#United States #Boulder, Colorado #Mission Telecom #Grassroots Movements #Telecom Justice

Mission Telecom Giving Launches with $20 Million in Funding

In a bold initiative aimed at empowering grassroots movements across the United States, Mission Telecom has officially launched Mission Telecom Giving (MTG), committing to invest $20 million over the next five years. This program marks a significant shift in the approach to philanthropy, prioritizing unrestricted funding that enables organizations to drive political change and foster democratic engagement.

Vision and Commitment

The primary goal of MTG is to provide flexible funding to support advocates and movements that are working tirelessly to shape a more equitable future. With a focused investment of $4 million for the year 2025, the initiative aims to create a conducive environment for multiracial democracy, bolster movement-building efforts, and advance telecom justice.

Ashindi Maxton, the Director of Mission Telecom Giving, emphasizes the necessity of responsive philanthropy in today’s challenging socio-political landscape: "This historical moment demands that philanthropy steps into systems change work with the most powerful resources we can offer. We believe in shifting power to those closest to the solutions, and fully trusting them to lead with their own autonomy and vision."

Addressing Philanthropic Challenges

In recent years, many grassroots organizations have struggled with restrictive funding models that limit their potential for advocacy and change. A prevalent survey indicated that 80% of funders recognized that philanthropy was not adequately addressing the complex realities faced by the nonprofit sector and society at large.

MTG aims to forge a new path by offering long-term, movement-led resources that encourage social and political transformation. Rather than adhering to a conventional funding framework, MTG proposes a risk-tolerant approach, ensuring that grantees maintain the autonomy necessary to mobilize effectively in their communities.

Grassroots Grantees

MTG is committed to collaborating with over 50 organizations nationwide that align with its three strategic pillars. Some key grantees include:

• - Down Home North Carolina: This organization is devoted to mobilizing working-class communities to fortify democracy from the grassroots level.
• - Advance Native Political Leadership: A national initiative aimed at amplifying the representation of Native Americans in various political offices.
• - We Must Vote: Based in Mississippi, this program focuses on fostering voter engagement and education in rural communities.
• - Black Campaign School: A leadership program dedicated to building Black political power.

The collective work of these organizations highlights the essential grassroots efforts needed to advocate for democratic engagement and systemic change. As Todd Zimmer from Down Home North Carolina states, "Mission Telecom Giving meets us where we are—rooted in our communities, building power from the ground up. They give us trust, flexibility, and the freedom to lead."

Evolving Philanthropy

Philanthropy has often struggled to recognize Indigenous leadership and other marginalized perspectives. Anathea Chino of Advance Native Political Leadership articulated this sentiment by saying, "Philanthropy must evolve to recognize that Indigenous leadership is not just a seat at the table—it is the table itself." This perspective reinforces the need for commitment towards funding movements that emphasize community-led initiatives and cultural representation.

We Must Vote's Executive Director, Toni Johnson, echoed the importance of such partnerships. "Through our transformative partnership with Mission Telecom, we have significantly expanded our reach and deepened our impact across Mississippi. Their investment in civic engagement has empowered justice-impacted individuals to reclaim their voting rights."

Shaping the Future

As society continues to face challenges that threaten democracy, investing in grassroots empowerment is more critical than ever. Jessica Byrd, President of Black Campaign School, emphasizes that "True social change starts with those most affected by injustice."

By prioritizing funding that promotes movement leadership, MTG represents a forward-thinking approach in philanthropy, aiming to foster significant, lasting change across communities in need.

To explore more about Mission Telecom Giving and its initiatives, visit MissionTelecomGiving.org.