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An initiative to expand diverse leadership in philanthropy

A Commitment to Diversity
As part of our ongoing efforts to promote and advance philanthropy, Associated Grant Makers is pleased to announce The AGM Diversity Fellowship Program. Founded in 1969, AGM is a regional association of grant makers in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Although our member organizations represent many distinct values and funding priorities, they share a common purpose: to shape a better future for the residents of our region. As our region experiences rapid demographic change, so do the faces of community leaders and organizations with which funders interact. Our members’ recognition of the value of diverse staffing is increasing, yet diversity in philanthropy has not kept pace. Nationally 21% of foundation professional staff are ethnic/racial minorities(1); AGM member organizations are approximately 11% people of color. Further, the potential pool of more representative staffing is also low given the prevalence of informal networks that are often used in the hiring process. This fellowship program aims to inspire the next generation of philanthropic leaders among people of color by offering training and support to a select group of passionate, emerging professionals. We strive to increase the number and proportion of people of color as staff – and executives – in the field of philanthropy. During the fellowship year, Fellows will gain knowledge and experiences in a wide range of areas. Fellows will expand their networks in philanthropy. And the Diversity Fellowship Program will provide assistance to help Fellows to obtain employment in the philanthropic sector.

Preparing Emerging Leaders
The program has four key components. Together, these four components will position Fellows to become the next generation of philanthropy professionals. Fellows will have knowledge, skills, experiences and relationships that prepare them for a career in philanthropy.

1. Learning Community including an initial two week orientation and weekly meetings thereafter during which Fellows come together to learn about the history, tools, critical issues and legal structures that govern philanthropy.
2. A Placement for 4 days per week with a host grant making organization. Work with professional staff and trustees to gain hands-on experience in grantmaking.
3. Professional Collaboration Opportunities through which the Fellows engage with the field’s affinity groups such as the Boston Education Funders or Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy, and attend a national or regional conference in the northeast.
4. Stuctured Connections for the Fellow, linking him/her to key philanthropy leaders in our region. A minimum of two structured connections will be made for Fellows during the Fellowship.

A Commitment to the Future

The AGM Diversity Fellowship Program is a full-time, 12-month program (September through August) for diverse professionals who aspire to a career in philanthropy. The program is based in Boston, however, Fellows could be placed in host foundations throughout Massachusetts, Rhode Island, or New Hampshire. The AGM Diversity Fellowship Program may be right for you if you are a person of color(2) and:

• You must currently reside in the United States and satisfy Federal laws regarding employment eligibility verification.
• You’d like to explore a career in philanthropy.
• You have extensive knowledge of nonprofit services, neighborhood development or community building.
• You are an energetic self-starter / show initiative.
• You have experience, academic preparation and prior work, that includes either:
  • a Bachelor’s degree with five years of experience, or
  • a Master’s degree with three years of experience.
• You have a demonstrated track record of community service / volunteerism, especially in communities of color.
• You have strong analytical and communication skills (writing and speech).
  
  Fellows will be employed through AGM and receive a taxable stipend of $45,000. Fellows will also receive limited benefits including leave time and eligibility to enroll in AGM’s healthcare insurance plan.

(1) 2007 Grantmakers Salary and Benefits Report, Council on Foundations.

(2) For the purpose of this program, person of color includes Black or African American, Hispanic, Asian and Pacific Islander, and Native American.

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