Lessons on Listening and Reshaping Narratives in Philanthropy
Family Pictures USA, a new show on PBS, that highlights local history and heritage, has relevance for philanthropy, as a piece at The Chronicle of Philanthropy points out. "At a time when foundations are being urged to listen more keenly to grantees and their ultimate beneficiaries, show host Thomas Allen Harris offers a master class in the gracious way that he listens intently and draws out the most profound expression of the stories behind family photo albums," details the piece.
The show - which invites people to share their family photo albums in an examination of roots and fruits of the family tree, as the article explains - provides lessons for the philanthropic field. As the piece explains,
Foundations and nonprofits can use the techniques and approach behind the show to conduct their own community photo-sharing events, with or without the direct assistance of the Family Pictures USA team. Also relevant for philanthropy is the opportunity for donors to get behind Family Pictures and other similar media projects that have the potential to reshape the narrative on critical issues like immigrant rights and racial equity.
You can read more of this show checking the July 2019 GIA Member Spotlight on Wyncote Foundation.
Image: Digital Diaspora Family Reunion LLC