How do we step into the work of repairing our world?

The work of repairing this world (aka systems change) begins by connecting deeply with those most impacted by the changes we seek; discovering possibilities for a different future; and experimenting our way forward. There will be chocolate involved.

 

We will work together to turn moments of transition and uncertainty into the intentional pursuit of a different future.

[ work ]

For Funders | Philanthropic Strategy

How do we pursue change in the world and stay aligned with the needs of the organizations and communities most impacted? Our work together will involve embedding deeply with issues and people to co-create a philanthropic strategy that builds a collective vision for change.

For Organizational Leaders | Embedding Strategic Capacity

Today, leaders are being asked to absorb, in real time, the changing (and often conflicting) needs of their organizations, funders, stakeholders and ecosystems. Our work together will establish the internal capacities and processes core to becoming collaborative, responsive, experimental, and true to mission in a rapidly changing environment. Yes, there will be a strategic plan to send to the printer before we’re done.

For Networks + Coalitions | Network Strategy + Systems (Re)design

Today’s social systems chronically reinforce racial inequity. These systems were, at one point, designed— and now should be (re)designed to benefit all who are impacted. Our work together will build cross-sector, cross-issue teams that act collectively to rethink our communal structures and processes with the goal of justice and inclusion.

With/In Collaborative

Emerging from work in California’s Central Valley, the With/In Collaborative was founded to re-imagine and re-design communal systems.

With/In Collaborative

Emerging from work in California’s Central Valley, the With/In Collaborative was founded to re-imagine and re-design communal systems.

It’s true. Who you know is the source of the solutions you seek.

[ network ]

Too often in times of transition or ambiguity, leaders bypass the wisdom and solutions already present in their social networks.

In our work together, one of my first questions will be: Who do you know and learn from? It is one of my deepest convictions that any change strategy — be it personal, organizational or systemic — must be supported by all who are impacted by your vision for change. And, if you are in the right conversations, they won’t all agree with you and will care enough to tell you why. 

Here are some of the leaders and networks that are a source of continual learning, inspiration and fellowship for me.

[ about ]

I happily wear many hats in my work as a social systems strategist and philanthropy advisor. My best days at work involve sitting across the table with visionaries who share my curiosity and determination about how to amplify our efforts to create a more inclusive and just future.

 

In 2019, I co-founded the With/In Collaborative, a consulting collaborative that is committed to working alongside groups of cross-sector leaders to re-imagine and re-design their shared communal systems. I am also program director to the New Leadership Network, and the Philanthropic Advisor to the Peleh Fund. My client work looks to accelerate the work of leaders and funders by embedding deeply at moments of transition and uncertainty — and leveraging network strategy, human centered design and systems thinking in pursuit of a different future. Some highlight from the last few years include:

In a previous life, I was the first senior program officer at the Jim Joseph Foundation and the founding US director of the Israel Venture Network. In 2011, I received the JJ Greenberg Award for Philanthropic Leadership from the Jewish Funders Network. That was a really good day in light of what JJ Greenberg was all about.

I often write and speak about what I’m learning which is a pretty cool part of the job. I recently co-authored the book Leading Systems Changewith Heather McLeod Grant. The book, now available for free download, tells the story of two communities embracing the opportunities and constraints of living in California’s Central Valley; and provides funders and practitioners with a detailed case-study, lessons learned, and tools for equity-centered systems change.