The Urgency of Now
APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR THE ETOLIA FUND’S INAUGURAL EXECUTIVE ADVISORY BOARD
In today’s rapidly changing social and political landscape, the need for transformative change has never been more pressing. Across the United States, and particularly in the South, communities are facing profound challenges that threaten to undermine decades of progress in human rights, education, civic engagement, and the arts. From the rollback of civil liberties to the systemic inequities exacerbated by economic and racial injustice, the moment demands a bold and strategic response.
“Fighting there is heroic. And I mean fighting for freedom, of course, but also simply fighting to live. That struggle has never ceased. It teaches. By now we know that the flower children, the yippies, the gay rights organizers, and the second-wave feminists were all inspired by the voices of the freedom movement. But the ripple is much bigger. In each successive generation, expression has pushed past existing boundaries, arguing that their insistence is more than a matter of style or taste, but rather that it is a matter of freedom.”
IMANI PERRY, “SOUTH TO AMERICA: A JOURNEY BELOW THE MASON-DIXON TO UNDERSTAND THE SOUL OF A NATION”
THE CONTEXT
At the height of the Jim Crow era, W.E.B. DuBois famously said, “As the South goes, so goes the nation.” Today, that statement rings truer than ever. The South is often perceived by those outside the region as being trapped in the past, but the reality is starker: the South is a bellwether for what is to come for the rest of the nation if movement leaders aren’t invested in and the core injustices experienced there are left unchecked. Recent Supreme Court rulings have only underscored this urgency. Rather than divesting from the South in protest of its political elites, now is the time to invest more deeply in the region's movements and leaders who are working tirelessly to challenge the status quo and drive forward social justice.
Since its founding in 2022, The Etolia Fund has self-funded more than $110,000 in contributions to support emerging leaders and innovative organizations making a profound impact in their communities. These contributions have laid the groundwork for meaningful change, but to truly scale our impact and address the growing challenges in the South and beyond, we are seeking partners who share our vision and commitment.
The South, in particular, stands at a critical juncture. As a region that has long been a battleground for civil rights and social justice, the South continues to be a place where both the greatest challenges and the greatest opportunities for change exist. Investing in the South is not just about addressing regional disparities; it’s about supporting a new generation of leaders who are reimagining what justice, equity, and community look like in a region with a complex and deeply rooted history.
The Etolia Fund recognizes the urgency of this moment and is committed to investing in the leaders and organizations who are driving this change. By supporting these emerging voices, we can help build a future that is more just, informed, engaged, and creative—not just for the South, but for the entire nation. We are dedicated to ensuring that the resources, mentorship, and strategic support these leaders need are readily available to them.
This moment requires visionaries who are willing to push boundaries, challenge the status quo, and build coalitions across communities. The Executive Advisory Board of The Etolia Fund will play a crucial role in guiding our investments and amplifying the voices of those who are making the most profound impact. Together, we can seize this moment to ensure that the movements and leaders of today become the catalysts for a brighter, more equitable tomorrow.
Our Investments to Date: Amplifying Emerging Voices
Since its inception in 2022, The Etolia Fund has strategically invested in a diverse array of organizations and initiatives that align with our mission to support emerging leaders and innovative movements. Our focus has been on amplifying voices and efforts that may not yet have widespread recognition but are making a profound and outsized impact in their communities, particularly across the Southern United States.
Trends and Throughlines in Our Investments
Advancing Civil Rights and Social Justice:
A significant portion of our grants has been directed toward organizations dedicated to civil rights advocacy and social justice. Groups like the ACLU of Alabama and the Equal Justice Initiative are at the forefront of challenging racial injustice, mass incarceration, and systemic inequalities. These organizations embody the spirit of resistance and progress that is essential in regions where such issues are most acute.
Empowering Marginalized Communities:
Our investments have consistently supported organizations that work directly with marginalized and underserved communities. For instance, the Formerly Incarcerated College Graduates Network focuses on providing educational opportunities and advocacy for individuals re-entering society, while the Magic City Acceptance Academy creates safe and affirming educational environments for LGBTQ+ students in Birmingham, Alabama.
Promoting Education and Cultural Engagement:
We recognize the transformative power of education and cultural engagement in shaping just and informed societies. This is reflected in our support for institutions like the Birmingham Museum of Art, Princess Theatre for the Performing Arts, and Son of a Saint, which are committed to fostering intellectual growth and cultural awareness in their communities.
Addressing Critical Social Services:
The Etolia Fund has also invested in organizations that provide essential social services, such as The Thensted Center, a community and social services organization based in the Acadiana region of Louisiana, the Pine Street Inn, which works to provide sustainable housing solutions for people who are unhoused, and the Yellowhammer Fund, which supports reproductive rights and healthcare access in Alabama. These grants underscore our commitment to addressing the immediate needs of vulnerable populations while supporting long-term systemic change.
Fostering Grassroots Organizing and Advocacy:
We believe in the power of grassroots movements to drive change from the ground up. The Highlander Research and Education Center, a critical hub for grassroots organizing, is a prime example of the type of organization we support. Their work in social, economic, and environmental justice aligns with our vision of empowering communities to advocate for themselves and create lasting change. We’ve also invested in advocacy led by organizations like The Southern Center for Human Rights, Grantmakers for Southern Progress, GASP, The Mothers of Gynecology Movement, the Alabama Coalition for Immigrant Justice, and Charleston’s We Are Family, an LGBTQI+ community center.
Regional Focus: The South as a Bellwether
Our investments reveal a strong focus on the Southern United States, recognizing the region's unique challenges and opportunities. The South remains a critical battleground for many of the social justice issues that The Etolia Fund seeks to address. By investing in organizations that are deeply rooted in the South, we are not only addressing regional disparities but also supporting movements that have the potential to influence national conversations and policies.
These investments reflect The Etolia Fund's commitment to a more just, informed, and engaged society. By supporting emerging leaders and organizations that are making a tangible difference in their communities, we are helping to build a future where justice and equity are not just ideals but realities for all.
Be Part of a Transformative Journey
The Etolia Fund is seeking passionate and driven individuals to join our Executive Advisory Board. As a board member, you will have a unique opportunity to contribute to our mission of supporting emerging leaders and organizations that are shaping a more just, informed, and engaged society. Your expertise, network, and financial commitment will play a crucial role in amplifying the impact of our investments, particularly in the Southern United States where the need for transformative change is urgent.
Who We Are Looking For
We are building a dynamic team of leaders who are dedicated to making a difference.
You do not need to work in the philanthropic, social impact, or nonprofit sectors – all you have to do is care about leveraging your good fortune and your capital in a way that helps spur equity, justice, and positive social change.
All we ask is that you:
Are a Passionate Advocate for Social Impact: You are deeply committed to social justice, human rights, and community-driven change. You have a track record of supporting or donating to initiatives in areas like human rights, literacy, youth education, civic engagement, or the arts.
Are An Established Leader With an Emerging Interest in Giving Back: You are an experienced professional and an emerging philanthropist eager to engage in high-impact, values-driven work.
Financially Committed: Board members are expected to contribute $4,500 for their two-year term (or $2,750 per year if donating annually). This financial commitment reflects your dedication to The Etolia Fund’s goals and helps ensure the sustainability of our initiatives.
Professionals Seeking Development Opportunities: You see board service as a chance to enhance your professional skills, expand your network, and gain experience while driving positive social change. You value opportunities for growth, leadership development, and engagement with forward-thinking organizations.
Collaborative and Strategic Thinkers: You possess a collaborative mindset and strategic vision. You are committed to innovative, trust-based grant-making and understand the power of intergenerational perspectives and partnerships in driving systemic change.
What You Will Gain
As a member of The Etolia Fund’s Executive Advisory Board, you will have access to exclusive opportunities that will elevate your professional and personal growth:
Exclusive Access to KMSG Networks: Connect with KMSG’s extensive network of clients, partners, and allies through exclusive webinars, events, and workshops that deepen your understanding of social impact and philanthropy. Engage directly with movement nonprofits to gain insights into the challenges and opportunities in the field.
Leadership Development Workshops: Participate in tailored workshops focused on social impact strategic decision-making and philanthropic leadership. These sessions will enhance your skills and prepare you for more significant leadership roles in the philanthropic sector.
Networking and Mentorship Opportunities: Attend events that connect you with industry leaders, philanthropists, and nonprofit executives. Benefit from a mentorship program that pairs you with experienced leaders within KMSG’s network, offering guidance as you navigate your role on the board.
Impact Site Visits and Field Engagement: Visit grant recipients and witness firsthand the impact of The Etolia Fund’s investments. Engage directly with the communities we support, gaining valuable insights into the grassroots movements and organizations driving change.
Additional Benefits:
Networking and Relationship-Building: Join other executive leaders at exclusive events with movement leaders, nonprofit and philanthropic changemakers, and global influencers.
Media and Communications Expertise: Gain insights into effective media relations and brand messaging to amplify your professional growth and organizational impact.
Recognition and Influence: Enhance your profile by being part of a high-impact team recognized for its contributions to civil and human rights.