We’re excited to share a newly completed evaluation of AJL’s participatory grantmaking approach—an approach rooted in the belief that communities most impacted by inequity should have real authority over how resources are allocated. This report offers an honest look at what it means to shift power in philanthropy, centering the voices, experiences, and leadership of community decision-makers and grant partners alongside the insights of evaluators who walked this journey with us.
The evaluation highlights both meaningful impact and important tensions. It reflects the real, often complex work of moving from intention to practice: where participatory processes create deeper alignment, accountability, and trust, and where challenges surface that require continued learning and adaptation.
Rather than offering a polished success story, the report invites reflection on what equity-aligned philanthropy demands of us—individually and institutionally.
We are sharing this report in a spirit of learning, not perfection. Our hope is that it contributes to broader conversations across philanthropy about how values like equity, inclusion, and shared decision-making show up in day-to-day practice—and what becomes possible when community leads. We invite funders, partners, and peers to engage with the findings, reflect alongside us, and continue learning together.
We are deeply grateful to every grantmaking committee member, grant partner, Board and family member, Advisory Group member, and community collaborator who shared time, candor, and courage with Dr. Butler and The L.E.A.D. Agency. Your insights, questions, and stories are the heart of this learning journey.
We welcome dialogue, questions, and continued exploration as we deepen our commitment to participatory approaches and to building systems where communities have both voice and power.
In partnership, with love,
Alece H.M. Montez & Kristi Petrie
Co-Executive Directors
AJL Foundation
