As 2014 comes to a close, we are taking a moment to thank you -- our members, colleagues and allies -- for supporting our work to promote effective and responsive philanthropy in Black communities. This has been a banner year for ABFE and we thank you for making it possible. 

 

In the area of advocacy, we released two reports on philanthropy's ability to engage and retain Black talent - one in the area of foundation program and executive staff and the other in the area of endowment management. In each of these areas, our research filled critical gaps relative to our participation in the field. 

 

As it relates to professional development, we were able to draw an exceptional cohort for the 2014-2015 Connecting Leaders Fellowship Program. Their Leadership Summit held in Birmingham, Alabama provided as much learning for the ABFE Fellows as it did to bring resources to Black leadership in that city. 

 

Relative to our networking and convening, it also is important to name the Unity Summit held in partnership with our colleagues of the Joint Affinity Groups (JAG) in June. Rather than hosting our two day conference, we joined with JAG representatives of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy (AAPIP); the Women's Funding Network (WFN); Native Americans in Philanthropy (NAP); Funders for LGBTQ Issues and Emerging Practitioners in Philanthropy (EPIP) to host one event focusing on advancing equity for all communities. 

 

Regarding our charge to share and provide knowledge, training and technical assistance, we launched our online Knowledge Center as part of our new website abfe.org and continued offering trainings on our framework for giving in Black communities, RPBC.

 

2014 was indeed a busy year! 

 

After the holiday break, we will jump into 2015 with a renewed sense of purpose, energy, and dedication. We invite you to stay connected and continue to support our work -- you still have time to make a gift in support of ABFE, join or renew your membership.

 

Wishing you all the joy the season brings!

 

Team ABFE