Philanthropy is navigating a time of upheaval. Funders are grappling with how to respond to mounting threats to nonprofits and vulnerable communities, plummeting government funding for international aid and social services, and increasing political polarization. They know that listening to grantees and communities can help them respond wisely, but are unsure how to do it well right now. The Listening in this Moment guide, developed by Listen to Community partner Feedback Labs. highlights resources and case studies from across the sector and offers practical ways to listen with care and confidence in uncertain times.
What you’ll find in the guide
The guide answers five common questions funders ask regarding listening in times of chaos:
- How do I listen quickly in moments of upheaval?
- How can I listen without burdening grantees or communities?
- How do I protect the safety of the grantees and community members I’m listening to?
- How should I listen in polarized communities?
- How should I listen when my plans are uncertain or not public?
Each section includes actionable guidance, examples from funders, and links to additional tools that help funders get started listening quickly even when the path ahead isn’t clear.
A road map for listening in chaos
No matter where you are on your listening journey, the Listening in this Moment guide will meet you there, offering examples and resources to help you navigate complexity through listening. Maybe you’re worried that asking for input could burden grantees already stretched thin. Or perhaps you’re wrestling with how to respond when hearing conflicting viewpoints that challenge your foundation’s values. The guide will help you find answers to your most pressing listening challenges and draw inspiration from peers who are leaning in to listening as a way to shift power.
Explore the guide
Listening in this Moment is available now, free to read online or download as a PDF. You can also sign up for a brief call with Feedback Labs to identify the tools most relevant to your work. Explore the guide and join us — in this time of upheaval and uncertainty — in listening to community to shift philanthropy for good.
