It's Complicated.

I could spend all my time writing the perfect grant - crafting each word as though there would never be an opportunity for revision. I could do that, but it would be a very poor use of time.

So much of this work is about building relationships. Simply having conversations to see where they lead. The last few weeks have shown that to be true. We regularly call it networking, but networking has a negative connotation in my mind - it implies that we're all simply out to find people that can help us. When you network, you might get an introduction. When you build relationships, you gain advocates.

In recent weeks, we've seen true advocacy. And, as I reflect on how we got to this place, I see that those relationships were built in three ways.

Our Board: When considering nonprofit work, there's often talk about what the Board of Directors should do. Recently, I believe my board has gone beyond what I expected of them. Our board members have actively given their resources, and they have actively pursued discussions with others about doing the same. Their work played a significant role in our recent fundraising successes. As we prepare to submit proposals to The Gannett Foundation and The Replogle Foundation, our board members have used their contacts to ensure that these local foundations are already familiar with our work.

Our Supporters: Those that have supported our work have also gone to bat for us in recent weeks. Previously, I've mentioned Josh Friedman's work in raising $800 through Akin Gump's Jeans Day. Additionally, Dianne Samuelson, a graduate school classmate of mine, made the introduction (and the sell!) that led to a recent $10,000 donation from ARPC. Lastly, it was a Reach supporter, Francine Serafin, that encouraged Manfred Macx to support Reach, Inc. through their site launch.

Our Partners: The type of advocacy that excites me the most occurs when another justice-seeking organization states their belief in your work. We were recently invited to submit a grant proposal to The New York Avenue Foundation. We received this invitation solely because Free Minds Book Club thought highly enough of us to use their relationship with the foundation to provide a recommendation.

I remain Reach's only employee, but I certainly no longer work alone.

Thanks, as always, for reading.

Mark