The Beveridge Family Foundation’s Racial Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging (REDIB) Journey
Throughout history, in the United States and across the globe, we have seen the oppression of many populations and communities, discrimination against ethnic and religious groups, the mistreatment of individuals based on skin color, gender identity, national origin, age, and more. At the Beveridge Family Foundation (BFF), we are committed to our journey of Racial Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (REDIB). We are dedicated to doing the internal work within our Board and to foster an environment where all voices are heard and diversity is celebrated. We continue to evolve and adapt toward the goal of ensuring our grant programs and initiatives reflect these values. The learning process is never complete; yet we are determined in our efforts, alongside so many others, to create a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
The Beveridge Family Foundation has partnered with Inclusive Strategies, LLC. to collaborate in creating solutions aimed at reducing philanthropic bias, engaging in learning strategies, and re-imagining our mission within the REDIB framework in order to create more meaningful impact. We established the REDIB Committee with the goal of examining the core values of the foundation and developing an equity plan.
We define REDIB as:
BFF – Racial Equity – BFF understands that racial equity has been integral to philanthropy for over a century, with a focus on addressing inequities and social justice. We further recognize the many shortcomings in that history. Our founder’s legacy is anchored on principles of inclusion. The nation’s racial reckoning renewed our ongoing commitment to evaluate our practices and priorities.
BFF – Diversity – BFF endeavors to include different perspectives, ideas and experiences in philanthropic decision making.
BFF – Inclusion – BFF’s role is to prioritize REDIB efforts, emphasize trust through an inclusive process, and embrace innovative approaches to address systemic biases. BFF understands our potential to drive change and address historical inequities. We want to implement transparent and equitable grantmaking processes that incorporate marginalized communities and address disparities.
BFF- Belonging – BFF seeks to engage diverse communities to understand their needs and support solutions to combat institutional bias and expand access. We support capacity-building initiatives within organizations led by marginalized groups to foster sustainable impact.
BFF Values:
Empowering Equity, Embracing Empathy, Enriching Leadership: At the core of the Beveridge Family Foundation is a commitment to promoting equity in our grant making. We approach our work with a spirit of empathy and love for community, recognizing that every individual deserves access to opportunities and support. Through enhancing family leadership and governance intentionally aligned with our values, we strive to foster positive change and lasting impact in Western Massachusetts.
Together, as a family foundation, we aim to champion these values within the communities we serve. To help promote effective and responsible philanthropy, we are dedicated to a goal to improve society and promote racial equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We are committed to listening, learning, growing, and evolving as a family, recognizing that embracing these values enriches our collective experience and strengthens our communities.