In the past, IECF has provided capacity building grants through its endowed Community Impact Fund (CIF). In March 2020, adopted a focus on racial, gender, and economic equity. This means ensuring our staff and Board reflect the communities we serve and that our grantmaking builds the voice and power of our grantees to transform their communities. It also means listening to and incorporating the lived experiences of people who daily struggle to achieve safety, health, and prosperity in the Inland Empire. In doing this work, IECF will rely on data that shows where disparities exist to drive our grantmaking, programs, and partnerships.
IECF is walking this journey with its Board, staff, and stakeholders to better use community philanthropy to create a fairer Inland Empire. IECF stands firmly against racism and all forms of oppression, prioritizing equity, inclusion, and diversity in our community work. In support of this commitment, our 2021-22 CIF grants will explicitly support groups in the IE to continue on and work towards these values and practices.
Key Initiatives and Programs include: 1) Inland Economic Growth Opportunity – Generating more middle skill jobs that earn middle-income wages; 2) Just San Bernardino -Developing economic and community development strategies that promote inclusive economic growth and good jobs for all; 3) Black Equity Initiative/Fund – Lifting up and building capacity of Black-led and Black empowering organizations committed to the long-term sustainability of Black organizations working to end systemic racism and build political and economic power for the Black community in Riverside and San Bernardino counties; 4) Youth Grantmakers – Leadership empowerment and grantmaking program for youth and by youth; 5) Arts for the IE Fund – Advocate for the arts locally and statewide as one voice for the Inland Empire; increase access to the arts for vulnerable and underserved populations through development and mentorship opportunities.