Over the last few years, the relationship between faith and democracy has been of growing interest to funders. While there has long been a robust debate in America about the proper relationship between government and religions, there is also a sustained and evolving relationship between faith and democracy. Plenty of headlines have spotlighted the ways they are influencing each other–both positively and negatively.
How are grantmakers to make sense of it all?
A newly released Funding Guide for Faith and Democracy aims to explore the role of faith communities in shaping and making American civic life, while providing a framework for funders to engage with faith communities as partners in advancing a stronger and more inclusive democracy. This guide is meant for funders who are focused on democracy and civic life and can increase their impact by engaging faith communities. It is also for funders who are already investing in faith-inspired organizations but who are seeking a deeper understanding of the unique role those organizations play in the health of democracy and civic life.
Join the creators of the guide–Philanthropy for Active Civic Engagement and Democracy Funders Network–for a presentation of the guide and a discussion about the relationship between faith and democracy. Attendees can expect to leave the session with:
An understanding of how faith communities impact American civic life
An orientation to the faith and democracy funder landscape
A sense of the unique challenges and opportunities of working with faith groups in a democracy setting
Ideas and examples of how funders can take action
Connections to other funders thinking about or working at the intersection of faith and democracy
This event is intended for funders, but may be relevant for other audiences. All are welcome to join.