Native Americans in Philanthropy (NAP) started its journey 20 years ago. Throughout this journey NAP has committed to advancing philanthropic practices grounded in Native values and traditions. We are proud of the path that we have traveled and the role NAP has played in the philanthropic sector through education, engagement and empowerment strategies.

In 2009 & 2010, Native Americans in Philanthropy Board of Directors crafted our strategic framework that serves as the guiding posts for our work as we move forward. Through gatherings nationally and regionally over the past two years, NAP continued to advance dialogue in the field of philanthropy and Indian Country, strengthened our internal governance standards, and built staff capacity. We invested infrastructure systems to create on a progressive framework prepared to help manage the anticipated growth, including website upgrade and increased social networking capabilities. The Native Philanthropy Institutes continue to expand relationship building, trust, knowledge sharing and action for grantmakers with strategic impact intentions and for nonprofits learning to access resources. Most importantly, Native Americans in Philanthropy’s membership base grew stronger, more engaged and poised for action.

We enter a new decade and a new direction for our journey. This path brings us to a place of transition. After seven years of blazing the path as Executive Director, Joy Persall transitioned the NAP’s staff leadership to a new trailblazer, Carly Hare.

Native Americans in Philanthropy will continue to advance dialogue in the field of philanthropy and Indian Country through gatherings nationally and regionally. Through our new regional action network organizing approach – and 20th Anniversary Journey – we are fostering philanthropic engagement that is committed to the well being of Native people and their families. NAP is organizing a movement building campaign “Weaving Leadership, Indigenous People and Resources”. We are excited about the future, the opportunities and deepening relationships, as we gather with you in regional dialogue and movement building.

We look forward to seeing you on the journey!  For a copy of our FY2009-10 please click here.

Hiriwe Turahe,

Carly Hare (Pawnee/Yankton)