The Maddox Fund Environmental Participatory Grant Advisory Board, composed of young environmental professionals and activists, seeks inquiries from Middle Tennessee nonprofits regarding environmental grants available Q4 of 2024.
Grants of up to $30,000 will be made in the following areas:
Access to Green Space—including but not limited to, environmental equity-focused activities and programs, liberatory outdoor teaching practices, preventing loss of natural space, access to natural space.
Climate Justice—including but not limited to, reparations for communities impacted by climate change including community resiliency, just transition from fossil fuel to renewable, safe and affordable energy, mitigation of invasive insects and diseases caused by climate change, mitigation of flooding caused by climate related severe weather.
Food Justice—including but not limited to addressing agricultural land loss, advancing food justice for marginalized communities, land justice for marginalized communities.
Schedule
November 4: Inquiries due
November 15: Notification of next phase
December 5: Full proposal due (not to exceed xxx pages or composed of xx questions)
December 20: Anticipated announcement
Format for Inquiry: One page, including program/organization description, area of interest (green space, climate justice, and/or food justice), skeleton budget, and requested amount
Inquiry Evaluation Lenses: Indigenous and racial justice, intersectionality, advocacy & direct service
Who is the Maddox Fund: The Maddox Fund is a Middle Tennessee foundation that works to better our community through partnerships that improve the lives of young people and protect the natural environment.
What is Participatory Grantmaking: PGM a shift in power. Participatory grantmaking processes engage those who are directly affected by the issues at hand in the decision-making process.
Composition of Environmental Participatory Grant Advisory Board
Members of the advisory board were recruited from Maddox partner organizations and environmental advocates. The advisory board includes:
Dan Maddox used to say, “It is my job to make the money and her job to give it away. She is doing a better job than I am.” He was referring to his wife Margaret – in fact a Vice President of the Maddox companies and fully engaged in business matters. Still, the anecdote (a popular joke at parties in the ’70s and ’80s) illustrates a persistent practice among foundations: the disconnect over how the money is made and how it is given away.
Historically, the Maddox Fund’s Investment Committee structured the organization’s investment program with the singular focus maximizing returns. The Grant Committee, another group altogether, developed a process for giving the money away. The committees reported to each other at board meetings; their work, however, was guided by different values and directives.
With this siloed structure, Maddox’s market investments and grants could easily work against each other. For example, we might have invested in a company that degrades water quality while our grants prioritized healthy water systems; or, we might have invested in companies with extractive labor practices even as Maddox espouses justice and liberation.
During our 2020 equity audit, we interrogated our practices and began to ask how we could align our resources with our values. We asked ourselves what it would look like if every dollar we invested worked to further our mission.
Meanwhile, the Investment Committee went to work crafting our investment North Stars, which led to a 14-month search for an investment adviser who specialized in mission-aligned investments. In 2022, we hired Bivium Westfuller – a multi-racial, gender-diverse investment advisor “compelled by the power of financial resources, invested with purpose, to drive a flourishing society and planet.”
As of March 2024, approximately 71%, or $41M, of our assets have moved to Bivium Westfuller and invested with seven (7) diverse managers focused on solutions to three of our society’s most pressing problems – affordable housing, renewable energy and economic equity.
One of Maddox’s overarching North Stars is to be a “learning organization embracing all stages of transformation and change toward liberation.” We are in a steep learning curve right now as we plan for the transition of the remaining 29% of Maddox’s legacy investments toward alignment with our North Stars. In the year ahead we will be learning about impact measurement, shareholder activism and Net Zero investing. We are also learning, alongside other area foundations, about program- and mission-related investments in order to invest 95% of our resources in companies/markets that work for good.
The Maddox Fund seeks a world in which people and planet flourish together in regenerative systems free from oppression and threat. The old ways of working will not address our society’s most intractable systems and problems. New ways of thinking and investing are required.
I come by it honestly. For 50 years my mom was part of a women’s group called the “Walkie Talkies.” You got it, they walked and talked weekly—seeing one another through personal crises, solving the world’s problems and cooking up a good deal of southern-woman mischief. It is no surprise that my response to almost every organizational crisis or transition is, “You want to take a walk?”
In my 15 years at the Maddox Fund, I’ve walked with long-term CEOs and young folx entering the nonprofit space. Walking puts people on an equal footing, creating a safer and more mutual environment for conversation. It also embodies what I believe to be true—we move forward together. ¡Adelante!
Walking also gets us outside, connecting us to nature and its rhythms. In the Spring, I choose Centennial Park, which is full of goslings and protective parents. In the Fall, Shelby Park’s colors make it my go-to place. And any season is perfect for Mill Ridge Park—our newest anchor park, thanks to the support of the Joe C. Davis Foundation and the excellent leadership of Darrell Hawks. The natural environment reminds us that seasons come and go—as do problems—and that our place in creation is both profound and insignificant.
In my final months at Maddox, I’d like say goodbye to everyone personally because you have shaped my life. But the closest I can get is inviting you on a walk–in small groups for cross-pollination and conversation. As appropriate, we might grab a coffee or a beer after our stroll. Recognizing that walking is not for everyone, and even ableist, I’ve included some times at the Maddox office for a bite of lunch.
Use the form to RSVP for one of the sessions. All the dates below are open, but we will keep the groups small so that I can connect with each of you.
I anticipate that, as we stroll together, I’ll say “thank you” a lot. For your inspiration and courageous leadership, thank you. For your boundless compassion and demand that systems be transformed, thank you. For your insistence that Maddox lead toward justice, thank you. For envisioning a more liberatory Middle Tennessee, thank you.
In the months ahead, the Board of Directors of the Maddox Fund will announce the name of our new Executive Director. We hope they will join the team in the 4th quarter of 2024 as I exit at the end of the year. I know the new leader will be motivated by the Middle Tennessee nonprofit community as you welcome the next season of Maddox philanthropy.
The Maddox Fund believes that real expertise lies within the community. We have lived that out in the past through participatory grantmaking with LGBTQ+ high school students making funding decisions or HBCU students guiding our priorities. Shifting grantmaking power to those connected to issues gets dollars closer to community-led solutions.
This year, the Maddox Fund has set aside $100,000 for environmental causes in Middle Tennessee. We are seeking advisors to guide how to direct those funds to area nonprofits. Each participant will be paid $1,000 for their time and expertise.
The ideal advisory committee member:
Is a middle Tennessee student or young professional, ages 15-35
Has a demonstrated commitment to environmental causes
Has knowledge of Middle Tennessee environmental nonprofits & their work (participants may be employed by an area environmental nonprofit, but will be required to abstain from voting if there is a conflict of interest)
Has the desire to learn about and participate in democratizing of philanthropy
Is available for opening session on September 14 (required)
Is able to attend 75% of all virtual meetings (required)
The Dan and Margaret Maddox Fund is pleased to invite applications, expressions of interest, and/or nominations for the position of Executive Director. This position is responsible for strategic leadership as well as administrative and managerial oversight of a $56M endowed foundation located in Nashville Tennessee.
Salary $160,000-200,000 annually
Starting 4th Quarter 2024
All inquiries should be directed to our search partners at NPAG
Full Position Description Available Here
Equal Opportunity Employer
The Maddox Fund commits to providing a work environment that is free of discrimination. It is the policy of the Maddox Fund that all applicants and employees are entitled to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, religion or creed, sex (includes sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions), gender (includes gender identity or expression), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information or other protected characteristics as required by local, state and federal law. As such, the Maddox Fund does not discriminate in employment decisions, including with regard to hiring, termination, promotion, transfers, leave of absence, compensation or training. The Dan and Margaret Maddox Fund is an equal opportunity employer.
Salary: $160,000 – $200,000 annually
Starting 4th Quarter 2024
All inquiries should be directed to our search partners at NPAG.
The Maddox Fund commits to providing a work environment that is free of discrimination. It is the policy of the Maddox Fund that all applicants and employees are entitled to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, religion or creed, sex (includes sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions), gender (includes gender identity or expression), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information or other protected characteristics as required by local, state and federal law. As such, the Maddox Fund does not discriminate in employment decisions, including with regard to hiring, termination, promotion, transfers, leave of absence, compensation or training. The Dan and Margaret Maddox Fund is an equal opportunity employer.
We met with Dorian Hines from the Tennessee Nonprofit Network, an organization that serves the state’s nonprofit community “by building the momentum of the nonprofit sector in Tennessee to create equitable, measurable, and lasting change.” Here are some questions we asked him.
Could you please introduce yourself?
Sure thing! My name is Dorian Hines and I am the Middle Tennessee Regional Director for Tennessee Nonprofit Network. I am a native of North Carolina (born and raised) and relocated to Nashville from Memphis. I’ve served nonprofit organizations in several capacities – including community engagement and recruitment & marketing. I have a never-ending passion for public service and giving back to the community. I’ve volunteered with a great number of nonprofit organizations throughout my career. I earned my Master of Public Administration from Auburn University, and a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from North Carolina A&T State University.
What is the Tennessee Nonprofit Network? How did it get started?
Tennessee Nonprofit Network (TNN) is a nonprofit organization that serves as a statewide association for nonprofits in the State of Tennessee. TNN started as an organization who provided grant expertise for nonprofits in West Tennessee, serving as a regional nonprofit association, and since, evolved from Momentum Nonprofit Partners to the now Tennessee Nonprofit Network. We are dedicated to supporting and strengthening the nonprofit sector across the state. At TNN, we provide resources, training, advocacy, and networking opportunities for nonprofits, aiming to enhance their effectiveness and impact.
What are the benefits of membership?
There are a great number of benefits that come with becoming a member of TNN. Some of these benefits include networking opportunities, training and professional development, advocacy and representation, access to resources, peer-to-peer support, information and updates on sector trends, and more. Also, membership to TNN will be free to all 501(c)3 organizations in Tennessee or organizations serving Tennessee residents for the first three (3) years. For more information on TNN’s member benefits and how your nonprofit can access them, please visit www.tnnonprofits.org and click on “Become a Member Organization” under the connect tab.
What do you think are the biggest issues nonprofits will face in the next few years?
Over the next few years, nonprofits will be faced with several issues – funding and financial sustainability, digital transformation, advocacy and policy changes, public trust and reputation, etc. – to name a few. However, while specific challenges can vary based on the nature and focus of individual nonprofits, it’s important to note that they can also be based on the mission, size, and geographic location of each nonprofit. Adapting to change, staying informed about sector trends, and fostering resilience are key strategies for nonprofits to navigate these changes.
What should nonprofits expect from the February 27 and 28 network training and day on the hill?
On Tuesday, February 27th, we will be hosting our Nonprofit Advocacy Summit. This event will take place at Scarritt Bennett Center in Nashville, TN. As you represent and advocate for your organization, TNN wants to ensure that you are empowered to do so. You’ll learn effective techniques to more your legislative agenda forward, hear from successful and seasoned government relations and nonprofit professionals, network with colleagues from across Tennessee’s nonprofit sector to make our collective voice stronger. Following our Advocacy Summit, TNN’s Nonprofit Day on the Hill is the day that you’ll put those best practices into action. This two-day legislative engagement event will empower nonprofit staff and board members to be confident advocates and carry out that confidence to meet with our elected officials and advocate for our sector and all the work that our organizations do. The overarching goal of our Day on the Hill is to advocate on issues that are important to nonprofit sector partners, but also to cultivate and strengthen your organization’s relationship with lawmakers and their staff. For more information on TNN’s Advocacy Summit and our Nonprofit Day on the Hill, please visit our website and click on the calendar tab. Here, you will find the schedule for both events, as well as location and hotel information if needed.
How do people get connected with you?
Currently, I am headquartered at the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee but am a Tennessee Nonprofit Network employee. If you would like to schedule some time to meet to go over member benefits, any assistance in upcoming programs and/or information on how to help your organization, or how you can become a member with us, please contact me at dhines@tnnonprofits.org and we can schedule a time to chat over breakfast, coffee, lunch, or even zoom.
Anything else to add?
Every day, your organizations make a profound impact on the communities you serve. As you navigate these challenges and triumphs that come with your mission, I want to emphasize the importance of coming together and joining forces with a network that truly understands and supports your journey – Tennessee Nonprofit Network. You are not alone in your mission and TNN is a powerful ally with a coalition of organizations dedicated to amplifying the impact of nonprofits across the state. Take advantage of this – especially with free membership for the first three (3) years. There is strength in unity. Public policy and advocacy matter to truly impacting systems change. It is a nonprofit’s right to engage in nonpartisan policy work, and at TNN we believe it is your duty. Let’s make a difference together!
The Maddox Fund has signed onto a statement from the Council of Foundations and Independent Sector to support the rights of philanthropic organizations, charitable nonprofits, and individual donors to give in ways that align with their values. That includes efforts to support historically marginalized groups.
The Maddox Fund submitted the following comment to the members on the committee reviewing a potential rejection of $1.8 billion in federal education funding.
The 15th year of grantmaking at the Maddox Fund was an exercise in unlearning. Instead of reverting to traditional practices, we stretched ourselves to live more intentionally into our vision of a world in which people and planet flourish together in regenerative systems free from oppression and threat. Unlearning isn’t easy. Imagining a liberated world hidden behind a veil seems impossible, but with practice we have a chance to glimpse that longed-for future for which we strive.
The Maddox Fund submitted the following public comment to the Census Bureau.
The Dan and Margaret Maddox Fund’s mission is to better our community through partnerships that improve the lives of young people and protect the natural environment. Nashville is home to the largest concentration of Kurds outside of Kurdistan and Arabic is the third most spoken language in the state. As a funder of youth and education organizations in Middle Tennessee, we recognize the importance of adding a Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) category on the Census and federal paperwork.
The exclusion of MENA Americans from federal data has led to a statistical blindspot, leaving many without equitable access to the educational opportunities needed to thrive in the 21st century. We have heard from nonprofit partners that they are frustrated with having their Arabic and Kurdish students being identified as “white” in school data at the local, state, and national level. This causes harm which is best evidenced when we look at data from the American Community Survey that does disaggregate this data. There we can see that MENA students are twice as likely to not graduate high school and twice as likely to live below the poverty line.
The inclusion of MENA would help our nonprofit partners and local school districts understand and serve our communities. It would ensure that all students and families are receiving trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and linguistically competent services. We thank you for considering the addition of a MENA category when collecting federal data.
