Building Bridges
Creating Pathways for Communication and Relationships
Over time, FCV has seen meaningful, positive results by bringing together partners we fund, partners we may fund, and others with whom we are intentionally building relationships. These connections create pathways that help people move toward one another with greater understanding, trust, and shared purpose.
Bridges between Native communities and dominant society are especially needed. Many funders want to support Native communities but are unsure where to begin or how to engage respectfully. FCV helps create pathways for learning, relationship-building and long-term partnership. We act as a conduit, sharing what we have learned and helping others engage in ways that are culturally grounded and aligned with local priorities.
FCV is not the hero of this work.
Communities are.
How FCV Supports Community-Led Work
Financial Support & Grantmaking
- General operating funding to strengthen organization stability and flexibility
- Immediate and responsive funds to address current or emerging needs
- Scholarships, with an emphasis on leader development
Organizational and Capacity Support
- Financial efficacy and long-term sustainability
- Accurate financial records following standard accounting practices
- Proper checks and balances in financial processes
- Board development, governance facilitation, and strategic planning
- Training and professional development for existing staff
- Support for new or evolving staffing needs
Advisory & Specialized Support
- Financial advisors
- Legal support
- Grant writing and compliance assistance
- Independent contractors
- Strategic planning
Building Collaborative Investment
- Attracting other funding organizations to invest in Native-led partners
- Creating opportunities for funders to learn directly from Native communities
- Supporting other non-profits within dominant society working among Native peoples
Guidelines for Investing in Native Community Vitality
Informed by decades of relationship-based work, this framework offers a pathway for funders to engage respectfully and invest in ways that honor sovereignty and support long-term Native community vitality.
- Be mindful of Tribal sovereignty and value the uniqueness of each Tribe.
- Seek to understand Native culture and customs.
- Appreciate Native intelligence and embrace affirmative, asset-based frameworks.
- Deepen understanding of shared values.
- Build long-term, reciprocal relationships based on respect, trust, honor and humility.
- Invest for the long-term; be patient and willing to take risks.
- Be willing to recast what success looks like and use a Tribal lens to do so.