Silence Is Complicity: A Call to Action for Philanthropic Foundations

The Chronicle of Philanthropy posted an article on February 6 entitled, “Foundations Remain Largely Mute as Nonprofits Face Slashed Federal Funding.” As the CEO of Fathers Incorporated, this article resonated deeply with me for multiple reasons. 

Having led a nonprofit for over 20 years with the mission of strengthening families one father at a time, I am acutely aware of the challenges and uncertainties nonprofits currently face due to shifts in federal policies and funding priorities. Nonprofits across the country — and indeed, across the globe — are experiencing the ripple effects of these policy changes, many of which threaten the viability of organizations that provide essential services to communities in need. 

Fathers Incorporated was founded on the premise that strengthening fathers strengthens families and, by extension, strengthens society. The statistics are clear: Children are five times more likely to live in poverty when their fathers are absent. Single mothers often struggle when fathers are unable to contribute financially, emotionally, and physically to their children’s well-being. Our work addresses these disparities and provides solutions that uplift entire families and communities.

When establishing an organization like Fathers Incorporated, one must consider whether to adopt a for-profit model or a nonprofit model. Many of us who commit our lives to this work choose the nonprofit route because of the benefits associated with philanthropic giving from foundations, corporations, and individuals. However, over the past 20 years, we have found that securing sustainable funding is an ongoing challenge, particularly when serving a demographic that is often overlooked and underserved.

The reality of our work in metro Atlanta means that a significant portion of the fathers we serve are African American. This is not by design but rather a reflection of the demographics of our community. While our doors are open to all fathers, the socioeconomic realities of Black men in America mean that they are disproportionately in need of the services we provide. Despite our commitment to serving based on merit and impact, we often find ourselves entangled in ideological debates that distract from the essential work we do. There is no DEI initiative guiding our efforts. Our work is simply about supporting fathers and families, period.

Yet, the philanthropic landscape remains challenging, particularly for organizations focusing on Black men, low-income communities, and family structures that do not fit neatly into political or ideological frameworks. The reality is that there is little societal empathy for low-income Black fathers, making it difficult to garner consistent support from funders. 

Over the past two decades, we have worked diligently to diversify our revenue streams, ensuring we can continue providing critical services without being entirely dependent on any single funding source. Fathers Incorporated started in a bedroom, expanded to a basement, and now operates at scale in metro Atlanta while serving fathers nationwide. We have impacted countless lives from Brooklyn to the Appalachian Mountains, from Los Angeles to West Virginia and Texas. Despite our proven track record, we now navigate an increasingly uncertain funding environment.

Given the current political and philanthropic climate, I implore foundations and funders to take proactive steps. First and foremost, reach out to the organizations you already support. A simple phone call or email to understand the new challenges nonprofits are facing would go a long way. Second, develop concrete plans to sustain and expand funding for the organizations that are doing critical work on the ground. Finally, extend that support to other nonprofits that are struggling to survive in the face of funding cuts.

At a time when nonprofits are in urgent need, silence from funders is a form of complicity. If philanthropic institutions exist to support struggling communities, then now is the time to act. Nonprofits should not be left wondering whether they will be able to continue their work simply because funders are hesitant to engage. 

The mission of strengthening families and supporting communities is too critical to be derailed by political shifts or institutional inertia.

I have always refused to beg for funding. If foundations claim to support communities, then they must demonstrate that commitment through action. Nonprofits are the backbone of social progress, and their survival should not be left to chance. Now is the time for philanthropy to step up, speak out, and ensure that the organizations dedicated to improving lives can continue their work.