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“There are times when moments in the culture give meaning to our serious North Star. In a moment of lightness, I shared with Stephanie recently that one of my favorite movies of the early aughts (2000s) is Drumline and that my vision for NFG is a quote from that movie…where the band director of an Historically Black College (HBCU) says the goal is “one band, one sound” - that is our vision for the next chapter… “one NFG”. Now, if you have ever watched a HBCU band competition there is joy, flair, time for individuals to show up and show out…but the goal is always to be in step with each other to create this glorious sound that invites people to be moved by music from all walks of life. Our programs, our team, the learning and unlearning we do as a network has nuance, its own flair, and times for specific issues like economic and housing justice to step up…but we are working towards one goal: resourcing movements and power building like we want them to win. And winning, unlike the end of Drumline, does not come with a title. It is knowing that when we liberate resources, those at the sharpest intersection of marginalization have what they need to live and thrive.
– Amanda Andere
Co-President, Political Home
In the three months Amanda and I have been at NFG, many people have asked about our vision. We recently referenced Drumline at our first board meeting, our first staff retreat, and in our first tranche of member meetings. Since then, we’ve seen “one NFG” begin to take shape. As we co-create the specific contours of that vision with staff and members, we know some things remain true: NFG is your political home. NFG is the place where progressive philanthropy comes to be organized and to organize each other. And NFG remains committed to connecting people, place, and power.
When we are back in 2026, expect to see NFG in the field, using our voice to mobilize philanthropy to be in formation with movement partners. Look for us in your community (or invite us to come!) as we organize funders to build and shift power to Black, Indigenous, and communities of color. And join us in being bold, unapologetic, and joyful in our work to create one NFG that resources communities toward power and liberation.
– Stephanie Chan
Co-President, Funder Organizing
As the year comes to a close, we would like to thank all of our partners, peers, and members who have poured their time, energy, and resources into NFG’s network. We look forward to continuing our work as a political home and funder organizing hub, for funders seeking to foster connections, build a shared analysis, and take collective action.
In solidarity,
Team NFG