Resources

Beyond Diversity: Creating Common Ground
reprinted from the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Monterey Bay Chapter, October 2007 newsletter



Highlights from Session
On October 1st, our Chapter held a provocative workshop on diversity in fundraising at the Community Foundation for Monterey County.

Samuel Torres Jr., an attorney and new Associate with Maria Gitin & Associates, kicked off the session with diversity data illustrating how far we have yet to go in philanthropy to become professionally diverse and to reach diverse donors.

Maria Gitin Torres, CFRE, facilitated "Beyond Diversity: Creating Common Ground" with a panel of community and professional fundraisers offering heartfelt and direct advice.

Panelists included:
Erin Morita, Stewardship Officer, Monterey Institute of International Studies, who spoke of the diversity within Asian American communities and even within the Japanese community. She reminded us to "be patient, take time, allow the trust to develop."

Sylvia Quarles, community activist and political fundraiser followed her poignant remarks about the pain of growing up in segregation with a final "Remember our history. And--Just be real!"

Vivian Waldrup-Patterson, owner and founder of Total Solution Management Consulting Group in Marina and Ms. Quarles younger sister, emphasized the importance of staying focused on the cause when encountering prejudice. By staying true to the mission, you can help people move beyond who they think they see before them. Both sisters reminded us that they fundraise to bring funds into communities that still are in great need.

Carlos Ramos of Carmel, Founder and Principal of Ramos Cordova Strategy Group and current President of the Monterey League of Latin American Citizens (LULAC) told of one solicitor totally ignoring him during the ask, unaware that he was the decision maker in the group. He asked that everyone remember prejudice affects many people of color in many different ways. The issue is complex and this kind of dialogue needs to continue. Maria's materials outlined fundraising diversity strategies and gave helpful tips in getting started or moving forward on this issue so important to our future success.

Thanks to all who made this provocative session possible: our presenters and panelists, the Community Foundation, to Brenda Whitsett and Cathy Lindstom for refreshments and registration and to Maria Gitin & Associates for educational materials.