Are our existing systems still serving our communities or has the moment come for something entirely new?

Please join this Immersion Journey to Atlanta, Georgia from 21-23 October 2024 to explore what works in building a more just society, including economic mobility and full social and political participation. Over the course of 2.5 days, our group will meet with organizations working to close the racial wealth gap, and build economic and political power in communities that have been systematically exploited. We will explore the role of funders in supporting the growth of local economies that are just and inclusive, and opportunities for collaboration with government and business.

Why Atlanta?

The center of the U.S. civil rights movement, home to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, and a present-day hotbed of political and social action, Atlanta has experienced rapid economic growth yet continues to struggle with racial and socio-economic inequality. Despite its popular reputation as an oasis for Black Americans, it has one of the largest racial wealth gaps in the country. Many cities both in the U.S. and globally face similar challenges, where only a small group of elites define and enjoy economic success, often to the detriment of the majority. Growing efforts across the city aim to shift this pattern and to create inclusive economic futures that lead to shared prosperity for all people. 

Against the backdrop of the 2024 election year, we will focus on Atlanta’s stories of strategic collaboration and triumph during a time of backlash against hard-won rights. Members will explore how to fund systemic approaches to close the racial wealth gap and promote justice, equity, and inclusive economies. We will examine how Atlanta’s civil society is creatively building wealth and power for communities that have been systemically excluded, economically and politically; and how business, government, civil society, and philanthropy can collaborate via social finance and philanthropic funds to catalyze and scale solutions. 

“The theory is important, but actually seeing it makes such a difference. I knew it intellectually but actually being in the place and meeting the leaders has been a real eye-opener.”

– Forward Global Member & Journey Participant

What will I spend my time doing?

Day 1 (Monday): We will begin with an opening lunch and spend our afternoon and evening setting context on Atlanta’s history and present reality and hearing perspectives on how we can build a just society. We will close with a dinner hosted by the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation. 

Day 2 (Tuesday): The group will immerse itself in the systemic social, political, and economic challenges facing Atlanta, with a focus on closing the racial wealth gap and building political power, through a combination of classroom-style discussion and community site visits, in part located in Atlanta’s Westside. Some organizations we will hear from include Fair Count, Atlanta Wealth Building Initiative, and The Guild.

Day 3 (Wednesday): We will conclude by hearing promising approaches and initiatives from leaders working to address with a whole-system approach, and delving into the unique role of funders in supporting lasting social change.

Each day will begin early in the morning, heading to sessions to learn from nonprofit partners in the field and site visits to communities and organizations. Over lunch and dinner, you will have the chance to connect and build lifelong friendships with your peers from across the Forward Global community. We are delighted to be offering this Journey in partnership with the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation.

Who is this program for?

Open to Forward Global members, this Journey is a good fit for any funder seeking to support communities and systems to build enduring social change.

What is the cost of the Journey and who can I contact with any questions on the program?

The Journey participation fee is set at $3,000 USD. For more details on the program logistics, we welcome you to review our frequently asked questions. For any questions, please reach out to Jaspar Leahy at jaspar@forward-global.org.