Our Values
Inspired by the legacy of Helen J. Serini, the foundation aims to embrace and embody the following values in our work and partnerships with others:
Leading with Humanity
Authentic, human-centered relationships
Candid communications
Empathetic and active listening
Adaptability, flexibility
Deep connection to and between grant partners
Inclusivity
Build a culture that values all voices and the expertise each unique perspective brings to different conversations
Recognition of systemic power dynamics at play in funder/grantee relationships
Commitment to racial equity
Humility
Scrappy, get-it-done attitude towards the work
Systemic-level visions for change
Leveraging role in the ecosystem to bring others along
Willingness to take risks and learn from mistakes
Big Thinking
Shared Learning
Learning collectively with others
Influencing & transforming other funder practices
Commitment to ongoing learning and evolution; adaptability
Sharing learnings back with the larger community, including failures and shortcomings
Collaboration
Between and across funding partners
Deepening and supporting collaborations and relationships across grantees and community-based organizations
Working together from a stance of humility
Integrity & Accountability
Recognition of the history of wealth-building, philanthropy, and systemic drivers of inequity in the United States
Holding accountability to our grant partners (and ultimately the clients they serve) at the center of our decision making