BUILD SOCIAL CAPITAL FOCUS AREA

KEY RESULTS & FUNDABLE ACTIVITIES 

Systems and institutions should be representative of and responsive to the communities they serve. Social problems are best solved when those affected participate in defining the challenges and finding solutions. Therefore we are particularly interested in proposals from constituency-based organizations, including coalitions and collaborations formed within and across communities.

1) Communities Speak and Act for Themselves             

Social challenges are best met when those most affected are deeply engaged in defining the challenges as well as developing and carrying out the solutions.

Key Result: Under-represented communities have the capacity to act on their own behalf.

Fundable activities:

• Community organizing and research to solve community challenges.
• Community-based media to strengthen intra- and inter-group bonds.
• Community-based networks/organizations define and address needs.
  

2) Organizations are Prepared to Work Effectively with Communities

Public, private and nonprofit institutions should be responsive to the impact of their policies and practices on diverse communities.

Key Result: Institutions are prepared to work with under-represented communities in new and more effective ways.

Fundable activities:

• Community-based groups influence policy-makers in key public, private and nonprofit entities.
• Community organizations conduct advocacy to change how systems operate.
  

3) Leaders are Effective in Advancing a Shared Vision
Community members all have different strengths and assets which can help them take leadership roles when needed to move forward a community's agenda.

Key Result: Leaders utilize community assets to advance their shared vision.

Fundable activities:

• Leadership development through technical assistance and capacity building.
• Intercultural leadership development to build bridges between groups.