Power Dynamics and Working Together to Get Past Them

Certain things are just made to go together. They make sense and create a certain magic when they partner. Of course, they are special on their own but their pairing only strengthens their individual talents. (Consider the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup–one of the most famous strength-of-pairing examples.)

At EPIP and YNPN, we want to leverage special pairings for social change.

Philosophically and at the National level, EPIP and YNPN have seen each other as partners for a long time. Both EPIP and YNPN members are social entrepreneurs dedicated to making the world a better place. And both groups know that innovation comes when nonprofit and foundation professionals bring their different perspectives to the table to problem solve.

We believe power dynamics are a major cause of differences between nonprofit and foundations professionals and we need to address these power dynamics between funders and grantees to ensure a thriving partnership. As powerful allies building a more just, equitable, and sustainable society, we must begin to work through these dynamics.

This video highlights the importance of recognizing power dynamics and working together to get past them.