Fostering Participatory Learning Approaches in Philanthropy: A Guide for the Curious

Engage R+D, a consulting firm that works with nonprofits, foundations, and public agencies, released a field guide on participatory learning approaches in philanthropy. The guide is based upon the collective expertise of diverse foundations and reflects a range of experiences with such approaches. It aims to be an essential resource for foundation program, learning and evaluation, and executive leaders curious about or actively engaging in participatory practices within their organizations.

This guide champions the cause of making philanthropic work more impactful by broadening who participates in and benefits from learning. Engage R+D invites the reader to co-imagine what a transformative approach to learning could look like, one that embraces inclusive, participatory, and equitable practices involving grantees, community leaders, and funders. They write, “Whether you are beginning to explore or looking to deepen your participatory learning practices, this guide is equipped with tools, examples, and insights to support you on this path.”

Why Participatory Learning Now?
Participatory learning represents a critical evolution in philanthropy. It is grounded in the belief that those most affected by social issues hold invaluable insights into creating effective solutions. This guide, developed by tapping into the rich experiences of funders, grantees, and learning consultants, defines participatory learning as the deliberate inclusion of grantees and community members in the learning activities of projects or programs. This approach not only aims to gather firsthand perspectives to deepen understanding and challenge unconscious assumptions, but it also strives to share and shift decision-making power to those traditionally on the periphery of such processes.

Fostering Participatory Learning Approaches in Philanthropy: A Guide for the Curious, Engage R+D, May 2024