What is a Network?

As a membership organization committed to excellent service, Philanthropy Missouri (PhilMO) provides opportunities for networking and professional development across our statewide membership. In addition, we recognize the value of providing customized offerings for smaller groups - or Networks - within the PhilMO membership.

PhilMO Networks (formerly "Peer Communities" and "Affinity Groups") are designed to increase connectivity and provide unique learning opportunities among groups of PhilMO members who:

• Are similar by funder type, funding interest, geographic location, or personal or organizational identity.
• Convene at least two times per year and intend to meet every year.
• May also receive customized services such as the opportunity to participate in a Network listserv or to receive a custom Network news brief.
• Are supported by PhilMO staff and Member-Advisors who partner with staff in shaping Network offerings.

PhilMO Networks

Funder Type

• Corporate Funder Network
• Family Foundation & Donor-Advised Fund Network

Funding Interest

• Early Childhood Funder Network (re-launching in 2024)
• Public Policy & Advocacy Funder Network (launched at Statewide Conference & Annual Meeting in January 2024)
• Rural Funder Network

Geography

• Kansas City Funder Network (in formation)
• St. Louis Funder Network
• SWMO Funder Network

Identity-Based

• Executive Network-This Network is a group of PhilMO Members who are executive directors, CEOs, presidents, or senior corporate funder leads. This Network gathers regularly to support shared learning, problem solving, and collaboration. Contact Michelle Miller for more information.
• Funders of Color Network-This Network holds space for grantmaking professionals who identify as people of color. This group gathers periodically to build community, problem solve, and collaborate. All funders of color are welcome (you do not need to be a PhilMO Member); development professionals are not eligible. Contact JoJo Weatherspoon for more information.
• Program Staff Network-This Network is a group of PhilMO Members whose roles are to design and/or deploy grantmaking programs and initiatives. This group gathers regularly to support networking, shared learning, and problem solving. Contact JoJo Weatherspoon for more information.

Have questions or interested in creating a new PhilMO Network? Please contact our Vice President, Amy Wescott.