In their latest publication, Reimagining Capacity Building, Grantmakers for Effective Organizations (GEO) provides vital principles for centering equity in our capacity building efforts, explores the way inequities can show up, and offers steps we can take to address and mitigate those inequities. Join Maryland Philanthropy Network and Grantmakers for Effective Organizations for this interactive and engaging workshop. Our speakers Akilah Massey, Vice President of Programs and Mareeha Niaz, Director of Programs at Grantmakers for Effective Organizations will give a deep dive into the practices highlighted in their resource and efforts around capacity building. Through national examples and Maryland voices, participants will ideas about how shifts in practices lead to meaningful change for communities.

Early childhood professionals play an essential role in communities, helping young children to develop, supporting working families, and enabling business operations.  While affordable and high-quality childcare is critical, the early childcare sector is underfunded and dysfunctional. COVID-19 has exacerbated longstanding issues, exacting a devastating impact on childcare centers and the professionals that staff them. In this program, we will hear more about the issues impacting the early childhood workforce at the individual, employer, and systems levels. We will explore the role of employer collaboration with funders and other stakeholders to advance necessary changes in business practices and public policies to support these essential workers.