure and foundation of grantmaking processes and activities.

Are you currently working in philanthropy or considering a career in the sector? Do you want to deepen your understanding of grantmaking practices, especially from a community-centered approach? This e-book offers practical insights and recommendations to help you navigate the science and art of grantmaking that truly makes a difference in the lives of individuals and communities. Written by an experienced professional who has helped to deploy millions of dollars in grant funding, this guide covers essential topics such as the importance of lived experience in decision-making, historical context on community-centered giving efforts, and the principles of solidarity, trust, mutuality, and love that underpin effective grantmaking. Learn about examples of successful community-centered grantmaking initiatives and how you can integrate these principles into your institutional grantmaking processes. Discover the fundamental components of a grantmaking program, from gathering information to establishing partnerships and providing ongoing support. Whether you are a newcomer to the field or a seasoned professional, this e-book will inspire you to reflect on your practices, gain new insights, and engage in grantmaking that truly honors the communities you serve. Dive into the world of community-centered grantmaking and join the movement towards more impactful and meaningful philanthropic work.

Leah C. Taylor is a social impact practitioner, writer, and entrepreneur born and raised in New Orleans, LA. She is the founder of Copper + Tin Co., a company established in 2017 to empower social entrepreneurs and organizations to create lasting positive social change within their communities. A commitment and love of community, equity, and advocacy drives Leah's work. Over 15 years, Leah has employed an innovative and creative project management approach to initiating, managing, and designing an array of initiatives that have uplifted and supported communities with a dedication to advancing equity and social change at the individual and systemic levels. She passionately amplifies the voices and narratives of underrepresented individuals and communities, unlocking their potential. Leah earned her Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Howard University. She pursued graduate studies in educational leadership, focusing on international and comparative education at George Washington University in Washington, DC. As a New Orleans native, she embraces her culture and roots and finds solace in spending quality time in movement, outdoors, with loved ones and exploring her creative passions.