Relationships, Trust and Shared Problem Solving: Convening the Fourth Cohort of Community Progress Makers
The Citi Foundation recently announced the fourth cohort of Community Progress Makers that will receive unrestricted grant support to catalyze positive change in low-income communities across the U.S. In September 2024, we came together with the nonprofits to kick off the grantee learning community at an in-person convening in Washington, D.C. Over three action-packed days, Community Progress Makers joined site visits to explore the local impact cohort members are leading in Greater Washington, D.C. They also participated in sessions led by industry experts, public officials and fellow grantees on topics such as Enterprise Capital, inclusive growth, communications strategies, leveraging AI for equitable outcomes and more.
As Citi Foundation President Brandee McHale shared in her opening remarks, these convenings are a “laboratory for innovation and inspiration.” Reflecting on this spirited and engaging gathering of community change agents and the ways in which it set the foundation for what each nonprofit will achieve as a Community Progress Maker, three key takeaways emerge:
- Relationship-Building Comes First. Now in our fourth cohort of the Community Progress Makers initiative, we have heard time and time again that one of the most important ways we can support our grantees is by creating space for peer connection and relationship building. Significant time at the convening was therefore dedicated to just that: breakout sessions were designed to connect cohort members working in the same region or those with overlapping focus areas like affordable housing and access, economic development, financial health and workforce readiness. We can’t wait to see how these new or deepened relationships continue to evolve into partnerships, coalitions and even movements with long-lasting community impact.
- A Trust-Based Approach Goes Beyond Funding. The value of a trust-based approach to philanthropy goes far beyond unrestricted, multi-year funding. The technical assistance offerings on financial sustainability, Enterprise Capital and revenue creation meet each community organization where they are and are designed to support grantees in making the most of their unrestricted funding. This approach is the result of nearly ten years facilitating the Community Progress Makers program, and the Citi Foundation’s commitment to feedback and learning. We have developed these offerings in collaboration with expert organizations and input from past cohorts and believe that through targeted support and capacity building for nonprofits, we can catalyze long-term sustainability and community impact. It was inspiring to see that this curated, iterative approach resonated with our new cohort and to witness first-hand their enthusiasm for meaningful, trusting engagement.
Shared Challenges Calls for Shared Solutions. As grantees shared with candor the headwinds they face in their respective organizations and regions, we are reminded that no one is alone in navigating challenges. Almost every challenge raised over the course of the convening was echoed by another cohort member. Whether it was about board governance, revenue models, coalition-building, or fundraising, giving voice to these challenges helps open a forum for knowledge sharing and collective problem solving. This convening was a first step in breaking down barriers to encourage conversations and collaboration that could further benefit the Community Progress Makers and the communities they serve.
Hear from three Community Progress Makers about their experience at our September convening and see photos from the sessions in action. Learn more about the cohort here.
“The Community Progress Makers convening was an inspiring experience that strengthened my passion for advancing our affordable housing initiatives. The panels and breakout sessions were not only informative but also deeply moving, led by individuals who are clearly dedicated to uplifting underserved communities across the United States.
I found immense value in the Affordable Housing and Access session. The session fostered a thoughtful discussion among leaders from various organizations, highlighting both shared challenges and unique opportunities in addressing the housing crisis. It underscored the urgent need for collective advocacy at the policy level to address the needs of our communities.”
“The Community Progress Makers convening was an inspiring and transformative experience. Every detail of the convening reflected Citi Foundation’s commitment to fostering genuine connection and creating an environment where grantees could learn, share, and grow together. The seamless balance of plenary discussions, breakout sessions and informal networking opportunities made it clear how much care went into designing this program, ensuring every participant could walk away with actionable insights and renewed energy for their work.
The Affordable Housing and Access session was particularly inspiring. It created a space where grantees shared candid reflections on the challenges they face and the innovative solutions they've developed to serve their communities. Similarly, the Financial Sustainability, Enterprise Capital and Revenue Readiness session provided invaluable tools and strategies for building resilience in our funding models. One key takeaway was the importance of diversifying revenue streams and integrating sustainability planning into every aspect of our operations. I left the convening not only inspired but equipped with practical steps to enhance our work. Truly, the program was impactful, thoughtful, and like no other I've seen before.”
- Alexander Roque, President and Executive Director, Ali Forney Center (Community Progress Maker in Greater New York City)
“When I reflect on the 2024 Citi Foundation Community Progress Makers convening, the word ‘relationships’ stands out. The convening provided a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded organizations both locally and nationally, fostering a robust community of practice. Additionally, I am thrilled to be working with Capitalize Good through the CPM cohort. Together, we are developing an Enterprise Capital campaign for Sunshine Enterprises, a critical step in securing the funding needed to support our growth and impact. The session around earned revenue was also well-timed as we continue to look at creative and effective ways to boost activity in this space to continue diversifying our annual revenue base.”
- B.J Stewart, Executive Director, Sunshine Enterprises (Community Progress Maker in Greater Chicago)
