Building Connective Tissue Through Experiences and Connections

Editor's Note: Ericia Henry joined The Patterson Foundation as its eleventh Fellow in June 2024. With a Master of Arts in Philanthropic Studies and certificates in Nonprofit and Fundraising Management, she brings a deep passion for leadership and education, shaped by her journey as a first-generation college graduate.

 

The 2024 Exponent Philanthropy Conference brought together individuals from funders of all sizes, each with values and missions that inspire meaningful impact. This gathering created unique opportunities to connect, learn, and inspire one another.

The Patterson Foundation (TPF) embraced this opportunity to implement its CLSES approach—Connecting, Learning, Sharing, Evolving, and Strengthening. With this framework in mind, we participated in multiple sessions designed to foster collaboration and share transformative strategies.

Beth Duda, director of the Suncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading, and I co-led a session titled “Accelerating Change: Cultivating Trust Through Shared Experiences.” Our session focused on how engagement opportunities can foster trust, build connections, and drive meaningful change within communities. The conversation encouraged participants to explore innovative ways to create impact through collaboration.

Additionally, TPF hosted two Dine-Around experiences, which embodied the spirit of CLSES:
Night 2: Disaster Philanthropy with Patricia McIlreavy

• Patricia McIlreavy, CEO of the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, led a dynamic discussion about strategies, education, and funding opportunities essential to the lifecycle of donor impact during domestic and global disasters. One attendee reflected, “Disasters affect everyone—risk reduction and storytelling are critical investments for all communities.”

Night 3: Early Learning and Literacy with Beth Duda

• Beth Duda facilitated a thought-provoking conversation about the growth and success of the Suncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading. Professionals from similar foundations were inspired by the innovative approaches shared. As one attendee noted, “We can do more. Your problem-solving skills are impressive. Loved laundromat days.”

Overall, my experience at the 2024 Exponent Philanthropy Conference was phenomenal. I had the privilege of connecting with passionate professionals whose contributions extend beyond their organizations. Through TPF’s two Dine-Around experiences and Beth and my impactful session, we built connective tissue and advanced our mission of strengthening communities through shared knowledge and collaboration.