4. How to Create Inclusive Communities that Thrive - Yolanda F. Johnson
Listen to this episode
Overview
Meet Yolanda F. Johnson. She's building communities where everyone has a place. The Manhattan-based entrepreneur, fundraiser and author advocates for voices who need to be heard. She is the founder of YFJ Consulting and WOC - Women of Color in Fundraising and Philanthropy. She serves as the President of Women in Development New York, the New York City areas premier fundraising organization. She works to deliver communities where this philosophy is the norm. Inclusion and empathy drive this interview toward more empathy.
“In fundraising and philanthropy we are the lights illuminating the path for the good work to be done.”
How her performance art background helped her become a master fundraiser (All The World’s a Stage)
Calming your nerves before a major gift ask
The creation and mission of WOC - Women of Color in Fundraising and Philanthropy
Importance of Diversity in Fundraising to change giving trends and cultivate abundance
Actionable steps to move towards more inclusive and diverse organizations
Allies in Action: Education, Legislation, Inclusion, Action
Redefining what it means to be a “Philanthropist”
Powerful Quotes:
“ When my presidency was announced, I started getting this outpouring of messages from women of color in the field saying, “I finally see someone that looks like me, now I feel like there is a place for me.” - Yolanda
“There needed to be a space for the unique experience of being a women of color in this profession.” -Yolanda
“We have to take actionable and measurable steps that are realistic, change takes time. For it to become systemic it has to become the norm.” -Yolanda
“Fundraising started getting its respect in the 80’s and 90’s as a true profession. Now the layers of work need to be done for women and women of color.” -Yolanda
“Voices need to be heard from strategy, leadership, and giving opportunities to give different perspectives is so important.” -Yolanda
“We need to even the playing ground as far as salaries, positions, and diverse teams.” -Yolanda
“There is so much at stake especially at this moment in time in our country.” -Yolanda
“It is not a black person’s responsibility to teach white people about racism.” -Yolanda
“Life is short. While you are in the present think about your desired end result and want you want to be doing to fulfill your purpose. Live your life in a way that connects dots.” -Yolanda
Helpful Links
DEI From the Inside Out - Yolanda’s article in The Chronicle of Philanthropy
