
Through the strategic equity planning process, Orange County Grantmakers has developed an equity framework which is the basis for our equity commitments and goals. We understand that issues surrounding equity are complex and will constantly evolve. This equity framework is meant to anchor strategic decisions in a shared understanding of equity, while at the same time providing space for continued growth and development. The framework includes an identification of root causes of inequity, drivers of equity, our evolving definition, and a perspective on collective strategies.
Orange County Grantmakers (OCG) envisions an Orange County where philanthropists and nonprofits work together as partners to achieve equity for our most impacted communities.
Orange County Grantmakers advances equity by creating strategic alignment and cultivating transformational relationships and leadership among OC philanthropists and nonprofits.
Equity Framework: From Inclusion to Justice
Orange County Grantmakers recognizes that equity requires the alignment of systems and relationships to move from inclusion towards justice.
Inclusion
Impacted communities gain access and/or
opportunities to participate in decisions that affect
their lives
Providing
Help
Representation
Impacted communities gain a non-token seat at the decision-making table
Justice
Impacted communities gain the authority and resources to set their own priorities and make their own decisions
Sharing
Power
Equity Framework: Advancing equity from direct services to systems change advocacy
Strategies must be aligned to impact root causes of inequity, and there is a role for everyone.
Making systems work equitably (e.g., policies to increase the amount and accessibility of affordable housing)
Building capacity to navigate existing systems (e.g., how to navigate affordable housing programs)
Addressing immediate needs (e.g., by providing rental assistance or legal representation)
Addressing
Root Causes of Inequity
Increasing impact from individual to community
Addressing
Effects
of Inequity
OC Grantmakers makes the following commitments to advance equity
OCG will apply these commitments to strategic planning and ongoing programing decisions.
OCG will work with philanthropists to consider how they might apply these commitments within their own varied spheres of influence, including personal and institutional.
Orange County Grantmakers invites philanthropists to join us on our journey to create a more equitable Orange County through:
- Leveraging resources and aligning strategies for regional impact to improve equity outcomes.
- Learning together and co-strategizing with nonprofit practitioners to impact equity in Orange County.
- Participating in peer to peer networking and professional development for the sake of individual and institutional transformation on issues of equity, power, and privilege.
- Learning about innovative and effective best practices for funding equity.
8 Equity Goals

Goal #1
Create Power Sharing Spaces with the Nonprofit Community

Goal #2
Align OCG Affiliate Groups Around The OCG Equity Commitments

Goal #3
Serve as a Hub for Funders to Connect to Organizations doing Equity Work

Goal #4
Target Outreach for Capacity Building and Training to Geographies and demographics of highest need.

Goal #5
Advance Equity Internally and Externally by Integrating a Focus on Equity, Justice and Systematic Racism Into all our Programming

Goal #6
Promote Best Practices

Goal #7
Engage with Native Nations

Goal #8
Develop a Sustainable Leadership Pipeline for Bipoc Foundation Leaders and Staff