Are you ready to challenge the traditional power dynamics that shape philanthropy? "Power Shift" is a dynamic and interactive workshop designed to equip you with the knowledge and practical skills to transition from donor-centric models to a truly community-centered approach. We'll move beyond theory and delve into the real-world application of redistributing power and resources, fostering authentic relationships, and driving systemic change.
- Analyze Power Dynamics: Understand how traditional philanthropy perpetuates imbalances and impacts communities.
- Master Community-Centered Principles: Learn core principles like shared leadership and dismantle harmful narratives.
- Build Authentic Relationships: Gain practical skills for genuine engagement, co-creation, and feedback.
- Center Community Voices: Learn to prioritize community needs in program design and decision-making.
- Redistribute Power & Resources: Explore equitable models for governance, funding, and leadership.
- Drive Systemic Change: Develop strategies to address root causes and advocate for policy change.
- Utilize Practical Tools: Participate in exercises, case studies, and receive templates for community-centered fundraising.
- Address Challenges & Build Sustainability: Learn to navigate obstacles and create lasting community partnerships.
Participants will leave "Power Shift" with a renewed understanding of power dynamics in philanthropy and a toolkit of practical strategies for building authentic, equitable partnerships with the communities they serve. They will be empowered to drive systemic change and create a more just and equitable future.
Guest Speakers:
Fatima M. Smith, MSW
Fatima M. Smith, MSW is the co-founder of Collective 365, a philanthropic organization dedicated to supporting and celebrating Black and Brown communities in the DMV area (DC, Maryland, Virginia).
With a passion for creating communities free from violence and oppression, Fatima is a "social mom-trepreneur" and philanthropist who loves connecting people, laughing, dancing, and tasting good wine and bourbon. She is committed to reimagining philanthropy by making it more accessible and diverse, and by centering Black and Brown folks as decision-makers and thought leaders in their communities.
Fatima's vision for Collective 365 is to turn "interest into action" by providing financial support and resources to those doing impactful work in their communities. She believes in challenging the status quo and creating space for individuals to define their own needs and solutions.
She is a graduate of George Mason University and Virginia Commonwealth University. Fatima was recognized as a 2016 Richmond Times Dispatch Person of the Year honoree; VCU's Top 10 Under 10; GMU’s Top 50 Exemplar Alumni; GMU Black Alumni Chapter 40 Under Forty; and Style Weekly’s Top 40 under 40. But her greatest honor is being called mom! She is a board member of Children’s Advocacy Centers of Virginia as well as a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Currently she serves as the Chief Deputy Clerk of Chesterfield Circuit Court.
Bianca Myrick
Petersburg, Virginia native, Bianca Myrick is a mother, daughter, sister, and the founder and executive director of Pretty Purposed, a non-profit organization that inspires communities to empower young women and girls through girl centered social emotional learning, mentorship, and enrichment. As a former 5th and 6th grade educator for 12 years, Bianca saw a need in her community to cultivate joyful spaces for girls, which propelled her into starting Pretty Purposed, which now supports over 200 girls each year across 18 schools and sites within the Petersburg, Dinwiddie, Sussex, and Hopewell region. The Style Weekly Top 40 Under 40 (2023) and 2024 Remarkable Woman recipient also supports small organizations in the areas of grant writing, program and organizational development through her consulting business. She is a graduate of Virginia State University with a bachelors in elementary education, where she is also an adjunct professor, nurturing the next generation of teachers. Bianca has a masters in public administration from Virginia Commonwealth University and most recently a certificate in nonprofit management from Duke University. Additionally she is a co-founder and board chair of Collective 365, a nonprofit that has provided over $70,000 in funding to small businesses, nonprofits, and individuals. She is a lover of reading, history, and dance. Bianca resides in Chesterfield, VA with her teen son, Bryce.
VAFRE Members can register at the discounted member rate online here.