Kevin Walker, Committee Co-Chair

These are extraordinary times for Minnesota, and for Minnesota philanthropy. Our state faces a daunting budget deficit. The economy is in the doldrums. Disparities in everything from educational achievement to health and community wellbeing paint a disturbing picture: a Minnesota where low-income people and people of color do not fully share in the high quality of life that has made this state great.

So: what kind of Minnesota do we hope to create for our children and grandchildren? What kind of future? My belief is that, whatever angle you and your organization take on the vital work of philanthropy, those defining questions are relevant to what you do. And I think there’s an important role for the Minnesota Council on Foundations in creating a space in which we can think through these questions together, get serious about sharing ideas, and work toward innovative solutions.

That’s why I joined my colleague LaTresse Snead of Tastefully Simple in chairing this year’s MCF convening. We are busy crafting a convening in which all types of Minnesota philanthropies will find value, be challenged, and leave energized for the work ahead. As we finalize the planning, your voice matters — so please take advantage of this website to let us know what you’re looking for from your fall convening.

See you in October!

– Kevin Walker, president & CEO Northwest Area Foundation

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