February is the month when Americans acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of Black Americans through Black History Month. I encourage you to read the new MECCA IE Report, powered by the MECCA IE Fund (formerly the IE Black Equity Initiative). It offers a clear, honest look at the experiences and priorities shared by Black residents across the Inland Empire—and it highlights where thoughtful, focused investment can truly move the needle. This is an important contribution to ongoing discussions of racial equity – the data helps drive investments to close gaps and give everyone their best shot at a thriving life in the IE. We cannot change what we do not understand, and reports like MECCA IE help us envision what is possible and needed.
Some of you may have seen that I was recently named to the Board of SoCal Grantmakers. I’m happy to join this important philanthropy-serving organization, connecting with funders and partners who care deeply about our Southern California communities. A stronger connection between LA and the Inland Empire takes time and relationships to accomplish. Many misconceptions about the IE exist, and it’s good to be able to share the innovations bubbling up all around us in Riverside and San Bernardino counties. In March, I’m heading to Foundations on the Hill, a policy event for foundations of all sizes across the country. Our Board of Directors is key to making it possible for us to make sure we are in these rooms, powered by our Here for Good Fund which supports the travel, gatherings, and reports that show what’s possible with investment in the IE.
Closer to home, the annual Women’s Giving Fund Spring Fling is coming up in March in Coachella Valley, for the first time. It’s always a joyful gathering, bringing people together to champion economic mobility and leadership opportunities for women and girls in our region, helping close gaps between possibility and reality for women in the IE.
Thank you for being part of the IECF community. Your support fuels everything we do. If you have thoughts or questions about anything in this month’s newsletter, I’d love to hear from you. Reach out any time.
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