

613. A Community-Centric Approach to Philanthropy - Rachel D'Souza
What does it mean to truly center community in philanthropy?
Meet Rachel D’Souza, Founder and Chief Purpose Officer of Gladiator Consulting. 🤝 A leading voice in the Community-Centric Fundraising (CCF) movement, Rachel shares her perspective on systems change in resource development, balancing donor expectations with equity, and how to drive long-term systems change over short-term solutions.
In this moment of unprecedented challenge for social impact orgs, Rachel offers a roadmap for survival, collaboration, and meaningful change. Nonprofit leaders need a new approach—one that centers community, embraces vulnerability, and dismantles outdated systems. Listen in for bold insights, real talk, and a call to action for the future of fundraising. 🎧
Key Takeaways:
✔ What Community-Centric Fundraising is and why it matters
✔ How nonprofits can own their narrative in donor conversations
✔ Creative approaches to self-funding and collaboration in the sector
Resources Mentioned:
- Community Centric Fundraising website
- Follow Rachel D'Souza's work through Gladiator Consulting
- Connect with Tosha Phonix, Executive Director of A.C.R.E.S.
Learn more: www.weareforgood.com/episode/613
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