Reimagining Public Safety Criteria

In addition to compatibility with program mission and goals, we look for movements, networks and organizations that shift narratives, center voices and build coalitions of those directly impacted by violence and harm (e.g., survivors, justice-involved people, etc.), and:

that engage in campaigns and activities to create and seize political opportunities to further the goals of the program;

whose strategies and activities are aligned with their goals and capacity as well as FNV goals;

where there is local, regional and/or national collaboration;

that demonstrate an ability to educate, mobilize and effectively engage allies in strategic campaigns;

that are nimble and reflective and are able to adapt based on experiences, lessons and insights;

where organizational structure, decision-making and the work reflects consistency between means and ends.

Other Considerations

We value partnerships and ongoing relationships and see them as an opportunity to build trust and deepen collaboration. Therefore we seek outstanding, committed, capable and visionary groups/individuals and we are open to the possibility of developing long-term collaborations.

One-time events or experiences without effective follow-up or on-going relationships with the participants are generally NOT funded.

We will consider groups who are taking risks that are creative and who may not have an established track record but who have a clear vision and plan, the capacity to think strategically, and are consistent with broader campaigns.

We will consider funding distribution of a media production that is linked to movement building but we won’t fund production costs.

We look for mobilization more than research. Research is essential to social change work and campaigns, and there are some organizations that do excellent work in this regard. Nevertheless, we will only consider funding research if it addresses an identified need to advance campaign activities or movement building.

We tend to support education and direct service efforts only as a complement of, or when tied to, a larger social change process such as policy change campaigns, leadership development of directly impacted people, building proofs of concept that can be models for future advocacy, and similar efforts.

Regarding finances and financial resources: We look for financial integrity and accountability within the organization. We weigh the value of our financial support within the overall finances of the organization.