The Giving Project

Geographic Scope: Chicago area

Focus Areas: Racial, social, and economic justice organizing

Program Description: An innovative participatory grantmaking and fundraising program that democratizes philanthropy. Participants engage in political education exploring race and class, make individual monetary donations, raise funds from their networks through "donor organizing," and practice participatory grantmaking.

Impact & History:

• Since 2015, the Giving Project has raised more than $500,000 from over 900 donors
• The 2019 cohort included 23 multi-racial, cross-class, intersectional participants
• 2019 cohort raised $144,823 from 282 donors, enabling grants to 29 grassroots groups
• Participants engage over six months in deep conversations on race and class

Program Focus:

• Anti-blackness and white supremacy training
• Centering experiences of People of Color
• Discussions on structural oppression
• How race and class show up in fundraising and grantmaking
• Supporting bold strategies that get to the root cause of injustice

Eligibility:

• Open to those interested in joining the cohort
• Multi-racial, cross-class participation encouraged

Contact Information:

• Crossroads Fund
• 3411 West Diversey Avenue Suite #20
• Chicago, Illinois 60647
• Phone: 773.227.7676
• Website: crossroadsfund.org

How to Apply

1. Expression of Interest: Complete an interest form on the Crossroads Fund website
2. Recruitment Timeline: Interested individuals are contacted in November for recruitment into the next cohort
3. Program Duration: Six-month commitment required
4. Participation Requirements:
   • Attend staff-facilitated trainings on race, class, and political education
   • Make an individual monetary donation that is significant to participant
   • Raise funds from personal networks through "donor organizing"
   • Participate in grantmaking decision-making process
   • Engage in site visits with grantee organizations
   • Attend cohort meetings and trainings