Dear Reader,

The graduation season is upon us; this year, I have five young people in my family crossing the graduation stage, including my 8th grade twins. This season leaves me feeling nostalgic and hopeful. I have been listening closely to the sage advice shared in commencement addresses. Some of my favorite speakers have included Kermit the Frog and Maggie Rogers.

Grant Hill's words at Duke University's commencement resonated the most with me. He said, "The world doesn't need more promises. We need people who keep them." This reminds me of all the doers in the nonprofit sector. They show up everyday to keep their promises. Regardless of the circumstances, they fulfill their commitments to our communities to provide food, healthcare, tutoring, clean water, shelter, inspiring art and on and on. They refuse to accept the status quo; they strive to make our communities better and stronger with compassion. As we're living through turbulent times, I am watching our nonprofit leaders adapt in real time to keep their promises. May we all draw inspiration from their unwavering commitment. Hill challenged graduates to "do better" in the world; let's all heed that call.

Client Spotlight

We are thrilled to spotlight our client, Betsy Fleming, and her fantastic new podcast, "Kick-Ass Women of the Carolinas". Betsy's interviews powerfully amplify the voices of women leaders rooted in the Carolinas who are redefining success for women and girls. So far, the series has featured Laura Yates Clark, President of Foundation For The Carolinas, and Dr. Monique Perry-Graves, CEO of Road to Hire. Both of these women are driving change in their communities with innovation and compassion. We're proud to see these incredible women leaders celebrated! Thank you, Betsy, for your vision.

What We've Been Up To

What's Inspiring Us

Intergenerational Human Connection

Can Intergenerational Connection Heal Us? - CoGenerate (30 minute read)

"When people of different ages come together, they don’t just form friendships – they build bridges between the past and the future, strengthen communities, break down barriers, and offer a chance for healing." This report highlights specific ways we can connect and heal across generations. We need more funding to support public spaces and cultural and religious institutions that foster these connections. Read on; we were inspired!

Fostering Creativity

Investing in Creativity as Social Infrastructure - Stanford Social Innovation Review (5 minute read)

In a world where civil society is taking a new shape, creativity can act as a regenerative force bringing joy, play and new perspective into placemaking. "...investing in local creative activities can shift culture toward belonging, connection, and shared prosperity, and allow communities to build a better, more joyful future together."

A Monumental Philanthropy's Future

The Gates Foundation, the World's Biggest Philanthropy, Announces Plans to Shutter in 2045 - The Chronicle of Philanthropy (5 minute read, behind a paywall)

“There are too many urgent problems to solve for me to hold on to resources that could be used to help people,” said Bill Gates, co-founder of the Gates Foundation. This finite timeline isn't an end, but an inspiring acceleration. It highlights the urgency of impactful giving and challenges us to maximize our efforts now.

Redefining Generosity

A New Era of Philanthropy - Dimple Abichandani

Author Dimple Abichandani recognizes that we're living in a uniquely transformative time in the philanthropic sector. She offers new practices to consider to disrupt current norms; these practices will channel more philanthropic dollars to accelerate the pace of change to solve our world's most urgent issues.

Check out the latest on GPA's Blog:



• Why Is It Important to Consider Philanthropy in Your Estate Planning?
• Family Foundation Executive Search | Why a Thoughtful Process Matters

Wishing you a lovely start to your summer. Hope you find creative ways to connect in your communities and across generations. You never know what might happen!

Gratefully,

Kaky + The GPA Team