At MRG Foundation, we have a somewhat unique opportunity to see across issues, across communities, and across the state. From Ashland to Scappoose and from Coos Bay to La Grande, MRG’s grantees, donors, and leaders work in nearly every county and come from every movement. Read our analysis of the current issues, strategies, and events that are shaping Oregon's social justice movements.
I am often asked, “What is the best way to give to MRG?” I have changed my response from the usual “cash, checks, credit cards, stock,” to “freely,” “thoughtfully,” and “joyfully,” allowing people to see giving at its basic level. Giving thoughtfully and with joy can save the world. In spreading the word about MRG […]
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“How are we leveraging resources for justice, peace, and equality for our community?” It’s that very question that drove Vena M. Ford to attend MRG Foundation’s Giving Back: The Soul of Philanthropy, Reframed and Exhibited, Pop-Up or GBTSOP event in August. Vena, a donor, activist, and fundraising professional was grounded in philanthropy and activism at […]
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When asked to describe her relationship to MRG, Teressa Raiford, Don’t Shoot Portland’s (DSP) Founder and Lead Organizer, said “MRG saved my life.” She went on to say, “it’s a lot going on [in the world today] you know? The world is not like it was yesterday. We’re post-Ferguson, and a lot is happening and […]
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Five years ago I was selected as MRG’s ‘next’ executive director. I was chosen to honor the past and to lead us boldly into the future. While at MRG I’ve promoted the power of critical thinking, pushed bold programming, and introduced powerful community conversations. I’ve worked with smart and creative staff, board, and community members […]
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MRG Foundation was named “2016 Outstanding Philanthropic Foundation” by the Association of Fundraising Professionals Oregon & SW Washington Chapter. MRG was selected for this award based on the following criteria: This award recognizes a private or community foundation or community grantmaking organization that supports not only nonprofit organizational goals but also offers encouragement and motivation […]
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“Life for me ain’t been no crystal stairs” these words from Langston Hughes poem “Mother to Son” always resonate with me when the question is asked for me to share myself. As a native Portlander and as a Black man the convergence of these two realities are constantly in conflict with each other, but I […]
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As I come to the end of my 26th year as a fund raiser and my 45th year as a person of color and a black woman, I am forced to assess my worth in light of what I have given back and in terms of how I want my future and the future of […]
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MRG Foundation is excited to award $225,000 to 17 groups across Oregon to continue to build and grow the social justice movement. Inspired by the events that took place in Malhuer County this January and understanding the limited resources available to individuals and groups organizing in rural communities, we made a consecrated effort during this […]
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As we head into Pride weekend, we at MRG are reminded of the importance of creating and holding space to celebrate who we are, where we came from, and build a vision for a better, stronger, and safer tomorrow. This week’s MRG staff meeting started a little differently than most. One of our leaders shared […]
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MRG Foundation is looking for a committed and inspirational leader, who has a deep understanding of racial justice and intersectionality, the ability to inspire a wider circle of people to support social justice grantmaking by elevating MRG’s work locally, regionally, and nationally, and will unleash the leadership potential of the MRG team. Learn more about […]
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