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
Leaders today must adapt to changing and often conflicting demands and realities. Together, we’ll build the skills and structures needed to stay collaborative, responsive, and mission-driven, no matter what. And yes, there will be a strategic plan ready to print by the end.
For Networks + Coalitions | Network Strategy + Systems (Re)design
Today’s social systems chronically reinforce inequity. And, they can be re-designed to provide greater benefit to those they serve. Together, we will bring together teams across diverse issues and sectors to design structures and processes that promote access and inclusion.
WithIn Collaborative
The WithIn Collaborative has been working at the intersection of leadership, strategy, human-centered design and coaching since our founding in 2019. We partner with visionary leaders in nonprofits, foundations and the public sector to co-design powerful solutions to social challenges.
It’s true. Who you know is the source of the solutions you seek.
[ network ]
Too often in times of uncertainty, leaders bypass the wisdom and solutions already present in their networks.
In our work together, my first question will be: Who do you learn from? I believe any change—be it personal, organizational, or systemic—must be shaped by those it impacts. And, if you are in the right conversations, not everyone will 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 ]
Adene Sacks
LinkedIn
@adenesacks.bsky.social
My best days at work involve sitting across the table with visionaries who share my curiosity and determination to create a more just future. There is usually chocolate involved.
I happily wear many hats in my work as a social impact strategist, facilitator, grantmaker and philanthropic advisor.
In 2019, I co-founded the WithIn Collaborative, a consulting collaborative that partners with leaders in nonprofits, foundations and the public sector to co-design powerful solutions to social challenges. My work supports clients to navigate opportunity or uncertainty, using network strategy, human-centered design, and scenario planning to reimagine what’s possible.
Some of the highlights from recent years include:
- Re-designing the birth experience of Native women parents in deep partnership with parents and leaders from tribal lands in northern California, and with medical practitioners from Providence Health in California’s Humboldt County.
- Designing, facilitating and stewarding place-based, cross-sector, and multi-identity leadership networks, including the Irvine Foundation’s New Leadership Network; the Hawaii Community Foundation’s Leaders Network; the First Five Statewide Network, and the First Five Napa.
- Setting a new strategic vision with the Organizational Effectiveness team at the David and Lucile Packard Foundation and with the Community Foundation of San Joaquin.
- Embedding with the DataKind global network of data scientists in their formative years around their organizational capacity and network strategy.
- Coaching the Social Systems Design Fellows at Stanford’s School of Design (aka the d.School).
- Establishing the Peleh Residency, this country’s only family friendly artist residency program.
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 Change, with 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.