Foundation for Louisiana (FFL) is a Black-led philanthropic organization dedicated to reducing vulnerability and building stronger, more sustainable communities across the state. Established in 2005 in response to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, FFL has evolved to address systemic inequities affecting marginalized Louisianans. The foundation's mission is to invest in communities and ideas, build partnerships, and transform policies and systems for an equitable, stronger Louisiana.
Key Strategic Focus
FFL's strategic initiatives encompass several critical areas:
- Criminal Justice Reform: Advocating for policies and practices that promote fairness and equity within the justice system.
- Racial Justice: Implementing programs like the Truth, Racial Healing, and Transformation (TRHT) to address and heal racial divides.
- Climate Justice: Developing the Climate Justice Portfolio to mitigate the disproportionate impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities.
- Economic Opportunity: Supporting initiatives that foster economic growth and stability in underserved areas.
- Gender Justice: Advancing programs that support reproductive justice and LGBTQ+ rights.
- Arts & Culture: Promoting Louisiana's vibrant cultural heritage through various grants and programs.
These focus areas are pursued through a three-pronged strategy: investing in grassroots projects, building the capacity of community leaders, and transforming policies and systems to achieve lasting change.
Financials and Funding
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, FFL relies on contributions, grants, and investment income to fund its operations. In the fiscal year ending June 2023, the foundation reported:
- Revenue: $4,845,870
- Expenses: $5,272,832
- Net Assets: $11,959,314
The majority of revenue (79.5%) was derived from contributions, with additional income from program services and investments.
Leadership Team
FFL's leadership comprises experienced professionals committed to the foundation's mission:
- Charmel Gaulden, CEO and President: With over 15 years in nonprofit administration and strategic advocacy, Gaulden leads FFL's initiatives and partnerships.
- Dana Delpit, Chief Financial Officer: Bringing over 30 years of expertise in nonprofit fund accounting, Delpit oversees the foundation's financial operations.
- Jamie Schmill, Vice President of Programs: A creative systems thinker and strategist, Schmill manages program development and grants management.
Leadership Changes
In October 2022, Charmel Gaulden succeeded Flozell Daniels Jr. as CEO. Gaulden, previously FFL's Chief Operating Officer, brings extensive experience in civil rights law and nonprofit leadership to her new role.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
FFL collaborates with various organizations to amplify its impact:
- Fiscal Sponsorships: Providing administrative support to initiatives like the Louisiana Coalition for Reproductive Freedom and Voces Unidas: Louisiana Immigrant’s Rights Coalition.
- Climate Justice Initiatives: Partnering with the Rockefeller Foundation and the Louisiana Governor's Office to develop equitable disaster recovery strategies.
Operational Insights
FFL's commitment to community wisdom, courage, integrity, and commitment guides its operations. The foundation emphasizes transparency and accountability in its funding decisions and program implementations.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Looking ahead, FFL aims to expand its impact by:
- Enhancing Disaster Preparedness: Launching the Freedom Forward Fund to improve disaster response and recovery efforts statewide.
- Advancing Racial Healing: Continuing to develop and implement programs that address systemic racial inequities.
- Supporting Economic Growth: Investing in initiatives that promote economic stability and opportunity for marginalized communities.
For more information about Foundation for Louisiana and its initiatives, please visit their official website.
