Why We Reported the When Policy Hits Home Series

President and CEO Kevin Walker reflects on the real-world impacts of current policy on the communities we serve.

These impacts have affected almost every aspect of the day-to-day realities of the communities we serve. We cannot respond effectively if we are unwilling to take an unvarnished look at what they’re enduring.

Our grantee partners have always faced barriers from forces beyond their control. Many of these barriers are longstanding, culturally entrenched, and deeply rooted—some of which predate the country’s founding. The barriers can also be difficult to see for those not directly impacted. This is why we often profile our partners.

This time, the barriers are different.

What’s different now is the pace of disruptive change and the magnitude of its effects. And while federal policy disruptions are unfolding in clear sight, their effects may still be difficult to grasp.

We feel it’s important to share what’s happening on the ground. We heard directly from people impacted by these policy changes and learned what it means for families, organizations, and communities.

The stories are stark and challenging. We saw immigrant families torn apart, businesses struggling as opportunities slipped away, tribal colleges fighting ever-deeper federal funding cuts, and farmers scrambling to access resources and grapple with surprising price fluctuations.

Communities are rising to the challenges but need more support.

But the stories also revealed a strong resolve to meet the challenges.

What struck me throughout this series was the response from our grantee partners in the face of unprecedented difficulties and their courage and heart—two values the Foundation shares. Again and again, we heard from people taking action to support their communities, culture, livelihoods, and futures. As a funder and ally, we are doing our best to meet the moment with them.

These stories are only snapshots, but together, they offer an important reminder: The people closest to the challenges are also closest to the solutions.

Their experiences deserve philanthropy’s attention. Their leadership deserves our support. Their courage demands that we have their backs.

I encourage you to read their stories here, and reach out to me directly with any reflections, thoughts, and ideas.