News
August 23rd, 2026
Opening Doors. Building Community. Investing in Belonging
There is something powerful about showing up—not just to write a check, but to listen, learn, build relationships, and understand the people and communities behind the work we fund.
This September, we’re bringing that philosophy to life through our Partnership Engagement Visit at Open Doors English. Open Doors English is so much more than an English language program. It is a place where adult learners from around the world build confidence, friendships, skills, and connections to their community. Their classes help students navigate everyday life, pursue education and employment, and participate more fully in the community.
And September feels like the right time to have this conversation.
As we enter Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month (September 15–October 15), we’re reminded of the richness, resilience, and contributions of immigrant and Latino communities. September also brings National Voter Registration Day, a reminder that civic participation and having a voice in our communities are fundamental to an inclusive democracy.
For me, this is where DEI, engagement, and philanthropy intersect.
Equity-centered philanthropy asks us to look beyond what an organization does and spend time understanding who they serve, what barriers they are navigating, what strengths already exist within the community, and what support will actually make a difference.
That requires us to get out from behind our desks.
It means sitting in classrooms. Listening to community members. Asking questions. Building trust. Seeing the work firsthand. And allowing what we learn to shape how we show up as funders and as community members.
Engagement is philanthropy. Listening is philanthropy. Relationships are philanthropy.
And when we invest in organizations like Open Doors English, we are investing in more than a program—we are investing in belonging, access, connection, and the ability for people to fully participate in the community they call home.
I’m looking forward to opening the door—literally and figuratively—and inviting our community to learn alongside us. Because stronger philanthropy starts with stronger relationships. And stronger communities are built when we choose to show up, listen, and learn together.
#CommunityEngagement #EquityInAction #TrustBasedPhilanthropy #DEI #CommunityFoundation #OpenDoorsEnglish #Philanthropy #Belonging #Ithaca