The election may be over, but uncertainty, fear, and political unrest in our country continues. Contention over the results, divisions over politics and policy, fears about the pandemic, ongoing racial unrest, nervousness about national and personal economic concerns – the nerves of our nation are raw, leaving changemakers to wonder,…
Upswell’s final day began with a Main Stage moment that might have seemed implausible a few years ago. Stephen Heintz – who as the head of the Rockefeller Brothers Fund represents one of the most influential philanthropic organizations in the country, resourced by the accumulated wealth of one of the…
As this year has reminded us so frequently, there’s no substitute for being together in person. Yet there is a silver lining to Upswell 2020 being entirely virtual: we can record things. Day 2 of Upswell felt like an experience of hardwiring oneself directly into the collective mind of the…
How do you begin an experience like Upswell 2020 – one that is designed to both wrestle with the painful truths our society faces and embrace the optimism required to heal our communities and nation? It turns out the answer is straightforward: by getting comfortable with that deeply uncomfortable dichotomy.…
/ By Debra Rainey / We’ve collectively endured the trauma of the past six months, being consistently reminded about how lack of trust, empathy, leadership, and preparedness continue to be fatal flaws in our systems. Upswell Pop-Up #6 gave us the opportunity to step back, take a breath, and consider…
/ By Debra Rainey / Harsh realities experienced during childhood can sometimes sharpen the focus and dogged commitment for one’s life’s work as an adult. That is the case for Tawakkol Karman, who grew up in Yemen during a time of great of great tumult and unrest, and went on…
Who among us could have foreseen at the start of 2020 where we’d be today – contending with a worldwide health emergency that threatens us all, limiting where we can go, what we can do, who we see – and with no end in sight? We’ve also been forced to…
Dr. Shirin Ebadi was an accomplished attorney, and one of Iran’s first female judges. She also served as president of the city court of Tehran from 1975 to 1979 and was the first Iranian woman to achieve Chief Justice status. But that all changed when she and other women judges…
Trust is a fragile thing. Hard to gain, and harder still to gain back if it is lost. We know from our recent survey on trust in civil society that there is broad trust in the ability of nonprofits to strengthen society – trust we want to hold onto and…
2020 has been an unexpected year. It shouldn’t have been, of course, because the writing has been on the wall. The fatal flaws in our systems – lack of trust, lack of empathy, lack of leadership, lack of preparedness — are not new. The racial injustice that has consistently and…
Have you ever met someone who personally ended a civil war? If the answer is no – and our hunch is that it might be – July 14 is your big chance to do so. For Upswell Pop-Up #4, we’re proud and excited to host a dynamic conversation with Nobel…
Simply acknowledging that inequity exists isn’t enough. We are duty-bound to leverage every ounce of our energy, empathy, intelligence, and power as individuals and as a sector to be a force that helps drives the change that is needed to create a more just and equitable America. Upswell Pop-Up #3…
Creating transformative change often requires doing something different. You’ve gotta take different approaches; be open to different ideas from new people; collaborate with different people who share your dream; and after thoughtful consideration, forge ahead with dogged resolve to make a difference. And sometimes, with determination, grit, and a little…
Ever find yourself thinking, “I can’t really make a difference. What can one person do?” How about secure a ban on landmines? Promote human rights, particularly the rights of women, children, and political prisoners in Iran? Lead a women’s peace movement that brought an end to the Second Liberian Civil…
// by Debra Rainey, Independent Sector The troubling events of the last week are demanding that we take an immediate and actionable look at our belief systems and values — as individuals, as a community of changemakers, and as a nation – and how each of us can help provide…
/ By Debra Rainey / If you were among the 500 changemakers who joined us “in the Zoom where it happened” for our first Upswell Pop-Up, you know it was a bit different from other Zoom gatherings you may have experienced. Pop-Up #1 fed our souls with uplifting kernels of…
2020 is not the year we expected it be. For any of us. The pandemic has severely disrupted our routines and rhythms, put enormous strain on our resources, and devastated our communities – especially those already disproportionately suffering from systemic inequities. That’s the bad news. And it’s news to none…
Everything feels uncertain at the moment. That’s the reality. And with widespread cancellations and postponements happening at an unprecedented scale, you’re probably wondering what’s going on with Upswell. So, we want to share a few important updates. Most importantly, we’re still putting every ounce of energy we have into designing…
First things first: The co-creation campaign for Upswell 2020 is now officially open through April 24! That might be enough to cause you to do a fist-pump and sprint straight into a creative brainstorm. But if you’re still reading – especially if you’re new to Upswell – read on to…
Upswell is going to look a little different this year. Actually, scratch that. It’s going to look (and feel) a lot different. With two years now under our belts, we’ve been brainstorming and blueprinting a year three that will launch Upswell so much higher than to the next level. Year…
Last November, when Reverend Jen Bailey came to Chicago from Nashville, Tennessee to attend Upswell, she expected to meet up with old colleagues, and learn from leaders that she’d long followed as executive director of Faith Matters Network. She also works with the Greater Good Science Center on how changemakers…
/ by Debra Rainey / Upswell is about reimagining — how we think, collaborate, and develop solutions to community challenges. It’s also about reimagining where we do those things. Pittsburgh’s Nova Place is the site of Upswell 2020, October 14-16. But don’t think of it as our meeting place. Instead, it’s…
By Christina Hachikian The following blog is adapted from a recent presentation at Upswell Chicago. When community organizers, philanthropists, nonprofit leaders, artists, and corporate CSR leaders gathered at Upswell Chicago, a central theme was how to build a more diverse and inclusive world. These days, it’s actively being discussed…
/ by Victor Reinoso / We know what you might be thinking: didn’t Upswell Chicago just wrap up? If there’s just one thing to know about Upswell, it’s that it’s an ever-growing wave of energy. Or to put it another way, it doesn’t start and stop. Our shared opportunity — at…
On the final day of a massive event, you might imagine that folks are a little drained. But as we all know, changemakers are nothing if not resilient. True to form, the Upswell community brought with them a final, powerful surge of energy and passion to cap off three days…
If you’ve gotten an email from Upswell (and we bet you have), you’ve probably noticed a tagline: boundless potential. We love that concept, perhaps obviously, because it’s both the perfect descriptor of a changemaker’s value in the world and a challenge for us to collectively strive for more. And that spirit…
For months, we’ve been promising an immersive Chicago experience. What we didn’t anticipate was a mid-Autumn arctic blast that plunged the Windy City into the low teens! But when it comes to changing the world, cold weather is a minor inconvenience. So, on the first morning of Upswell, hundreds of…
Mindful leadership is rooted in self awareness. And the inner work you do directly impacts your outer work — not only how you show up at work, but also how you show up in your life. But what happens when changemakers — who focus squarely on improving the lives of…
Human-centered design grows ever-more important as the social sector struggles to do more with less, and sector leaders search for new and different ways to gain greater access to the communities they serve. But how do you identify a designer who is aligned and in-tune with your organization’s mission and…
George Aye found he had a lot to learn when transitioning from commercial design to human-centered design. And what he’ll share with sector leaders in his workshop will inform their decisions when selecting designers best-suited to help them meet the needs of the communities they serve. Learn more about George,…
Getting into Chicago a little early? You can watch emerging social entrepreneurs pitch innovative project ideas designed to solve environmental challenges at BOOST*, an Upswell Plus event on Tuesday evening. During this crowd-funded pitchfest, a live audience will vote with their ticket contributions to determine two winners, each of whom…
Upswell Chicago begins in less than two weeks now! We hope you’ve had a chance to save your spot to experience some of the immersive community events happening during the main event this November! The lineup features 19 thoughtfully designed experiences in all – including seven community dinners and twelve…
In the aftermath of the 2016 elections, our country continues to be pulled apart by differences, rather than bound and strengthened by what connects us. UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center (GGSC) is trying to address this issue head-on through its Bridging Differences initiative, which mixes science and storytelling to…
It’s become something of a tradition to seek out a local artist to create the physical NGen Leadership Award, ensuring that each year’s winner has a keepsake that is unique and meaningful – and this year is no exception. We found Chad Kouri through the nonprofit Hyde Park Art Center…
Upswell Chicago begins in less than three weeks now! We hope you’ve had a chance to save your spot to experience some of the immersive community events happening during the main event this November! The lineup features 18 thoughtfully designed experiences in all – including seven community dinners and eleven…
Sign up for the Marwen Community Dinner – and you’re in for a double treat! Not only will you learn about the origin of this nonprofit organization that provides free visual arts courses to Chicago school students. You’ll also enjoy a wonderful dinner buffet – but more about that later. Located…
If your charitable organization does fundraising, make sure it stays on the right side of state charitable solicitation regulations. For some help doing that, don’t miss a workshop presented by nonprofit-dedicated law firm Perlman & Perlman for a primer on avoiding traps that might trip up even the most compliant…
Did you know there are more than 296,000 ways to experience Upswell? It’s true. We double-checked our math. With hundreds of different activities (and counting) happening over three days – many concurrently – there are literally hundreds of thousands of unique journeys through Upswell Chicago. That might sound overwhelming, but…
Chicago, home to Upswell this November, is also home to the third largest urban Native American population in the country, with more than 100 tribal nations represented. Upswell Chicago will open with a land acknowledgement that recognizes and respects Indigenous Peoples as the original stewards of the land, and reminds…
Upswell Chicago is now less than a month away! We hope you’ve had a chance to save your spot to experience some of the immersive community events happening during the main event this November! The lineup features 18 thoughtfully designed experiences in all – including seven community dinners and eleven…
Each year, Independent Sector’s NGen Leadership Award is presented to one changemaker age 40 or younger who has demonstrated transformative impact and collaborative leadership in addressing a critical societal need. Historically, this award has been a bellwether. It’s awarded annually to a changemaker who’s already doing astonishing work and staying…
Join Silvia Paz during her Upswell Chicago Spark Talk for an eye-opening discussion about the role that narrative and society’s deeply held beliefs play in advancing equity. Silvia is among the six finalists vying for the 2019 NGen Leadership Award, presented annually to a changemaker age 40 or younger who…
Join Rochelle Keyhan for a Turn the Curve discussion about how sex workers and sex trafficking survivors can collaborate and achieve common goals to secure passage and adoption of thoughtful public policies that address these two societal concerns. Rochelle is among the six finalists vying for the 2019 NGen Leadership…
Join Caroline Whistler during her Upswell Chicago Spark Talk to find out how government and community partnerships are being reimagined to support community residents in reaching their full potential. Caroline is among the six finalists vying for the 2019 NGen Leadership Award, presented annually to a changemaker age 40 or…
Join James Dold for his Upswell Chicago Spark Talk to learn how his challenging life story taught him how the power of love can transform suffering into hope, and how hardship experiences can help you become a better and more effective changemaker. James is among the six finalists vying for…
The dangers of vaping remain at the top of the headlines. Join Megan Jacobs during her Upswell Chicago Spark Talk to learn how she’s helping young people stop vaping through a text messaging program that shares the advice of other young people who have quit e-cigarettes. Megan is among the six…
Research shows that nonprofits are among America’s most trusted information sources. And while they may be well positioned to help those they serve participate in civic engagement, Lindsay Torrico says we often don’t know how to do that. Lindsay, senior director of policy and advocacy at United Way Worldwide and…
Nonprofits are great at delivering services, and at advocating on behalf of those they serve. But, when it comes to encouraging advocacy by community residents, well, that’s another story. “2020 will be a big year, a huge year in terms of shaping our democracy. We have the presidential election and…
With Upswell Chicago now just five weeks away, we hope you’ve had a chance to save your spot to experience some of the immersive community events happening during the main event this November! The lineup includes 18 thoughtfully designed experiences in all – including seven community dinners and eleven Chicago…
Gillian Gonda, program director for engagement at Fetzer Institute, will co-present the Upswell workshop, “The Changing Landscape of Religion, Spirituality, and Identity in America,” which will offer preliminary findings from Fetzer’s Study of Spirituality in America. The insights might cause you to re-think the connection between your spiritual values and…
Can a deeper understanding of the connection between our inner life and our work in the world help us better execute our missions and engage more effectively in communities? Fetzer Institute’s Study of Spirituality in America is uncovering important nuances in the meaning of religion and spirituality to people today…
Want to help your community take direct action in rapid response moments and strengthen your long-term fundraising? Go digital! In the Upswell workshop, “Bottling Lightning with Digital Fundraising,” co-presenter Adri Rosembert of ActBlue will share tools and best practices you can use to develop an adaptable digital fundraising program, and…
Adri Rosembert, nonprofit outreach manager at ActBlue and former organizer, wants to change how people think about digital fundraising. They want changemakers to “believe in the power of grassroots donors to move the dial forward and make a real impact on the ability of organizations to their work.” And their…
After months of meetings, thousands of Post-It notes, and countless emails, you might think the Upswell Accelerator would be feeling a little … spent. Instead, as members gather for the next-to-last time on a late summer afternoon, there’s a surprising energy in the room. The agenda includes report-outs from five…
In the context of Upswell, we’ve talked an awful lot about the idea of “pushing the bounds of what’s possible.” Or, in a similar vein, maybe you’ve seen the phrase “boundless potential” pop up a time or two in reference to Upswell. This lens is important to us. But it’s…
We hope you’ve had a chance to check out the lineup for Chicago Inside & Out – about a dozen thoughtfully designed experiences, all guided by dynamic community leaders across Chicago. These immersive tours are a cornerstone of the Upswell experience, which is all about going deep locally to uncover…
Election results can have a huge impact on our work and our missions. But how do we get the 2020 candidates focused on our most critical concerns? Join Ben Kershaw, Independent Sector’s director of public policy and government relations, for the Upswell workshop, “What Do We Want from the 2020…
With the 2020 election cycle underway, the nonprofit community has a tremendous opportunity to get our most pressing issues on the radar of current candidates and future legislators. But to really harness the sector’s energy, “all of us, collectively, must be driving in the same direction and asking the right…
We know we’re stronger when we work together – and that applies to rural and urban communities. Paul Daugherty, president and CEO of Philanthropy West Virginia, will join co-presenters during the Upswell workshop, “Building Rural & Urban Partnerships for a Stronger America,” to correct assumptions about rural communities and rural…
For a stronger America that enables all to prosper, rural and urban communities must “bridge divides and come together to address common issues, adapt their practices, and develop deeper, stronger partnerships to solve issues and build the social sector,” says Paul Daugherty, president and CEO of Philanthropy West Virginia. During…
Marie LeBlanc, Independent Sector Tiffney Marley, National Community Action Partnership Kristine Michie, DreamSpring Mareeha Niaz, Independent Sector Stephanie Peng, National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy Allison Ralph, Aspen Institute Inclusive America Project Zeenat Rahman, Inclusive America Project at the Aspen Institute Amy Rencher. Wayne State University Joshua Rivera, Poverty Solutions at…
We hope you’ve had a chance to check out the lineup for Chicago Inside & Out – about a dozen thoughtfully designed experiences, all guided by dynamic community leaders across Chicago. These immersive tours are a cornerstone of the Upswell experience, which is all about going deep locally to uncover…
How can innovative nonprofit leaders convince philanthropists that their ideas to address the country’s toughest problems are worth a big bet? Find out during the Upswell workshop, “Becoming Big Bettable,” presented by William Foster, partner at The Bridgespan Group. William says civil society organizations have an incredible track record when…
“There’s so much untapped potential for great nonprofit leaders to change the world if philanthropy can be unleashed productively, and Upswell is the best gathering place to be with remarkable leaders.” So says William Foster, partner at The Bridgespan Group and head of consulting at the firm. With a growing…
According to The Hop Review, “For many Chicagoans familiar with the city’s indie arts and culture scene, indie publication scene, bar and dining scene, craft beer scene—or just the neighborhood of Bridgeport in general—it’s likely they’ve heard of Ed Marszewski. Simply put, the co-founder of Marz Community Brewing Co. has…
We hope you’ve had a chance to check out the lineup for Chicago Inside & Out – a dozen thoughtfully designed experiences, all guided by dynamic community leaders across Chicago. These immersive tours are a cornerstone of the Upswell experience, which is all about going deep locally to uncover enriching…
Want to tell your story to millions of people? StoryCorps, a national oral history project, is coming to Upswell’s Public Square this November and changemakers like you will have a chance to record your story in their MobileBooth. Who has been the biggest influence on your life as a changemaker?…
Kenny Johnson is a natural marketer, promoter, event planner, and entrepreneur, with a passion for public service. He’s been at it for almost 30 years, ever since he was a 19-year-old student at the University of Virginia. The Bureau Bar and Restaurant, which opened earlier this year, is Kenny’s fourth…
Could we alleviate poverty more quickly if scholars, communities, and policymakers worked together? H. Luke Shaefer, Ph.D. thinks so. He’s director of Poverty Solutions at the University of Michigan, and says data and action-based partnerships can help changemakers make headway on the intractable challenge of poverty. Read on to learn…
Imagine the progress we could make toward ending poverty if scholars, communities, and policymakers worked collaboratively on this complex and intractable issue. Luke Shaefer, Ph.D., director of Poverty Solutions at the University of Michigan, says “there’s tremendous potential in action-based partnerships between communities and university researchers to really make headway…
The community dinner at Sinhá (pronounced Seen-yah’, which means “lady of the house”) may be happening in Chicago, but rest assured the delectable cuisine will be 100% Brazilian. As noted on their website, “The food preparation is totally authentic and so is the chef.” That chef is Jorgina Pereira –…
What kind of language do you use to talk about civic engagement? Perhaps you, like many working in this corner of changework, use terms like activism, justice, and democratic participation. Have you considered how words like those may resonate with some audiences but not others? Adiel Suarez-Murias, communications and marketing…
These days, words like activism, equity, justice, and democracy are commonplace in our field, describing both the values and substance of our work. But what do these words mean to everyday Americans? Earlier this year, Philanthropy for Active Civic Engagement (PACE) released the findings of its Civic Language Perceptions Project,…
We hope you’ve had a chance to check out the lineup for Chicago Inside & Out – a dozen thoughtfully designed experiences, all guided by dynamic community leaders across Chicago. These immersive tours are a cornerstone of the Upswell experience, which is all about going deep locally to uncover enriching…
In the workshop, “How to Create Resilient Systems Change,” Robert Albright, director of programs at FSG – Collective Impact Forum, will join Thrive Chicago Chief Strategy Officer Christina Krasov for a primer on Thrive’s collaboration to accelerate innovation for Chicago’s youth. We caught up with Robert and Christina to learn…
You’ve navigated the complexities of working collectively with organizations and individuals that share your goal of solving a social inequity issue. You’ve made good progress. But how do you keep the momentum going and create systems that last? How do you ensure the change you’ve made sticks? If you’re about…
Emilia Chico and Steven Rosado recently led focus groups in two of Chicago’s predominantly Latinx neighborhoods as the Upswell Accelerator sought to hear from community stakeholders in creating a racial equity framework. After giving them a week or so to collect their thoughts, we asked the two moderators to reflect,…
Let’s be honest. Talking about race and ethnicity can be uncomfortable. But would it be less uncomfortable in an environment where you feel more at ease, like say, your living room? That’s the premise of Living Room Conversations, a conversational model designed to revitalize civil discourse through conversation. As a…
During the Upswell workshop, “How to Talk about Race and Ethnicity,” you’ll join Mary Gaylord, managing partner of Living Room Conversations, in a “living room like” environment to share, listen, and help advance understanding. Find out more about Mary, including what she likes about the 60s, and why we must work…
When filling out demographic information on a registration form, have you ever stopped to consider the line that’s often labeled “Race/Ethnicity”? That slash may seem like a small thing, but at a recent focus group in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago, it is an obvious source of consternation and confusion.…
Darren Isom, Bridgespan partner and former executive director of Memphis Music Initiative, wants philanthropic organizations to be intentional about equitable giving, and will lead a frank conversation about it during his Upswell workshop, “Enough Talk — How Foundations Can Live Their Racial Equity Strategy.” He also leads his life guided…
Darren Isom, Bridgespan partner and former executive director of Memphis Music Initiative, says everyone may be talking about equity, but there’s a huge disconnect between how the philanthropic sector thinks about giving, and how organizations live equitable strategies internally. It’s time to talk about how that disconnect can compromise implementation…
Theaster Gates – an internationally renowned artist, academic, and urban planner – creates works that engage with space theory and land development, sculpture and performance. Known for his recirculation of art-world capital, Gates upturns art values, land values, and human values. In all aspects of his work, he contends with…
Upswell Chicago is just 10 weeks away, and the schedule is still growing by the day! We have some big news on the way and are continuing to highlight some of the workshops, people, and community events – like this tour and this dinner happening in Bronzeville – that will…
Nicole A. Ozer is co-presenting the workshop, “A Digital Policy Roadmap for Civil Society.” She is Technology & Civil Liberties Director at the ACLU of California, but has been on sabbatical this year working with Stanford University on a research project investigating the challenges and opportunities for civil society to…
Nicole A. Ozer, technology and civil liberties director at the ACLU of California, has spent her sabbatical working with Stanford University on a study of “digital civil society” and how funders and institutions can better support civil society organizations in addressing their core missions in the digital age. So what…
We hope you’ve had a chance to check out the lineup for Chicago Inside & Out – a dozen thoughtfully designed experiences, all guided by dynamic community leaders across Chicago. These immersive tours are a cornerstone of the Upswell experience, which is all about going deep locally to uncover enriching…
Caroline Altman Smith, deputy director of the Kresge Foundation’s education program, is co-presenting a Thursday workshop at Upswell Chicago alongside AchieveMission’s Mikaela Seligman and ProInspire’s Monisha Kapila—two providers from Kresge’s 2018 FUEL (Fostering Urban Equitable Leadership) program cohort. We caught up with Caroline to learn more about what motivates her.…
While many nonprofits work to create more equitable outcomes in communities, limited resource capacity can strain their ability to tackle the complex, systemic issues associated with this work. The Kresge Foundation is addressing this gap in support through a capacity-building program that supports its grantees’ talent and leadership development needs…
Owner Darrell Green says, “It’s the kind of food you actually experience. You don’t just eat it.” So plan to experience delicious home-style Southern cuisine and the service and attention of a fine dining restaurant when you sign up for the Pearl’s Place Community Dinner at Upswell Chicago. Pearl’s Place…
We hope you’ve had a chance to check out this year’s lineup for Chicago Inside & Out – a dozen thoughtfully designed experiences, all guided by dynamic community leaders across Chicago. These immersive tours are a cornerstone of the Upswell experience, which is all about going deep locally to uncover…
At the DeColores Community Dinner at Upswell Chicago, you can expect “a wonderful dining experience with wonderfully home-cooked recipes,” says owner and chef Sergio Reyes. The Mexican eatery and bar is located on Chicago’s Lower West Side in Pilsen – home to the National Museum of Mexican Art and an art…
Jackie Rosa, director of community engagement at United Way of Metro Chicago, gave us a heads up previously on the Upswell blog – Chicagoans like to party! And not just on weekend nights. In fact, during the summer, they like to break the workday by sitting outside, catching some rays,…
Research can drive decisions about investment in communities. And unintended research bias can lead to ineffective approaches and inequitable resources and opportunities that prevent all young people from fully thriving. Chicago Beyond’s guidebook, Why Am I Always Being Researched?, is intended to level the playing field; reckon with unintended research…
Liz Dozier, Founder and CEO of Chicago Beyond, has been in the philanthropic space for a relatively short time, but she’s spent her life serving the community, including as a school principal. In the Upswell workshop, “Taking the Bias Out of Social Impact Research,” Liz will share insights to help…
Here’s a conversation starter to keep in your back pocket for this Thanksgiving, a humblebrag of sorts – “In Chicago, I had a fascinating conversation with someone who is changing the world in truly incredible ways.” Now, the thing about Upswell is that this particular statement will be true about…
Almost anything can change for the better when good food is involved. For Chicago residents impacted by homelessness and poverty, good food can be life-changing – especially when served with encouragement and supported through culinary training – the house specialties at Inspiration Kitchens. The social enterprise restaurant in East Garfield…
The Roddenberry Foundation has put its money where its mouth is – making a $1 million investment in the Roddenberry Fellowship program to support activists nationwide who are working to protect the most vulnerable and make the U.S. more inclusive and equitable. You’ll hear about the Fellows’ experience during the…
Some events are so stunning that they compel us to action. Such was the impact of the 2016 elections on the philanthropic community – and The Roddenberry Foundation, in particular. In response, the foundation launched the Roddenberry Fellowship, a $1 million investment in activists, community organizers, and disrupters who are…
Kimberly Walker, Associate Director, Learning and Development, Arabella Advisors and Ph.D. candidate, Leadership and Change, Antioch University, will lead the charge during the Upswell workshop, Identifying and Managing Power in Social Change Work. Check out more about her, including the experience that has left a lasting impression on her work…
When power shows up in the room, does it appear in ways you may not have considered? Is it helping or hindering your equity work and efforts to create sustainable community and systems change? The Upswell workshop Identifying and Managing Power in Social Change Work will address the issue of power head…
/ by Christian Clansky / One could argue that, in a world continually marked by division, there’s something approaching a universal appeal about the perfect summer day. On this particular one in Chicago – a high-70s, lightly breezy, blessedly crisp Saturday – the North Lawndale community is taking full advantage…
This year’s NGen Leadership Award finalists are some of the most impressive and inspiring young changemakers we’ve ever seen. Each, in their own way, is making the world better – and we’d like you to know them better. You can meet all six finalists at Upswell Chicago, November 13-15, where…
Voting is open for the 2019 NGen Leadership Award through Friday, August 23 at 11:59pm PDT. Once the votes are counted, this year’s winner will be announced at Upswell this November. Here’s a heads up: Selecting just one winner from our six finalists will be tough. Each is an amazing…
Voting is open for the 2019 NGen Leadership Award through Friday, August 23 at 11:59pm PDT. Once the votes are counted, this year’s winner will be announced at Upswell this November. Here’s a heads up: Selecting just one winner from our six finalists will be tough. Each is an amazing…
Voting is open for the 2019 NGen Leadership Award through Friday, August 23 at 11:59pm PDT. Once the votes are counted, this year’s winner will be announced at Upswell this November. Here’s a heads up: Selecting just one winner from our six finalists will be tough. Each is an amazing…
Voting is open for the 2019 NGen Leadership Award through Friday, August 23 at 11:59pm PDT. Once the votes are counted, this year’s winner will be announced at Upswell this November. Here’s a heads up: Selecting just one winner from our six finalists will be tough. Each is an amazing…
Voting is open for the 2019 NGen Leadership Award through Friday, August 23 at 11:59pm PDT. Once the votes are counted, this year’s winner will be announced at Upswell this November. Here’s a heads up: Selecting just one winner from our six finalists will be tough. Each is an amazing…
Voting is open for the 2019 NGen Leadership Award through Friday, August 23 at 11:59pm PDT. Once the votes are counted, this year’s winner will be announced at Upswell this November. Here’s a heads up: Selecting just one winner from our six finalists will be tough. Each is an amazing…
Upswell Chicago is just 13 weeks away, and the schedule is still growing by the day! This week alone, we announced a range of reflection activities and interactive music experiences happening at Upswell as well as this year’s lineup of Chicago Community Dinners. Just today, we unveiled another set of…
We did, indeed! More workshops mean opportunities for new perspectives, fresh takes on stubborn challenges, and new approaches and ways of thinking from a variety of engaging experts who’ll inspire you to breathe new energy and determination into your mission work. This newest wave of workshops covers a range of…
If you want to experience Chicago like the average tourist, your culinary agenda is easy: loaded hot dogs for breakfast, Italian beef for lunch, and deep-dish pizza for dinner. Okay, maybe not in that order. Plus, you should probably also have a big serving of vegetables and Tums. But the…
Raymond Foxworth, vice president, grantmaking, development and communications at First Nations Development Institute, wants you to remember to engage Native communities in your DEI discussions, and he’ll drive that point home in his Upswell workshop, “DEI (Don’t Exclude Indians).” We caught up with Raymond to learn more about him, including…
Raymond Foxworth, vice president, grantmaking, development and communications at First Nations Development Institute, says conversations around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) often do not include Native Americans. He’s focused on changing that, and will advance the discussion about inclusion of Native people and communities during the Upswell workshop, “DEI (Don’t…
We hope you’ve had a chance to check out this year’s lineup for Chicago Inside & Out – a dozen thoughtfully designed experiences, all guided by dynamic community leaders across Chicago. These immersive tours are a cornerstone of the Upswell experience, which is all about going deep locally to uncover…
A few years after the turn the millennium, Chicago native Herbie Hancock donated some of his instruments to the Smithsonian. When asked what motivated the donation, the iconic jazz musician – the rarest of peers to the practically peerless Miles Davis – didn’t mention his place among the hallowed ranks…
For people from across sectors gathering to discuss social issues this November, Darlene Hightower can’t think of a better meeting place than Chicago – the city she loves, and also where she’s engaged in collaborative effort to address the health and social challenges of the city’s West Side. Darlene, vice…
Darlene Hightower, vice president of community health equity at Rush University Medical Center, says while her workshop topic, “Closing the Death Gap on Chicago’s West Side,” may be heavy, you can look forward to learning about the collaborative work underway to address West Side’s challenges in a “really interactive and…
At Upswell this November, you’ll learn how to stretch – a skill that’s maybe not occurred to you as critical to changework before. You may correctly suspect that some yoga-based practices are at the foundation of the activities designed to help you do this, but here’s an important disclaimer: this…
Can we really solve problems that are plaguing communities and create lasting social change without first listening to the people who are being impacted? For Lois Greco, senior vice president and evaluation officer at the Wells Fargo Regional Foundation, community engagement is key (learn more about Lois). For more than…
Lois Greco, senior vice president and evaluation officer at the Wells Fargo Regional Foundation, is co-presenting the Upswell workshop, “Learning to Let Your Community Lead.” She believes it’s important to allow people to be comfortable being authentic. She also shares her thoughts on the sector’s approach to solving problems, and…
Moya Shpuntoff, projects coordinator at the World Institute on Disability, hopes to shine a bright light on how intersectionality and disability rights tie in with diversity, inclusion, and changework during her Upswell workshop, “An Intersectional Approach to Disability Inclusion.” Of all the things she’s proud of, she’s most proud of…
Moya Shpuntoff was already set to attend Upswell Chicago – even before submitting a workshop proposal. She is projects coordinator at the World Institute on Disability, which has supported Upswell and its predecessor – Independent Sector’s annual conference – for several years now (learn more about Moya). Her supervisor suggested…
This week, Independent Sector (IS) announced Sherry Salway Black (Oglala Lakota) as the 2019 recipient the John W. Gardner Leadership Award. The award is named for the founding chair of IS, John W. Gardner. It is awarded annually to a distinguished leader whose career has embodied the work, spirit, and…
Sometime after 7:30pm, a longsuffering security guard ambles to the conference room door to check on the progress of the meeting inside, but almost no one notices him. At this precise moment, perhaps a dozen people are talking over themselves about the disappearance of black neighborhoods in Chicago. They’ve been…
Tom Tasche, co-presenter of the Upswell workshop, “Oh Behave! The Science of Behavior Change,” has a keen interest in global health and civic engagement. Find out more about this eternal optimist who has some pretty avant-garde opinions, including a big change he’d make in our voting process. Q: If you…
If you work with human beings (and who doesn’t?), don’t miss the Upswell workshop, “Oh Behave! The Science of Behavior Change.” Tom Tasche will reveal behavioral science principles you can use to improve your decision-making and actions, and be a more effective social changemaker. Tom is Senior Associate at ideas42,…
We first introduced you to Jessica Stern, co-founder and COO of Connect Our Kids, when the nonprofit was named winner of the inaugural Innovate for Good Challenge, launched in 2018 at Upswell LA and supported by Accenture and Independent Sector. Innovate for Good is intended to recognize organizations that are…
Wouldn’t it be great to meet our six finalists for the 2019 NGen Leadership Award in person? Well you can. They’ll all be on hand at Upswell Chicago, November 13-15! These outstanding next-generation changemakers are all in the running for this prestigious award, presented each year to one emerging changemaker…
Allen Smart, who’ll present the Upswell workshop, “Connecting With Rural Communities,” is a longtime foundation leader and current national rural philanthropy spokesperson who writes, presents, and provokes under his consulting practice, PhilanthropywoRx. He’s an expert on rural communities and philanthropy. He’s got a great speaking voice, too, which he used…
There are some assumptions about rural America and rural philanthropy that need to be addressed. Allen Smart will do just that during his Upswell workshop, “Connecting with Rural Communities.” He knows a thing or two about both, having spent a quarter of a century as a grantmaker with a focus…
Kimberly Peeler-Allen is the Co-founder of Higher Heights, the only national organization devoted to helping Black women harness their political power and advance progressive policies. In the movement building and fundraising space…well, we could say Kimberly has been around the block a time or two, but that would be a…
Remember the 2018 midterm elections? Once all the ballots were counted, the results were touted as historic, and for good reason. In addition to the highest voter turnout rate for a midterm in a century, we saw a number of milestones for women in federal office. While we know there’s…
Imagine being in Manhattan, New York. Or Frankfort, Kentucky. Or Anchorage, Alaska. Or any town, really. In any thriving community, there’s an exciting and unexpected rhythm to public activity. You wander down the street and bump into an old friend. Duck into a quirky store and discover a new passion.…
/ By Robert Jones / It’s 9am on a Monday morning following the July 4 weekend. Not a great time to schedule a meeting, perhaps, but the room is filling up, anyway. Extra chairs are brought in to accommodate participants who thought they couldn’t make it but somehow found the…
Selecting six finalists for the NGen Leadership Award is never a small feat. Whittling down the cream of the crop from this year’s 52 outstanding applicants was no exception. Each changemaker we considered had a track record of collaborating with others, strong ideas for a better world, and many examples…
Luis Gutierrez is founder and CEO of Latinos Progresando, a member of the Upswell Accelerator, and presenter of the Upswell workshop, “A Made-in-Chicago Model for Collaboration.” Find out how his positive outlook impacts his life, his work, and his advice for humanity. Q: If you could have dinner with any…
One organization doing community work may make things a little better, but many organizations collaborating together can create meaningful, lasting change. Luis Gutierrez says “collective impact” is the way, and he’ll share the “how” and resulting positive impact on Chicago’s Marshall Square neighborhood during Upswell’s “A Made-in-Chicago Model for Collaboration”…
In April, we launched our new Upswell registration model, which includes six options. The model was designed with the aim of democratizing access to Upswell—a goal that is overtly apparent in the Equity registration option. Changemakers who purchase the Equity option, in addition to securing their own Core Access registration…
The countdown to Upswell Chicago is on, and with just about four months to go, we’re excited to add 19 new speakers to the list of presenters who will open your eyes and ears to new ways of thinking about how you address issues in your communities. Are you looking…
José Rico, co-presenter of the Upswell workshop “Leading and ‘Living’ Community-Led Initiatives,” is senior vice president of community impact at United Way of Metro Chicago. We took some time to get to know José better – including what motivates him, who inspired his journey to changework, and his hidden superpower!…
The constant news drumbeat about challenges facing Chicago often drowns out the great work underway to strengthen the city’s neighborhoods. José Rico, chief partnership and initiatives officer at United Way of Metro Chicago, wants to change that (check out our Q&A with José). Along with lead agency Austin Coming Together,…
Upswell can bring together dynamic changemakers and put together a zany program with everything from traditional deep-dive workshops to group ukulele lessons. But at the end of the day, nobody can give you a more authentic experience or a sense of what’s happening on the ground in a city’s many…
/ By Debra Rainey / The word community evokes thoughts of identity, common interests, and acceptance. Upswell’s ever-growing community of changemakers reflects all of these, for sure. But in Chicago, the site of Upswell this November, community means so much more. In the Windy City, community also means 77 specific…
What are the biggest opportunities in the social sector? The most urgent trends? The toughest challenges, brightest innovations, and must-have skills for changing society for the better? That’s what we asked you. Or, more precisely, we asked you and your fellow changemakers across the country to co-create Upswell Chicago —…
Twelve years ago, you could have surveyed a room of changemakers in Chicago, and it’s unlikely that any of them would recognize Eboo Patel’s name. Not the case now. In 2011, the premise of an organization that Patel created became the model for the Obama administration’s initiative to promote interfaith…
Insightful. Trustworthy. Relaxed, yet rigorous. They all come to mind when you hear Michele Norris, who for a decade graced the airwaves as the first African-American female host of NPR’s longest-running program, All Things Considered. Perhaps you also heard and saw her very recently when she interviewed former First lady…
Star Trek fans know that for series creator Gene Roddenberry, a vivid imagination, progressive values, and innovative thinking were key to driving social change and creating a world of diversity, inclusion, and respect. So it should come as no surprise that The Roddenberry Foundation advances his philosophy to “think, question,…
/ By Tamieka Briscoe / We’ve carefully designed Upswell as an opportunity to elevate local ideas in a national spotlight. As we head to Chicago for Upswell later this year, we have our eye on innovative projects taking place throughout the city. In this installment of Innovation in Chicago, BallotReady—a…
As founder and executive director of 2020 Mom, Joy Burkhard’s work to increase and improve maternal mental health awareness, diagnosis, and treatment is well known. In 2016, Independent Sector highlighted Joy’s work and organization in a story about strong champions for women and children. As an early registrant for our…
The pursuit of racial equity requires measurable shifts in mindsets, practices, and systems in the social sector. So how do we get to a future where nonprofit and philanthropic organizations implement and advance race equity internally while advocating for and centering it in work externally? If you’re looking for a…
Jeremy S. Rossman, Ph.D., President and Founder of Research-Aid Networks, is Upswell Chicago’s first registrant, and a native Chicagoan to boot! His organization works to improve global humanitarian aid by facilitating and growing a collaborative interdisciplinary network of researchers, aid organizations, and the communities they serve – both here in…
/ By Robert Jones / This week, Upswell completed its largest ever crowdsourcing effort, with more than 100,000 participants across our host city of Chicago. Okay, that’s not strictly true, but Upswell will benefit directly from one of the largest in-person crowdsourcing projects in America. We didn’t bring those 100,000…
Community immersion is a core part of the Upswell identity. And every changemaker knows that you can’t learn with (or from) a community by just reading or hearing about it. Besides, what would be the point of Upswell visiting a new place each year if you didn’t have the chance…
/ By Jackie Brennan / In its five-year history, tens of thousands of people across the Chicago Metropolitan Area have participated in The Chicago Community Trust’s annual On the Table event. On the Table is comprised of a series of conversations across the region that take place on a single…
/ By Jackie Brennan / We recently had a lot of fun mapping out a list of iconic landmarks within blocks of Hilton Chicago, where Upswell is happening this November. That gave us an opportunity to set the scene of the city’s downtown area, known as the Loop. It also…
/ By Tamieka Briscoe / We’ve carefully designed Upswell as an opportunity to elevate ideas that are taking place locally and put them in a national spotlight. As we head to Chicago for Upswell later this year, we have our eye on innovative projects taking place throughout the city. One…
/ By Tamieka Briscoe / It seems like just yesterday that we were rocking out on ukuleles and experiencing a whole new world with the help of virtual reality goggles. But it’s been nearly six months since we met in November 2018 for Upswell Los Angeles. We’ve caught up with…
From bodegas to board rooms, town halls to kitchen tables, the best ideas for improving society come from places as diverse as the communities we serve. And if we’re going to solve America’s toughest challenges, we need to unleash the full potential of everyone who identifies as a changemaker. In…
/ By Tamieka Briscoe / For many working professionals, the weekend signifies the conclusion of a long work week and the much-anticipated beginning of well-earned leisure time. But for nonprofit and government employees enrolled in the Weekend MBA program at The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, Fridays and…
/ By Jackie Brennan / For an area that was almost entirely razed by a devastating fire in 1871, we have to give Downtown Chicago props: they have all kinds of fascinating historic landmarks. And many of them are within blocks of where Upswell Chicago is going to be happening…
/ By Debra Rainey / Mihai Patru could not have imagined that the “seed” planted during a discussion with changemakers in Detroit would sprout into an incubator for budding social innovators and be featured during a workshop on empowering emerging grassroots entrepreneurs at Upswell LA! Patru is Senior Policy Fellow…
We wanted our inaugural Upswell to be an experience where people confronting community challenges and those with ideas for innovative approaches could (not so) randomly interact during a myriad of activities – and BOOM! – find themselves in social collisions that result not only in a solution for one community…
Linking vision and strategy, dreamers and doers, changemakers and problem solvers. That’s the key to solving the challenges that confront communities around the country – and one of the main goal of Upswell. It’s also the goal of the MacArthur Foundation’s new nonprofit affiliate, Lever for Change, intended to connect…
Upswell community engagement is going to look a little different this year. Last year, we experimented with Upswell Labs, which were designed to get feedback and test new ideas leading up to Upswell LA. We engaged over 220 changemakers from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Detroit, and Chicago and learned a…
/ By Jackie Brennan / Any time we travel to a major American city, almost all of us have cursory knowledge about some basic touchstones—major attractions, staple fare, maybe even a few iconic historic figures associated with the city. Like any city, Chicago has plenty of those things. But it…
Each year thousands of LGBTQ immigrants and asylum seekers come to the U.S. from their home countries to escape persecution based on their sexual orientation or gender identity, many with the added worry of not knowing where to find safe and supportive help once they arrive here. Hans How, vice…
Transformative leadership was front and center during our inaugural Upswell LA in November, where we presented the 2018 American Express NGen Leadership Award to Stacy Stout, assistant to the city manager of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Stacy’s outstanding efforts on behalf of Grand Rapids’ communities embody the award’s purpose — to…
/ By Christian Clansky / I’m not from Chicago. My dad is – and I’ve seen The Blues Brothers so many times that my VHS and DVD copies both stopped working – but I’m writing this post as an admitted outsider who mostly knows downtown. I am, however, something of…
If you had the attention of the nation’s brightest, most influential, most energized changemakers, what would you say to them? Teach them? Ask them? What could you accomplish together? The possibilities are as big as your imagination – and Upswell is where you can co-create with other changemakers to turn…
America’s Heartland is bursting with new approaches to some of our country’s toughest challenges, and they just might work in your community too. Take Resilient Chicago, for example, a new effort recently announced by the city to build a more sustainable and resilient future for its residents. Resilient Chicago is…
/ By Kristina Gawrgy Campbell / For 18-year-old Michelle Serratos, being a part of Upswell LA was a motivational and educational experience. “It really touched me to hear the [awardees] speaking about their work and I really learned something being there,” she said. Michelle was a young photographer-in-training hired to…
This post is one in a three-part introduction to the Upswell experience. Other installments focus on design and community. Following two years of planning, intentional outreach and listening to changemakers for design and programming ideas, Upswell LA sprang to life bigger than almost anyone could have anticipated. With more than…
This post is one in a three-part introduction to the Upswell experience. Other installments focus on the program and community. We heard it over and over at the first Upswell in Los Angeles last November: “This doesn’t feel like any conference I’ve ever been to!” That’s exactly the reaction we wanted,…
This post is one in a three-part introduction to the Upswell experience. Other installments focus on the program and design. We like to say that Upswell is a community rather than a conference, but what does that mean, exactly? It’s hard to explain a “sense of community,” and harder still to build…
/ By Tamieka Briscoe / Jessica Stern never identified as a “foster child” growing up—but at age ten, one week after her mother passed away of cancer, Stern and her seven siblings began living with foster families. According to Stern, while her family had “a whole lot of love,” they…
/ By Jackie Brennan / During Upswell LA, and in the weeks since, we were glad to hear from more than a few people that the three-day gathering in Downtown LA didn’t look or feel exactly like a traditional conference. That was intentional—and we made a very deliberate effort to…
The wave has crested! For the final episode of the season, we take you to Los Angeles to experience Upswell 2018 – and there’s a twist! We were lucky enough to have three student artists from DC-based AOK (All Our Kids) in LA to document Upswell. So, on this episode,…
In early November, Amira Resnick told us that while the allure of being a changemaker energizes and invigorates her, she worries that “we don’t spend enough time evaluating whether the changes we make are the best or most needed. Or even good at all.” Amira, who works at the Alliance…
/ By Debra Rainey / Earlier this year we introduced you to Vera deVera and Carola Secada — two amazing community organizers with strong cross-sector experience and deep ties to the many neighborhoods that make up Los Angeles. Vera and Carola worked with us to ensure that Upswell’s “LA Inside…
/ By Tamieka Briscoe / One of the best and most memorable aspects of Upswell LA was undoubtedly the infusion of youth throughout the entire experience. During the grand finale of the three-day event, 200 youth ranging from kindergarten to 8th grade from the Turnaround Arts: California partner school Ellen…
Becoming reenergized about her work and her contributions to her community: That’s what Amanda D. Scott was most looking forward to about Upswell. After joining us in Los Angeles, we wanted to know whether Amanda was reinvigorated by the Upswell wave. Q: Was Upswell different from other events you’ve attended…
Tammira Lucas, co-founder of Moms As Entrepreneurs, stressed the importance of relationship building when we first met her in October. She hoped to walk away from Upswell with new relationships that would help her grow her program on a national level. We touched base with Tammira about Upswell LA and…
/ by Christian Clansky / There’s a wonderful quote about music that’s attributed to Billy Joel. It’s one of those quotes that appears on a suspicious number of tacky memes and sends you on a wild goose chase through a maze of “best sayings” websites if you try to seek…
We first met Cassie Nguyen, a pediatric cancer survivor and founder of Spotlight On Hope Film Camp (SOH), right before the start of Upswell LA. SOH is a program that provides cost-free film-making training for pediatric and young adult cancer patients and their families to help them tell their stories.…
/ By Kristina Gawrgy Campbell / Eight seconds. That’s how long our brain takes to start losing focus, according to a recent study by Microsoft Corp. We aren’t goldfish, but we’re close. And that’s why at Upswell this year we decided to switch things up to better accommodate how people…
/ By Tamieka Briscoe / With activities like giant board games in the Public Square and the opportunity to actually “color on the wall” —Upswell 2018 gave many attendees a chance to feel like a kid again. Even more exciting, young people literally were front and center at Upswell, as…
/ By Jackie Brennan / We’re still reeling from Upswell LA—an experience that exceeded our expectations in many ways. The success of our first trip out with Upswell is a testament to the people who rode the wave with us. We know we sound like a broken record at this…
/ By Tamieka Briscoe / When it comes to the YMCA, the highly recognizable “Y” symbol may bring several images to mind: the neighborhood fitness center, aquatics lessons, or many other recreational activities designed for youth and adults. In Long Beach, California, one of the nation’s most diverse cities, and…
Just like Day 2, Upswell opened and closed with music. Rather than the cathartic beat of a drum to start the day, musically-inclined (and evidently gifted) changemakers gathered to learn the ukulele with YouTube sensation Ukulenny. The harmonic strumming set a nice tone for the day ahead. Here’s a look…
Starting the Day with a Bang As the sun hid low behind the skyscrapers of Downtown LA and rush hour quietly hummed in the streets below, the serenity of the early morning Public Square was suddenly disrupted with a loud BOOM. A beat later, another BOOM echoed out, followed by…
After two years of planning, collaboration, and energy-building, it’s finally time for Upswell! Here’s a look at what’s happening on the ground in LA. Welcome to Los Angeles Wired into the DNA of Upswell is the idea of being immersive. What’s the point of being in a place like Los…
Introducing yet another changemaker who will be joining us in LA this week from Minnesota! Maia’s a native of South Minneapolis and has been an active force in the dance community—in Minnesota and nationwide—for over 20 years. She leads her own production company dedicated to giving all performers and audiences…
Dinosaurs and astronauts and cell labs! Oh my! Maybe that sounds like an unusual set design, but those are all fixtures in this Minnesota changemaker’s physical office space. Erica Valliant serves as community engagement specialist for the St. Paul-based Science Museum of Minnesota. In that role, Erica plays an integral…
Extraordinary organizations are reinventing their approach to marketing to make a bigger impact. Learn how to evaluate your nonprofit’s marketing weaknesses and redefine the role marketing plays in advancing your mission. Don’t miss the Upswell workshop, Starting a Marketing Revolution at Your Nonprofit, on Thursday at 4pm in Room K-Town, presented…
Matthew Roberson is yet another fantastic changemaker joining us at Upswell as a member of Independent Sector’s 2018 American Express NGen Fellows cohort! Matthew leads the Department of Athletic Regulation for the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe. He’s also one of many changemakers who will be traveling from Minnesota to…
A few changemakers we’ve heard from ahead of Upswell have highlighted some of their favorite things about the physical space they work in. Rebecca Lechner’s space might be our runaway favorite, because she and her Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance team work in the space where Janet Jackson made her fourth…
In addition to leading the public policy and government relations work for Southern California Grantmakers, Seyron Foo is also a member of Independent Sector’s 2018 American Express NGen Fellows cohort that will be joining us this week in LA. Or, more accurately, we’ll be joining Seyron this week on his…
Homelessness is among the most difficult and heartbreaking issues facing society today. On Episode 8 of the Upswell Podcast, we tackle this intractable challenge with two changemakers whose organizations are taking on the complexities of homelessness and making headway, slowly but surely. First we’ll talk with Delphia Simmons, Director of…
Americans for the Arts, a sponsor of Upswell, is a nonprofit whose primary focus is to advance the arts and art education in the United States. They work every day to ensure that people have the tools they need to transform their communities through the arts. Their mission is to build recognition and support for…
Jonathan Zaidman might be the first changemaker to share responses with us ahead of Upswell whose work has a primarily ecological focus. As Director of Replication for The Ecology Center, Jonathan gets to work on one of California’s last remaining protected farms in San Juan Capistrano. Having a base in…
Though she describes herself as “easy like Sunday morning” when it comes to relaxation, Wray Clay is a fierce advocate for children. Her belief in the importance of “getting it right early” suffuses every aspect of her work at United Way of Greater St. Louis, which is dedicated to improving…
Shehla Mushtaq is the COO of the St. Paul-based collective Collectivity. That her organization has a multi-stakeholder approach to creating thriving communities mirrors her personal belief in the power of the collective. In her words, “So much good is happening…Every human being has a significant role to play.” We hope…
/ By Kurian Thomas / Are we showing up as our best citizen selves every day? What are our responsibilities as citizens of this country? I invite you to take a look at Sworn Again America, a project to revitalize citizenship that is related to Civic Saturday, a popular traveling…
This changemaker’s mold-breaking attitude in a red-tape world inspires us. Ellen Anderson will be joining us next week in Los Angeles from Minnesota, where she uses her digital media savvy in the halls of the Minnesota State Capitol building in St. Paul. Ellen is a lapsed architect with a passion…
As the leader of United Way of Racine County in southeast Wisconsin, Rodney Prunty is driven and refueled by the people he meets, and the way that community changework transforms their lives for better. He credits his mother for instilling in him a sense of always aspiring for a better…
Sometimes one person can spark new educational opportunities that enrich a community and the lives of its families for generations to come. In Los Angeles’ Pico Union area, that spark is Malka Borrego. Enjoy a gourmet meal, and learn how she spearheaded the expansion of school options and helped to…
Pam Lange is a force in her community as a leader in education. She’s eager to meet new folks working in and outside of her area of expertise—for which she already has a lot to share in the way of knowledge an experience! But she’s also looking to draw from…
Cassie Nguyen is the founder of Spotlight On Hope Film Camp (SOH), a free program that gives cancer patients and their families the opportunity to learn about filmmaking. As a pediatric cancer survivor, Cassie has committed herself to making a way for those affected by cancer to express themselves. So…
/ By Stacy Palmer / As we get ready to descend on Los Angeles this month to learn more about social change at Upswell, I can’t help but think about the first time I attended an annual conference of nonprofit and foundation executives from across the country organized by Independent…
We’re less than two weeks away from Upswell and we have another fresh set of speakers to introduce! This week, we added another 36 awesome humans to our great list of presenters who’ll open your eyes to new ways of working together to make the world a better place. Here’s…
Since February, we’ve been reaching out to some of our Upswell registrants and giving them the chance to introduce themselves to the Upswell community with a short Q&A. Many have taken us up on the opportunity, and with Upswell LA less than two weeks away, responses are still rolling in!…
When it comes to preparing community residents to be community leaders, ensuring that they have the skillsets needed for meaningful and gainful work is a must in today’s competitive environment. And sometimes life circumstances present residents with challenges that require a little extra help to overcome employment barriers. Episode 7…
We need positive people in this world. Sami Reed is definitely that, and we’re lucky to have her joining us in LA in two weeks. Sami is the founder of Elevate Corporate Wellness, a Long Beach-based organization that’s dedicated the holistic health of organizations—from the collective culture, to the individual…
If you’re a wine enthusiast, you likely know that France’s Beaujolais Nouveau Day is November 15 this year. That coincides with Upswell. If you’re itching to celebrate France’s famous first wine of the season, you may want to join forces with Matthew L. Evans to organize an impromptu celebration, because…
Jonathan C.W. Jones is one member of the sizeable contingent of Minnesota-based changemakers that will be joining us in Los Angeles in just a few weeks. For those who are uninitiated (as we were before reading Jonathan’s responses) in the Minnesota ritual of “going up north,” we guarantee you’ll learn…
/ By Tamieka Briscoe / In the city of Los Angeles where the homeless population is in excess of 30,000 – it is impossible to ignore one of the region’s most glaring issues. In 2006, artist Sophie Alpert took a trip to South Africa where she toured a social enterprise…
We have another LA-based changemaker to introduce to the Upswell community! While Amira Resnick has been working for the past three years on projects focused on promoting health for kids, she has had a rounded career trajectory that began with a love for cultural anthropology. At the root of her…
Tosa Two Heart is a chagemaker herself who works alongside powerful changemakers every day. In her role at First Peoples Fund—located in Rapid City, South Dakota—Tosa supports the work and development of Native artists and culture bearers. Tosa shared about the inspiring breadth of First Peoples Fund’s support of indigenous…
Michelle is the co-founder and executive director of Gladeo, a digital media nonprofit that fosters career exploration for students from diverse backgrounds. She harnesses the power of storytelling and technology to inspire, educate and empower underserved students to find and pursue their dream career. Check out this short video to…
If you’re a new social entrepreneur in desperate need of resources to get up and running, Beth Palm’s website Social Good Impact is up your alley. Beth is a St. Paul-based social entrepreneur with an MBA and a penchant for disc golf. We love Beth’s enthusiasm for achieving true impact…
Katrina Mendoza is an independent mother to three young activists, an adventurer, a justice activist, an organizer, a community healer, and an ordained minister. But that’s not all! In her day job, Katrina supervises health education and outreach at a community health clinic. Her clinic focuses on preventing and helping…
Dr. Tammira Lucas is the co-founder of Moms As Entrepreneurs (MAE). Tammira has a bold vision for helping people, and mothers in particular, in living their best possible lives. The demands on mothers are historically steep and their strengths and skills are an asset in any context. By offering entrepreneurial…
This Upswell registrant Q&A features one of California’s own. Kristin Feltz of Chlid360 made two specific points in this Q&A that we call get behind. First, through education, we can empower children to change the world. Second, and we quote, “a day at the beach is everything.” There are few…
Dwayne Marshall serves as Senior Director of Programs & Partnerships at Atlanta-based regional association Southeastern Council of Foundations. That he works in support of an entire network of mission-minded grantmakers is unsurprising given his many passions. He touches on many of them in this Q&A, including voting rights, eliminating injustice…
Cianti Stewart Reid serves as Vice President of Campaigns for Community and Youth Engagement at Truth Initiative. She joined Truth Initiative’s team in 2016 and has been igniting their grassroots strategy ever since. Cianti, like so many of the changemakers coming to Upswell that inspire us, is both passionate about…
Our future depends in large part on supporting our young people with resources and experiences to develop into tomorrow’s involved citizens and leaders. Fortunately, many social good organizations focus on youth development. We were lucky to have three individuals join us on the Upswell Podcast whose nonprofits put the needs…
In addition to leading the Association of Baccalaureate Social Work Program Directors based in Alexandria, VA, Amanda Scott is a big advocate for the therapeutic power of knitting. At the basic level, knitting is Amanda’s way to check out, reflect, and process while creating something beautiful amidst the chaos of…
Award winning artist Hillary Kempenich is a member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa. Kempenich is an engaged activist who uses her art both within and beyond her community to support what matters most to her, like access to the arts, education, social justice, and Native issues. We are…
We’re just three weeks away from Upswell and the wave of speakers is still growing and picking up momentum! We’ve added another 24 awesome folks to our great list of presenters who’ll open your eyes to new ways of working together to make the world a better place. Of special…
/ By Kristina Gawrgy Campbell / We recently caught up with Myung J. Lee, executive director of Cities of Service, who will be moderating an exciting session at Upswell LA on Thursday, November 15 at 4:00-5:30 pm, titled, “How Changemaking Mayors Are Building Trust and Community.” The session will offer…
Nonstop Administration and Insurance Services, Inc., an Upswell exhibitor, is a business with a mission. Nonstop wants to turn how nonprofits and their employees view healthcare on its head, and encourage them to see employer-sponsored healthcare as an asset, rather than a burden. Be sure to check out their presentation…
You settle into your swivel chair, don a virtual reality headset, push a button, and suddenly you’re far from LA. Maybe you’re feeding an elephant in Africa, breaking rocks in India, measuring the ice in Greenland, or testifying before Congress in Washington, DC. For 10 or 15 minutes, you’re not…
In the realm of transformative changework, the future looks much brighter when we support our youth – particularly those who might not otherwise have important opportunities in their lives. With tight budgets forcing schools to make tough program decisions, we talk on Episode 5 of the Upswell Podcast with two…
/ by Christian Clansky / We keep saying that Upswell is going to be different than any sort of event you’ve experienced before. You really will need to see how – and why – for yourself, but I’ve got a story to share that might give you an idea of…
We’re another week closer to Upswell, and our lineup is still evolving. We’ve added another 18 awesome folks to our great list of presenters who’ll open your eyes to new ways to advancing your own mission, and working together with other changemakers to address today’s challenges and make the world…
We’re thrilled to announce that Grammy Award-winning legends Ozomatli will be performing at Upswell Los Angeles! Ozomatli’s sound is as diverse as the city they call home. The LA-based (and globally inspired) band has perfected a wild and funky fusion, creatively mixing rock, salsa, reggae, hip hop, soul, and jazz…
Here’s a cool trick that creative thinkers use to generate great ideas: combine two existing things. That’s it. Sometimes, genius can be found at the nexus of two things that nobody had thought to bring together. For example, in 2000, the Japanese company Sharp combined a wireless phone and a…
When it comes to changework, no matter how inspired you might be, you can’t just wing it. In the history of big ideas, none have changed the world before first being tested. And one of the most exciting things about Upswell is the potential to generate a big idea when…
Challenges surrounding immigration are front and center in our country. The fourth episode of the Upswell Podcast explores how two changemakers – one near Detroit and one in Los Angeles – are working to advance social justice for immigrant communities in those two places. Our first conversation is with Hassan…
There’s a lot going on during Upswell. As evidence, before even thinking about Workshops or any number of things going on in the Public Square throughout the day, your first-day schedule may already look like this: 8:30am-1:30pm – LA Inside & Out Tour 2-2:20pm – Main Stage 2:30-3:20pm – Workshops…
Residents and tourists alike flood the sidewalks and streets of downtown Los Angeles any given day. With world-famous restaurants, museums, galleries, and other thriving businesses—the city’s center serves as a vital part of LA culture. The city of Los Angeles is complex—and so are its challenges. Nonprofits and foundations like…
You’ll be called upon to do a lot of things at Upswell. Forge new partnerships. Address big challenges. Exchange lessons learned. Examine best practices. Color on the walls. Wait, what? You heard right. You’ve gotta do something different to find innovative ways to address society’s toughest challenges. Something out of…
In order for the democratic process to work for all of us, it is vital that every voice and every concern is heard. On the third episode of the Upswell Podcast – themed broadly around public policy and advocacy – we talk with two changemakers who work to encourage that…
While acting immediately comes to mind when one thinks of Los Angeles, few theaters in and around LA feature an all-Latino stage. CASA 0101 is one of a few venues that does. You’ll learn about this unique theater, enjoy delicious Mexican fare, and see a theatrical production – all during…
Do you feel excited when you hear the term “innovation,” or does it evoke feelings of uncertainty? For many it can simply remind you that your daily work leaves little time to consider new ways to increase your impact. If you feel the same way, you’re not alone. Many social…
If Upswell were a boat, it’s a wonder it hasn’t capsized under the weight of the rich programming and speakers we’re adding every week! As the Upswell lineup continues to expand, we’ve added another 21 awesome folks to our great list of presenters who’ll open your eyes to new ways…
/ By Tamieka Briscoe / Finding solutions to protecting the environment will be among the important challenges discussed when changemakers gather November 14 – 16 in Los Angeles for Upswell. And over 700,000 Californians are working to address that issue today – Wednesday, October 3 – by pledging to stand…
When ten separate agencies work together to support and empower residents in ten different municipalities and unincorporated areas – big things can happen. You’ll find out how this network of organizations is putting its collective muscle behind uplifting communities in Southeast LA during LA Inside & Out’s Southeast Los Angeles…
Upswell is community-driven. When you get to Los Angeles this November, you’ll understand exactly what that means. Every aspect of the Upswell experience has been created, curated, and influenced by hundreds of diverse changemakers from across the country. For example, we put out a call for workshop ideas and received…
The city where baseball legend Jackie Robinson grew up, a filming location of popular shows like The Big Bang Theory and Parks and Recreation, and perhaps best known as the home of the famed New Year’s Day Rose Parade and the Rose Bowl—Pasadena—nicknamed “Crown of the Valley,” is rich in…
Leimert Park’s music and cultural legacy is so engrained, the sounds of music legends Ella Fitzgerald and Ray Charles, and insight of comedy genius Richard Pryor may spring to mind as you walk along the community stops of LA Inside & Out’s Leimert Park tour. Called “the black Greenwich Village”…
A short amount of time to share a big bold idea. That’s a Spark Talk. Rather than a long-winded speech, a Spark Talk is a quick, ten-minute opportunity for a fellow changemaker to take the stage in Upswell’s Public Square to share a new way of thinking or a fresh…
Next time you walk down the street, take a look at the people around. There’s one thing that you hold in common with every single person: all of you – all of us – are affected by the environment. For the second episode of the Upswell podcast, we’re excited to…
A bus station. Higher education. Healthier neighborhoods. They’re all connected to a unique effort to create a college-going culture, healthier neighborhoods, and sustainable social change, and you’ll learn how on LA Inside & Out’s El Monte Community Tour. Located east of downtown Los Angeles in the San Gabriel Valley, El…
We’ve added eight more speakers to our great list of presenters who’ll open your eyes to new ways to advancing your own mission, and working together with other changemakers to address today’s challenges and make the world a better place. With a little more than seven weeks to go, look…
Mercado La Paloma is known for its “vibrant treasure trove of internationally eclectic food,” but it’s so much more than that. It is a shining example that community revitalization can be successfully achieved without the displacement of residents. You’ll learn about this unique community experiment while enjoying delectable international dishes…
Bright lights, big city – that’s LA today. But what if you could see what it was like around 1848, after the U.S. acquired Los Angeles and the rest of California from Mexico following the end of the Mexican-American War? You’ll get to do just that during the Community Dinner…
All of the changemakers who will gather in Los Angeles at Upswell in November are addressing social challenges — like the environment, or youth development, or homelessness. But each changemaker is unique, and concerns or circumstances that are specific to the communities they serve may or may not make how…
We’ve added eight more speakers to our great list of presenters who’ll open your eyes to new ways to advancing your own mission, and working together with other changemakers to address today’s challenges and make the world a better place. With a little more than eight weeks to go, look…
Q: What drives you, what you’re working on, and why you’re inspired to make the world a better place? PH: I am driven by transformative leaders that continue to have enough fight in them to make a difference in the organizations they serve. I am working on an app that…
Providing basic services for the thousands of children who live in some of LA’s most vulnerable communities is no small feat, but the Magnolia Community Initiative aims much higher. Their community-driven, multi-pronged effort, involving residents and 70 public and private organizations, provides holistic, wrap-around environments where children and their families…
The days to Upswell are counting down to November 14-16 – when 1,500 changemakers gather in LA for a brand new experience that will help us rise together to meet today’s challenges. At the same time, our slate of speakers is growing – giving you more opportunities to meet and…
A fearless changemaker since her adolescent years, Tamera Luzzatto is now the Senior Vice President of Government Relations at The Pew Charitable Trusts. She is inspired by, and has high hopes for the younger generation leading the charge of tackling current social issues. We are excited to have Tamera join…
For a community that just received its official designation in 2002, Historic Filipinotown (HiFi) sure has a lot of hidden gems. You’ll have a chance to uncover those gems though a special version of the Hidden HiFi tour, organized by the Pilipino Workers Center of Southern California and Public Matters…
Voting is open for the 2018 NGen Leadership Award winner through Thursday, September 20 at 11:59pm PDT. All six finalists have amazing track records of collaboration and making a significant impact in the communities they serve. And they’re pretty incredible individuals, too! We’re giving each finalist the opportunity to tell…
Voting is open for the 2018 NGen Leadership Award winner through Thursday, September 20 at 11:59pm PDT. All six finalists have amazing track records of collaboration and making a significant impact in the communities they serve. And they’re pretty incredible individuals, too! We’re giving each finalist the opportunity to tell…
Voting is open for the 2018 NGen Leadership Award winner through Thursday, September 20 at 11:59pm PDT. All six finalists have amazing track records of collaboration and making a significant impact in the communities they serve. And they’re pretty incredible individuals, too! We’re giving each finalist the opportunity to tell…
Voting is open for the 2018 NGen Leadership Award winner through Thursday, September 20 at 11:59pm PDT. All six finalists have amazing track records of collaboration and making a significant impact in the communities they serve. And they’re pretty incredible individuals, too! We’re giving each finalist the opportunity to tell…
Voting is open for the 2018 NGen Leadership Award winner through Thursday, September 20 at 11:59pm PDT. All six finalists have amazing track records of collaboration and making a significant impact in the communities they serve. And they’re pretty incredible individuals, too! We’re giving each finalist the opportunity to tell…
Voting is open for the 2018 NGen Leadership Award winner through Thursday, September 20 at 11:59pm PDT. All six finalists have amazing track records of collaboration and making a significant impact in the communities they serve. And they’re pretty incredible individuals, too! We’re giving each finalist the opportunity to tell…
We know. The six finalists for the 2018 NGen Leadership Award are so amazing, it will be hard to pick just one winner. But before voting ends on September 20, maybe there’s a question you’d like to ask each one to help make your decision. Don’t miss the 2018 NGen Award…
/ By Jackie Brennan / Each year, saying sayonara to summer is a bittersweet rite for many of us. We hope having Upswell on your horizon this November gives you a little something to look forward to as we head into the next few months. But for the meantime, we’re…
/ By Tamieka Briscoe / You’ve undoubtedly heard of the famous Hollywood sign, and the legendary Hollywood Walk of Fame. So it should come as no surprise that Los Angeles is home to many historic landmarks and neighborhoods. You’ll learn about one of LA’s most popular National Historic Landmark Districts…
We’re just a bit more than two months away from Upswell. In November, 1,500 changemakers from across the United States – and you, we hope! – will gather in Los Angeles for three days of ideas and action. Now that we’re in the post-Labor Day homestretch, we’ll be sharing all…
/ By Amy Ferguson / Talk with Uvinie Lubecki and Anna Kawar at Leading Through Connection (LTC) and you will hear about their vision for a more “human kind of leadership” and how it can help us achieve personal resilience as well as improve organizational performance. LTC helps leaders apply…
Michelle Serrano, Associate Director at Playworks Southern California, has always found joy through helping others, so it’s no wonder she’s chosen a career where she helps bring safe and inclusive play to children through specialized school recess programs. Playworks believes that play is a basic human need, and we are…
We’ve considered applications for the 2018 NGen Leadership Award submitted by 70 outstanding emerging changemakers. Our also outstanding Selection Advisory Group helped us narrow the list down to six amazing finalists. (It really wasn’t easy.) Now it’s your turn to vote for the 2018 award winner! But before you vote,…
Highly rated on Zagat, with hundreds of rave reviews on Yelp, and serving delicious Latin fusion dishes – while teaching culinary skills to young women who are former gang members. You think that’s a mouthful? Just wait until you taste the scrumptious made-from-scratch, Latin-inspired cuisine you’ll enjoy during the Upswell…
/ By Jackie Brennan / Although Zócalo is only the second largest public square in Mexico, it is one of the 250 largest public squares in the world. And it is almost certainly the original from which all subsequent public spaces in Mexican society drew influence. Prior to the Spanish…
For a number of reasons, Ryan Ginard is the type we’re excited to have turning out for Upswell. How many folks do you know in the philanthropic space who work on a live podcast that marries Southern California politics and craft beer? To boot, we can almost hear his Australian…
/ By Debra Rainey / Imagine a 20,000 square-foot processing kitchen where donated fruits and vegetables are chopped, diced, pureed, and juiced before being composted. That’s L.A. Kitchen. Now imagine that huge operation in an even larger 60,000 square foot incubator space with more than 50 other production kitchens, many…
Conjure an image of a decaying railroad depot surrounded in all directions by rusty industrial warehouses. Doesn’t sound too inviting, does it? Now picture a thriving arts district where creatives, social entrepreneurs, nonprofit changemakers, and service providers collide to create a vibrant community full of fresh starts for residents, energized…
Aleda Gagarin is based in New York but looking forward to taking a deep dive into the issues facing Los Angeles and beyond. Aleda is the Director of Development at Foundation Center, a nonprofit whose mission is to strengthen the social sector by advancing knowledge about philanthropy in the U.S.…
/ By Jackie Brennan / Upswell blog veterans will by now recognize our “What the heck is…?” series—a collection of 101-level posts designed to prime changemakers on the core elements of the Upswell experience. Those same loyal readers, noting the Ancient Agora of Athens on prominent display atop this piece,…
Selecting six finalists for the 2018 American Express NGen Leadership Award is no small feat. In the spring, 70 outstanding changemakers applied for consideration – each with a very strong track record of collaborating with others to make a significant impact in the communities they serve. Fortunately, we had our…
Susan Schmidt, president of the Kansas City-based Nonprofit Leadership Alliance, has worked in public service since her teen years and has never looked back. Her organization’s mission is to strengthen the social sector with a talented, prepared workforce. Susan will be joining us at Upswell in November! Q: In a…
/ By Tamieka Briscoe / The image of a cardboard box has been inextricably associated with urban homelessness for decades. Enter Tina Hovsepian, a Los Angeles native and architect with a desire to combat one of the city’s most devastating challenges—and who responded in 2007 with a simple, cost-effective defense:…
Robert Fersh is the President of Convergence, an organization based in Washington, DC that he founded in 2009. We’re inspired by Fersh’s passion for bringing people together who, despite having drastically different points of view, manage to come up with solutions that go the distance to incite meaningful change in…
/ By Debra Rainey / Changemakers from across the country will gather at Upswell in Los Angeles, November 14-16, to move boldly toward our common goal to make positive change, improve lives, and create a better world. We’ll also honor one exceptional leader whose life’s work has exemplified the lofty…
/ By Debra Rainey / Our community of changemakers is chock-full of emerging leaders doing amazing work in neighborhoods across the country. So imagine how difficult it is to identify and recognize one accomplished changemaker whose work makes them a leader among outstanding next-generation leaders? Take our word for it,…
Apple Sepulveda is a pediatric occupational therapist at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. She also serves as Interim Chair/Vice-Chair of 2020 Mom, an LA-based organization dedicated to maternal mental health, that is no stranger to the Upswell blog. Previously, we have shared Q&As with 2020 Mom Board Chair Kiley Krekorian Hanish…
Jim McCorkell is founder and CEO of College Possible, a nonprofit organization that helps promising low-income students prepare for college and graduate from college – and he’ll be joining us in November at Upswell! Jim grew up as part of a low-income family, and his parents were unable to finish…
If you’re working to address a social challenge, create positive change, and improve lives – and you’d like to do all those things in a more efficient and effective way – then you’ll want to hear what Ann Mei Chang has to say when she takes the stage this November…
As you might expect, Carola Secada’s experience in planning multiple community dinner experiences throughout LA for Upswell changemakers has been interesting, inspiring, and sometimes overwhelming – all at the same time. More than “just dinner,” she’s working to provide Upswell attendees with community experiences that reflect LA’s vibrant range of…
/ By Debra Rainey / Upswell is for changemakers, but what are you trying to change? The world, of course. But that’s a pretty tall order. What if you could spend 60 to 90 minutes changing yourself – your outlook, knowledge base, skill set, toolbox, or network? Could you leverage…
It’s hard to overemphasize the opportunity we have in front of us. In November, 1,500 diverse changemakers are coming together in Los Angeles. Or, to put it another way, we’re all going to have access to tens of thousands of years of knowledge, experience, success, and even a few failures.…
/ By Debra Rainey / Vera deVera has made some surprising discoveries as she’s visited various LA communities and talked with community and organization leaders and residents to identify neighborhoods for the “LA Inside & Out” immersion tour. “First, I love being a tourist in my own city! I was…
/ By Mohammed Mohammed / Take a moment and think back over the past few years. How have you been spending your Thanksgivings? A recent paper published by Science magazine indicates that we spent significantly less time sharing the 2016 Thanksgiving dinner table than we did in 2015, using data collected…
/ By Jackie Brennan / “Twenty-first century charity seems to be about the redemption of the giver instead of what it should be about: the liberation of the receiver.” That’s one of the biggest lessons Spanish-American chef José Andrés has taken away from his friend and mentor, Robert Egger. As…
Upswell is about turning empathy into action — harnessing the insights and experiences of changemakers to positively impact the communities we serve. But what about the community’s insights and lived experiences? In the rush of life, do we unintentionally lean toward a “bias to action” — designing solutions without fully…
For changework, local context is essential. You can’t make a real difference unless you immerse yourself in a community – building relationships with the people living there, exploring the intersections of ideas and action, and experiencing firsthand the innovations, obstacles, and diversity that shape a community. And you can’t get…
/ By Robert Jones / Attendees of our fourth Upswell Lab, held in San Francisco, were intrigued by a hands-on demonstration showing how nonprofits can use virtual reality, or VR, as a powerful storytelling tool. VR promises to have a prominent role at Upswell LA, so we sat down with…
/ By Christian Clansky / If you’ve ever been to San Francisco, you know that the city’s weather is unpredictable. You might carefully plan a day full of outdoor activities – maybe a stroll in Golden Gate Park, some parrot-watching on Telegraph Hill, and a boat ride out to Alcatraz…
/ By Debra Rainey / When your thoughtful and thought-provoking opinion pieces and books attract praise and criticism from the left, right, and the middle – you must be doing something right! And we’re lucky that David Brooks will be front and center on the main stage to challenge our…
/ By Christian Clansky / Thursday, June 7, 2018, was one of the best nights of my life. I also think it was one of the best nights of a lot of peoples’ lives. And, not so coincidentally, it was the night I began to truly believe everything we’ve been…
/ By Pickett Slater Harrington / You may recall that Detroit holds a very special place in the Upswell story. In late May, the changemakers who inspired Upswell in the beginning gathered again for an Upswell Lab. And it was great to be back together. More than 40 changemakers from…
Sara Brenner is president of Community Wealth Partners, a Washington, DC-based consulting firm that partners with foundations and nonprofits to solve social problems. Sara will be joining us in Los Angeles in November at Upswell! She is passionate about partnering with people to rethink what is possible and to dramatically…
/ By Debra Rainey / Upswell is about making and building meaningful connections with changemakers doing great things in the social good space, and what better way to do that than over a great meal? During Upswell’s Community Dinners, you’ll “meet well while you eat well.” You’ll have the opportunity…
Monisha Kapila, founder and CEO of Washington, D.C. and San Francisco-based nonprofit, ProInspire, will join us at Upswell in Los Angeles this November. Monisha has been recognized as an American Express NGen Fellow and holds a number of other sector accolades. She founded ProInspire in 2009 to help individuals and…
You’ve heard that Upswell is going to be a new kind of experience. But what does that even mean?! The short answer, of course, is that you’ll have to join us in LA this November 14-16 to really understand. But that’s not a satisfying response! Don’t worry, we’re not trying…
/ By Debra Rainey / Upswell is about imagining new approaches to difficult social challenges. It’s about fresh, innovative ideas that are working in local communities, and envisioning whether they just might work in the community you serve, too. You’ll be able to do just that at Upswell during LA…
/ By Christian Clansky / It’s May the Fourth – the biggest Star Wars holiday of the year – and, for some inexplicable reason, we don’t get the day off work. So, I’m going to turn work into a celebration of Star Wars instead! I’ll say up front that I…
/ By Marie LeBlanc / On April 24, we hosted the second Upswell Lab, again in our Upswell 2018 home base, Los Angeles. This Lab built on the conversations that we started in February about the urgent issues facing Los Angeles today (read more about it here). We heard from…
/ By Robert Jones / At The Main Museum in downtown LA, Allison Agsten and her team are building something more than a collection – they’re building a community. Just blocks from Skid Row, The Main Museum in downtown Los Angeles offers a haven of peace and beauty that can…
/ By Robert Jones / At the recent Upswell Lab in Los Angeles, it was easy to forget that thousands of homeless men and women were huddled on the sidewalks for blocks and blocks in every direction. On the second-floor terrace of the Star Apartments, birds chirped, bees buzzed and…
/ By Jackie Brennan / Syrian-born Azniv Korkejian was sad to leave Saudi Arabia for the United States at the age of 10, when her Armenian parents unexpectedly won a green-card lottery. The displacement left her with a sense of wandering that followed her through her teens and 20s, as…
Upswell is all about building a community of changemakers to make real change happen in communities. So what better place to honor an emerging changemaker from our community who has demonstrated transformative social impact through collaborative leadership? The nomination period for the 2018 NGen Leadership Award is open through Friday,…
/ By Kristina Gawrgy Campbell / We recently caught up with Building Movement Project’s Co-Director Frances Kunreuther to talk about their latest report, California’s Race to Lead: The Nonprofit Racial Leadership Gap in the Golden State. Their first Race to Lead report, which looked at the sector’s nationwide data on…
/ By Robert Jones / It’s no secret that Los Angeles is a car-crazy place. But if you’re flying in for Upswell and don’t want to pay $42 a day to park your rental car at the InterContinental, does that mean you’ll be “stuck” downtown or paying expensive Uber fares?…
/ By Jackie Brennan / Given that we do a regular profile on some of the most exciting artists from LA’s music scene, we knew this was coming. We thought we’d prime the pump with some names of LA musicmakers you maybe haven’t heard of, and for several weeks, we…
/ By Jackie Brennan / In the final month of 2017, many will recall TIME’s break from traditional form in its choice of Person of the Year. For only the 11th time in the 90-year history of the designation, the magazine’s Person of the Year was an unnamed group of…
/ By Dan Cardinali / As CEO of The California Endowment, Dr. Bob Ross has helped to revolutionize the way America’s most populous state thinks about the health of its citizens and communities. Even in the midst of a 10-year, $1 billion campaign known as “Building Healthy Communities” — a…
Kiley Krekorian Hanish will be at Upswell LA with another “early bird” registrant – 2020 Mom Executive Director Joy Burkhard, Both Kiley and Joy joined the first Upswell Lab in Los Angeles in February. Kiley is Board Chair at 2020 Mom, a doctor of occupational therapy, and founder of the…
/ By Jackie Brennan / For many Fridays, we’ve brought you profiles on LA musicmakers who either inspire us for how they channel the essence of their home region, or have made a deliberate commitment to using their platform to elevate issues. On the surface, our pick for this week’s…
Beth Rubins is the grant writer for Vegas PBS with more than 13 years in nonprofit fundraising. Prior to her role at Vegas PBS, she was the director of grants and program support for Communities in Schools of Nevada. A long-time resident of Las Vegas, Beth believes her social work…
Eric Weinheimer is the president and CEO of Forefront, Illinois’s membership organization for nonprofits, grantmakers, public agencies, advisors, and allies. Eric led the organization’s rebranding three years ago from Donors Forum to Forefront to emphasize putting the members and their impact front and center for the people of Illinois. “The…
/ By Jackie Brennan / Think of Stephen “Thundercat” Bruner as the bass-playing counterpart to tenor saxophonist Kamasi Washington, who we shared about back in March. Like Washington, Thundercat is an LA musicmaker. Also like Washington, Thundercat was part of the studio crew that Kendrick Lamar tapped to help him…
/ By Jackie Brennan / Telling tough stories. Giving life to movements. Creating wow! moments. We know this first batch of Main Stage speakers is on-point because they embody the spirit of Upswell. We could extol their virtues ad nauseam, but we think the basis for our enthusiasm will be…
/ By Debra Rainey / Upswell will shine a bright and critical light on systems of oppression, racial inequity, and structural violence, and celebrate the work of those in the struggle to end them, like Tarana Burke — civil rights leader, social justice revolutionary, founder of the #MeToo movement —…
/ By Tamieka Briscoe / Another year, another conference. If you’re anything like us, you’d rather watch paint dry than attend the same old, same old mundane meeting of the minds. Well, color us excited! Because recently added to the mainstage speaker lineup at Upswell is international graffiti artist and…
/ By Kristina Gawrgy Campbell / Throughout her career, Lisa Ling has been a champion for telling the stories that are hard to find on the cover of newspapers or through your daily news alerts. As an award-winning journalist, Lisa has traveled around the country and world to document everything…