The June 13th meeting of the Central MA Funders Network will focus on collective impact to address inequities in the Worcester County food system. We will learn about the creative and research backed ways that are increasing food security.
The conversation will adopt a solutions-oriented lens and focus on the importance and proven value of collaborative approaches. We will hear the most recent data findings on the situation; the services being offered; and accompanying advocacy efforts. Examples of coalitions serving this area, including the Worcester Food Equity Center, Center on Food Equity and Local Food Works Initiative, will be discussed as well.
The meeting is a good learning opportunity for funders who want to better understand approaches to addressing food insecurity in the County and hear about how peer funders are already engaged.
The following nonprofit leaders will join us:
- Casey Burns, Director, Coalition for a Healthy Greater Worcester
- Jean McMurray, Executive Director, Worcester County Food Bank
- Gina Plata-Nino, J.D. SNAP Deputy Director, Food Research and Action Center
- Ayn Yeagle, Executive Director, Growing Places
About the Network:
The Network is for staff at grantmaking institutions making grants in Worcester County, or those grantmakers interested in learning more about the County.
The Central MA Funders Network exists to:
- Build community / strengthen relationships with peer funders
- Exchange knowledge / share practices around grantmaking strategies and approaches
- Leverage collaborative voice/philanthropy to influence policy in MA
Criteria for Network Participation:
- Grantmaking institutions based in Worcester County and making grants in the County OR grantmaking institutions based elsewhere but making grants in the County.
- This includes corporate funders, United Ways, family foundations, private/independent foundations, philanthropic advisors, etc.