ABOUT US

WHAT IS VFN?

The Virginia Funders Network (VFN) is newly-formed statewide membership association composed of more than 100 philanthropic organizations working to build a connected, collaborative philanthropic community that advances opportunities for all Virginians. Each year, our members invest more than $250 million to support Virginia’s most pressing community needs in areas such as education, health, housing, economic vitality, and social justice. VFN enhances the effectiveness of our members’ work through networking, collaboration, learning, and leverage.

WHO IS PART OF VFN?

Our member organizations include all types of grantmaking organizations investing in Virginia, including private, independent, and community foundations; corporate giving programs; donor advised funds; governmental grantmakers; United Ways, giving circles, and other grantmaking public charities. While each of our members is an independent entity and each maintains its own diverse funding interests, collectively we share a vision of a Commonwealth where all Virginians can thrive.

WHY WAS VFN FOUNDED?

In 2017, a small group of funders came together to advance an idea: Virginia ’s philanthropic community could reach an unprecedented level of effectiveness if grantmakers across the state worked together to tackle the Commonwealth’s most pressing needs and capitalize on opportunities. Launched in 2020, VFN provides philanthropic leaders with opportunities to network and learn together, collaborate on funding solutions, and leverage collective knowledge and action. The goal of our work is improved outcomes in areas such as education, health, housing, economic stability, and social justice.

HOW DOES VFN WORK?

Each year, VFN hosts dozens of learning and networking events that help members identify and address the critical needs and exciting opportunities facing the Commonwealth and its residents. These events build community among the state’s philanthropic leaders and provide a robust arena for idea exchange, collective problem-solving, and the development of collaborative solutions.

We are so excited about this vibrant network of funders from all regions of Virginia. We began as an Advisory Board of 17, and we have already grown to more than 100 members. Our Advisory Board has high aspirations to leverage the outcomes for Virginia’s grantmakers.

Christy Connolly

President & CEO
PATH Foundation