OUR APPROACH

Trust-Based Philanthropy

The Sisters of St. Joseph Health and Wellness Foundation uses a 'trust-based' approach to grantmaking. Trust-based philanthropy is about redistributing power—systemically, organizationally, and interpersonally—in service of a healthier and more equitable nonprofit sector. On a practical level, this includes multi-year, less restrictive funding, streamlined applications and reporting, and a commitment to building relationships based on transparency, dialogue, and mutual learning. Rather than a formal application, we'll be setting up a coffee conversation with you to get to know your organization in a more meaningful way. If we move forward with funding, we see you as a collaborative partner, rather than a grantee. Ultimately, we will form a Memorandum of Understanding that highlights our mutual commitment to our shared values and allows us both to determine how our partnership will grow.

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Our trust-based approach is rooted in our mission to support the holistic health of WV's children and their families with a focus on primary and secondary prevention and promoting systemic change.