Fostering Communities of Belonging

In 1972 Michigan philanthropy came together to create CMF – as a gathering point, a collective voice, a community for foundation staff and trustees to collaborate, learn together and advocate for policies in support of the communities we serve. Those courageous efforts continue today as our diverse and vibrant network of Michigan philanthropy works together for a better, more equitable state. 

To advance this work, we must ask ourselves how can we widen our own circles –  inside our organizations and within our communities –  where all are valued and welcomed to help bridge polarizing divides and authentically build relationships, with community voice at the center. 

This fall, we will come together for CMF’s 51st Annual Conference in Detroit to explore the idea of belonging and what it means in our collective equity journey. At its core, belonging is about diversity, equity and inclusion – when conditions are created to ensure all can be their authentic selves and fully and meaningfully participate in systems and structures with equal opportunity, power and access. The challenges and struggles we share bring us together, grounded in our common humanity. 

Join your philanthropy peers as we unpack the challenges and opportunities to become a more unified us to truly affect transformative and systemic change in support of the communities we serve. 

Registration will open in mid-August!

Belonging is central to an inclusive democracy where all can participate. An active and engaged citizenry is essential for the health and advancement of our democracy. CMF supports policies, programs and partnerships that advance the active engagement and participation of Michiganders in civil society. This year Election Day is happening during our conference on Tuesday, November 7. 

In alignment with our commitment to civic engagement, CMF is designing our programming Tuesday morning with intentionality to ensure any local conference attendees will have ample time to vote before joining the conference for the day. We will also provide resources leading up to the conference to ensure all attendees have information on how to participate in early voting.  

Stay up to date on the latest conference announcements and events here and through email by signing up for our digital communications, and be sure to engage with CMF on LinkedIn @michfoundations and via #MIphilanthropy.