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In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, Maria interviews Carmen Randolph, the CEO and President of the Women’s Foundation of the South (WFS). Carmen shares her insights into the unique challenges faced by nonprofits in the Southern United States, especially those led by and serving women and girls of color. The conversation covers the historical and systemic issues affecting philanthropy in the South, the growing legal challenges against organizations that prioritize marginalized communities, and the importance of trust-based philanthropy.

Carmen emphasizes the need for Southern nonprofits to diversify their funding sources, engage in proactive donor education, and prepare for potential legal challenges in the wake of recent shifts in U.S. policy and law.

Key Topics:

• Legal Challenges and Affirmative Action: Carmen discusses recent lawsuits targeting organizations that focus on racial equity, particularly those led by people of color, and the importance of legal preparedness for nonprofits in this new landscape.
• Philanthropy in the Southern U.S.: Learn about the unique challenges faced by Southern nonprofits, including underfunding, systemic racism, and the impact of the region's historical context on philanthropic efforts.
• Donor Education and Engagement: Explore how nonprofits can engage donors proactively in the face of increasing legal and political challenges, ensuring continued support for marginalized communities.

Quotable Moments:

• "Women and girls of color receive the smallest share of philanthropic investment in the U.S., and we are seeking to change that trend."

Actionable Tips:

➜ Engage in Legal Preparedness: Nonprofits should conduct legal reviews of their operations and documents to prepare for potential lawsuits, especially those focused on racial equity.

➜ Proactively Educate Donors: Engage donors about the importance of continued support for marginalized communities and the potential challenges your organization may face due to shifting legal landscapes.

➜ Diversify Funding Streams: Look at your nonprofit's work through various lenses to attract funding from different sources.

Resources Mentioned:

• Women’s Foundation of the South Website
• Shift the South Report

Connect with Us:

• Connect with Maria
• Connect with Carmen

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