Stewarding change

Our community has a long history of generosity, and funders have a vital role in stewarding change. However, if we are serious about change, Rochester’s philanthropic efforts must steer clear of “funding the familiar,” where resources are directed to well-known organizations and leaders.

Now more than ever, we see the needs of our community, and far too often these needs impact the way we engage and educate our students and support our leaders. Funders have an opportunity to impact our school systems by providing access to flexible funding streams to foster transformative change that is responsive to immediate goals and systemic change. Philanthropic dollars can support academic and career-enhancing activities and programmatic expansion to allow schools to enhance what works and improve life outcomes for our children.

In my previous role as program officer of equity at the Rochester Area Community Foundation and in my current capacity as the founding executive director of the University Preparatory Charter School Foundation, I have assumed the role of a servant leader working to bring the dreams of our children, families, and educators to fruition.

We must fund initiatives that are breaking barriers and providing viable prospects for our most vulnerable residents. This funding strategy is best served by those who have relationships and lived experiences with our targeted communities. Relationships and deep understanding, either through firsthand experiences or social encounters, enable funders to prioritize investments. Keep in mind, relationships take time and go two ways. Funders need to be in this for the long term, as many issues that plague our schools were not created overnight. System leaders and funders must develop bonds of trust that are grounded by a shared vision, intentional steps, and impactful results. In doing so, funders should also invite students and parents to participate in creating needed change in education.

We all have a part to play. Together, we can devise a playbook that ensures our community’s success.

MAYA CRANE

Founding Executive Director, University Preparatory Charter School Foundation