Philanthropic organizations and foundations seek to solve some of today’s most challenging and complex societal issues. These challenges are multifaceted and often systemic. As we seek to solve these challenges and provide support to the communities we serve, we must think about the individuals that sit at the decision-making table.
One of the main roles of a board member is to fundraise; however, beyond fundraising, board members must provide strategic oversight and direction. By incorporating individuals from diverse backgrounds, boards develop innovative solutions to complex problems while accurately reflecting the communities they serve.
Current State of Diversity
In Leading by Example, a project of the Coalition of Community Foundations for Youth and California Tomorrow, they highlight diversity as it now stands in the United States:
- The percentage of the US population made up of racial and ethnic minority groups increased from 16% to 31% over the past 30 years.
- The percentage of the US population born in another country increased from 4.7% to 11% over the same time frame.
The report goes on to mention that according to the US Census Bureau by 2050, the US will not have an ethnic group that is the majority.
The Importance of Board Diversity
As our population continues to diversify, foundations and nonprofits must take into consideration the unique needs and differences of these various groups. To further embed the importance of diversity within a foundation, leadership must seek individuals from diverse backgrounds to fulfill board positions.
Three Reasons why Diversity on Foundation Boards Matters
1. Diverse minds think differently and solve problems better.
Imagine a board that consists of individuals of the same gender, age, educational background, and race. Does it seem likely that these individuals would evaluate problems the same way? Now imagine a board member that belongs to an ethnic minority in this region on the very same board. This individual would likely understand the issues or challenges that individuals may face within this community and provide innovative ideas and solutions.
2. Diverse boards better reflect the community.
By incorporating individuals from diverse backgrounds on your board, you more clearly reflect the community you serve. This reflection will allow you to make decisions in the best interest of your community members. Furthermore, your commitment to diversity at an executive level will instill a sense of trust within your community.
3. Diverse board members provide access to your entire community base.
Individuals from diverse backgrounds will provide your foundation with access and insight into new community groups. You will benefit from their unique insight and understanding while accessing a new community group to educate and empower.
After you understand the importance of diversity on your board, you must take steps to incorporate individuals from diverse backgrounds on your board. You must consciously and consistently work to incorporate individuals from diverse backgrounds throughout your work.
Three Steps to Take Today to Incorporate Diversity within your Foundation
1. Write a diversity and inclusion statement and include this statement on your website and other external communications.
Beyond a statement, make sure you practice what you preach and instill these practices within your entire staff.
2. Attend events in your community to find qualified board members.
The best way to engage with your community is to attend events, lectures, and conferences in which your community members participate. You may meet individuals you do not typically network with who may be great additions to your board. One such event is the Creative Mornings series. These monthly meetups are for members of the creative world. You may find a great addition to your arts and culture board here!
3. Connect with individuals on social media.
Millenials and members of Generation Z are active on social media and inclined to share their passion for philanthropy and social justice on these platforms. Engage in conversations with them and consider meeting those you meet online to see if they would be a good fit for your board.
Committing to diversity is an ongoing process. As organizations that facilitate and inspire change, it’s important to reflect the diversity of the communities in which we operate so as to drive lasting impact.
Sources and additional resources:
http://www.racialequitytools.org/resourcefiles/californiatomorrow.pdf
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