Driving Change Through Collective Learning: Reflections from a Funders Listening Community of Practice
As a “formal” philanthropy serving organization (PSO), our participation in the funders listening community of practice over the past two years has been impactful. This cohort has continued to drive our goal of learning and expanding perspectives, enabling us to more effectively serve the social sector. Particularly in 2024, we have observed significant transitions in narratives and priorities within Puerto Rico that directly impact the Sector.
Through this funders listening community of practice, we engaged in enriching experiences, including virtual meetings, cohort visits from PSO peers to Puerto Rico and trips to Baltimore and Georgia. Explore our journey and insights through our (blogs de FLCP and podcast).
Listen to our podcast episode series regarding this amazing experience!
Over the past year of participating in this community of practice, we have deepened our understanding of the intricate needs and strengths of the sector we serve. This journey has prompted a thoughtful analysis of our strategies and priorities, ensuring that our efforts remain aligned with the ever evolving Puerto Rico’s landscape. As highlighted in our journey, this community of practice has provided a platform for us to engage in deep, reflective conversations with peers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptation. The opportunity to join voices with 11 other PSOs, as detailed in recent reflections, has been a pivotal moment in strengthening our collective capacity and shared vision. We explore how organizations can implement effective listening practices to promote equity and foster constructive change at the organizational level. Listen to the amazing conversations with our cohort peer, Rachel Leonidas on this topic. It has further emphasized the value of trust-based relationships and co-created solutions, key topics resonating throughout our participation.
One of the most significant outcomes of our participation in this cohort has been the enhanced ability to center the voices of the collectives we serve in our decision-making processes. This transformative shift has not only deepened our understanding of the opportunities within the social sector but has also highlighted the extraordinary capacity to actively listen and take meaningful action based on what we hear. Something we discussed with Melinda Tuan on our trip to Georgia: Listening, Responding and Shifting Power.
The funders listening community of practice has been instrumental in driving our goal of learning and expanding perspectives. As we continue to adapt to the changing narratives and priorities in Puerto Rico, we remain committed to promoting systemic change and equity of the social sector. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of this funders listening community of practice. We recognize the remarkable power of a group committed to actively listening, gaining a profound understanding of collaboration dynamics and deepening philanthropic best practices. We are indeed, everlasting students!
