Jane Bancroft Robinson Foundation - Our Philanthropic Approach

Our Philanthropic Approach

Human-Centered Design: JBRF’s Approach to Philanthropy

Our approach is grounded in the principles of equity, trust, and collaboration and a belief in the power of community-driven change over traditional philanthropic directives. We believe that systemic changes are only possible when those most impacted by the barriers become the architects of solutions.

Why This Approach?

Catalyzing lasting change in East of the Anacostia River neighborhoods in D.C. begins with diversity of thought. Our approach brings together people — residents, nonprofit leaders, health care professionals, policymakers, and advocates — perspectives, and lived experience, and it holds space to build consensus.

See the approach in action

Strengthening East of the River Communities

East of the Anacostia River, encompassing Wards 7 and 8 of D.C., continues to face long-standing inequities compared with the rest of the District.

Residents here experience high poverty rates, unemployment, and lack access to quality health care. Unemployment rates for residents living East of the Anacostia River are more than two times the average rate for the entire District. Within this predominantly Black community, Black women are further disadvantaged and are more likely to bear the brunt of systemic inequities. Cancer incidence and mortality rates for Black women in Wards 7 and 8 are unacceptably high, compared with those of their white counterparts only a few miles away. And, over 70% of Ward 7 and 8 households are headed by a single mother.

Research indicates that women’s health is most likely to influence overall family health, affect economic stability, and impact community well-being.

Investing in Black women and their health is strengthening communities East of the Anacostia River.

Our Goals

Improve Health Outcomes

Reduce cancer morbidity and mortality among Black women in Wards 7  and 8.

Bolster Nonprofit Capacity

Secure a strong and thriving nonprofit ecosystem for residents and leaders East of the Anacostia River.

Identify Gainful Employment

Create strong career pathways and systems-change strategies for Black women interested in pursuing health-related employment opportunities.

Influence Philanthropy

Change the status quo in philanthropy by moving capital into communities of color, being intentional about racial equity, and supporting community-driven solution.

Track and Assess Impact

Document and evaluate investments in human capacity and leadership, power building, and racial equity for nonprofits and residents of Wards 7 and 8.

Rebalance Systems and Redistribute Power

Transform systems by identifying the decision-makers and beneficiaries of funding, training, power dynamics, and outcomes. Provide the investments to elevate the voices of Black women while supporting East of the Anacostia River residents in becoming the architects, and not objects, of policy.

How We Can Change Philanthropy for Good

All too often, the philanthropy status quo is action for action’s sake. Over time, the sector has progressed, and JBRF is leading the way by proactively investing time and financial resources to ensure effective, informed action. An approach like this is an investment in human capacity and leadership. It is a strategy that relies on community and grantee partners telling us where the system is most broken, how best to fix it, and what interventions are most needed to bring about meaningful change.

At JBRF, we have made a commitment to approach grantmaking from a lens of intentional focus on building the individual and nonprofit sector East of the Anacostia River. It is an approach that: