Middle Tennessee Donors Forum

Leadership Development

Connecting donors and community leaders to build a stronger, more inclusive funding ecosystem.

The Middle Tennessee Donors Forum sought to bridge the operational and cultural gap between philanthropy and community-based organizations. WOCC facilitated a learning series that brought together foundation CEOs, program officers, trustees, and corporate social responsibility leaders to reflect on their practices, share ideas, and explore more equitable ways to engage with local nonprofits.

  • WOCC designed and facilitated the Council Leadership Learning series, crafting an interactive agenda that prioritized candid conversation, shared learning, and practical application. We guided participants—foundation CEOs, program officers, trustees, corporate social responsibility directors, and other philanthropic leaders—through equity-centered frameworks and real-world case discussions. Our facilitation style combined reflective exercises, peer exchange, and scenario-based problem solving to surface both challenges and opportunities in philanthropic practice.

    • Expanded shared language for equitable grantmaking among philanthropic leaders

    • Increased understanding of operational and cultural barriers faced by community-based organizations

    • Strengthened relationships between funders and grassroots leaders

    • Inspired immediate adjustments to grant applications, reporting requirements, and funding processes

    • Fostered ongoing collaboration and commitment to aligning funding strategies with community needs

    • Middle Tennessee Donors Forum leadership

    • Foundation executives, trustees, and program officers

    • Corporate social responsibility leaders

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