BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems Funders - ECPv6.17.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems Funders X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems Funders REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Los_Angeles BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20250309T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20251102T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20260308T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20261101T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20270314T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20271107T090000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260819T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260819T120000 DTSTAMP:20260724T162939Z CREATED:20260724T162938Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260724T162939Z UID:10000773-1787137200-1787140800@www.agandfoodfunders.org SUMMARY:SNAP Funder Working Group: Strategy Check In DESCRIPTION:Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems Funders and Grantmakers In Health have formed a funder Working Group to coordinate a strategic response to the SNAP cuts in H.R. 1. Recognizing the far-reaching implications of SNAP for food security\, health\, and economic equity\, this Working Group serves as an information hub and a strategic coordination space\, designed to help funders act quickly\, effectively\, and in alignment with one another. Previous Working Group calls have highlighted advocacy\, training and technical assistance\, strategic communications\, and food security data collection opportunities for funders\, as well as information about SNAP food restriction waivers.  \n\n\n\nOne year after the passage of H.R. 1\, analysis from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities finds that at least 1.5 million fewer children — and more than 4.5 million fewer people overall — are receiving SNAP food assistance. SNAP participation has dropped in every state except Alaska\, and by as much as 10 percent in some states. The harms to communities will continue to grow as states fully implement eligibility restrictions. This Working Group Call will provide a space for funders to share where they are focusing efforts\, where they see the biggest funding gaps\, and where there are opportunities to align with other funders. We will also use this time to gather input on future discussion topics and determine the Working Group meeting cadence going forward. \n\n\n\nThis Working Group is open to all funders currently responding to or actively considering a response to SNAP cuts. Funders do not need to be members of SAFSF or GIH. If you are wrestling with the impact of SNAP cuts on the communities you serve\, this space is for you. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n Funder-Only Registration\n \n "*" indicates required fields \n \n InstagramThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.This field is hidden when viewing the formRegisterName*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n Organization*Title*Email*\n \n Are you a funder?*\n \n Yes\, I am affiliated with a funding organization.\n SAFSF defines funders as staff\, board members\, trustees\, donors\, program officers\, and other professionals from organizations using grantmaking or investments as a core strategy to fulfill their mission.\nThis field is hidden when viewing the formEvent Name\nIt may take longer than expected to process your submission\, please only click submit once.\n Submit URL:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/event/snap-funder-working-group-strategy-check-in/ CATEGORIES:Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/food-access.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260820T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260820T140000 DTSTAMP:20260810T212004Z CREATED:20260723T041107Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260810T212004Z UID:10000771-1787230800-1787234400@www.agandfoodfunders.org SUMMARY:Gather Round Monthly Membership Call DESCRIPTION:The Gather Round Monthly Membership Calls\, held on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm PST / 4 pm EST\, serve as a regular “drop in” space for SAFSF members. These calls are focused on connection and continuing dialogue on topics explored in virtual learning events and other programs hosted by SAFSF during the month. \n\n\n\nThe August Gather Round session offers a space to connect and collaborate\, following our invitation for members to propose and host ‘Critical Conversations’ around the country in 2027. What critical conversations do we need to have now\, and where should we gather? \n\n\n\nConsider this space an open house to ask questions\, share curiosities related to Critical Conversations in 2027\, and to find potential collaborators to support your ideas. We will also share insights from the 2026 SAFSF Forum and recent surveys to spark inspiration for future convenings.  \n\n\n\nCome share what you are hearing and reflecting on with your peers. This is a space to connect\, listen\, and learn from one another—all SAFSF members are welcome! \n\n\n\nThis event is designed for SAFSF members. Registering below will automatically register you for Gather Round each month. \n\n\nTo register for Gather Round\, you must be logged in and a member of SAFSF. \nPlease log in or register for an account. URL:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/event/gather-round-monthly-membership-call-2/ CATEGORIES:Gather Round,Member Only,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Gather-Round.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260825T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260825T130000 DTSTAMP:20260526T160148Z CREATED:20260225T195947Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260526T160148Z UID:10000751-1787659200-1787662800@www.agandfoodfunders.org SUMMARY:Maximize Your Membership DESCRIPTION:Maximize Your Membership is an orientation webinar for SAFSF members\, new and veteran! If you are new staff at a new or long-time SAFSF member organization\, have not engaged in SAFSF programming or member benefits yet yourself\, want a refresher on all that is available to you as a SAFSF member organization\, or just want to connect\, join us! \n\n\n\nThis quarterly membership call features our newest SAFSF members  – help us welcome them into this community. Join Clare Fox\, Executive Director\, and Holly Hanes\, Senior Membership Associate\, for a deep dive into all things SAFSF\, including: \n\n\n\n\nCelebrating & sharing your membership internally and externally;\n\n\n\nMember Perks – including the annual Forum\, exclusive offerings\, and Learning Communities; \n\n\n\nHow to access your SAFSF benefits; \n\n\n\nSAFSF Professional and Leadership Development Pathways; \n\n\n\nTools and resources available to you; \n\n\n\nEvent Preview \n\n\n\n\nThis energizing conversation will excite you for the quarter ahead and expose you to one (or many!) benefits of membership that you were not utilizing to help in maximizing your SAFSF experience. Meet other members\, learn the SAFSF processes\, and get engaged! This event is a free\, SAFSF member only event. Interested in SAFSF membership? Email us. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nTo register for this program\, you must be logged in and a member of SAFSF. \nPlease log in or register for an account. URL:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/event/maximize-your-membership-5/ CATEGORIES:Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/315796b3-2f37-e31b-b026-37d8c833ffa5-1-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260910T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260910T110000 DTSTAMP:20260723T151004Z CREATED:20260709T233002Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260723T151004Z UID:10000770-1789034400-1789038000@www.agandfoodfunders.org SUMMARY:Understanding the Links Between Ultra-Processed Foods\, Chronic Disease\, Corporate Power\, and Growing Calls for Government Action DESCRIPTION:Co-Sponsored by Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems Funders (SAFSF)\, Global Alliance for the Future of Food (GA)\, Health and Environmental Funders Network (HEFN)\, and Philanthropy New York. \n\n\n\nUltra-processed foods (UPFs) make up half of U.S. adult diets — and close to 70% for children. New U.S.-focused research published in the American Journal of Public Health links UPF consumption to chronic disease\, cognitive impairment\, and addiction — and exposes how major tobacco companies engineered the modern UPF industry. As we learn more about the dangers that UPFs pose to public health and confront the corporate influence that makes them readily available\, the need for public education and policy change becomes increasingly urgent. \n\n\n\nIn response\, a growing movement of funders\, together with doctors\, scientists\, educators\, and policy advocates\, launched FedUp! to realize a shared vision: a nation nourished by real food\, not UPFs. This science-first public education movement translates UPF research for families\, communities\, and policymakers\, promotes innovative collaboration among individuals and institutions\, supports results-driven grantmaking\, and offers a trusted platform for new philanthropic investment in this space. \n\n\n\nJoin this webinar to hear from expert scientists about how corporations have intentionally shaped the systems\, products\, and narratives behind UPFs\, the policy reform landscape\, and how to get involved with FedUP! \n\n\n\nSpeakers \n\n\n\n\nRachel Roller\, President and Chief Executive Officer\, Dohmen Company Foundation (Moderator)\n\n\n\nKelly D. Brownell\, Ph.D.\, Professor Emeritus in the Sanford School of Public Policy Affiliate\, Duke Global Health Institute\n\n\n\nScott Faber\, Senior Vice President\, Environmental Working Group\n\n\n\nAshley Gearhardt\, Ph.D.\, Chair\, Clinical Science Area\, University of Michigan\n\n\n\nBrad Leibov\, President and Chief Executive Officer\, EarthShare\n\n\n\nLaura A. Schmidt\, Ph.D.\, Professor\, Institute for Health Policy Studies\, School of Medicine\, University of California at San Francisco\n\n\n\nLindsey Smith Taillie\, Ph.D.\, Director\, Global Food Research Program\, University of North Carolina\, Chapel Hill\n\n\n\n\nThis webinar is open to all funders. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n Funder-Only Registration\n \n "*" indicates required fields \n \n CommentsThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.This field is hidden when viewing the formRegisterName*\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n Organization*Title*Email*\n \n Are you a funder?*\n \n Yes\, I am affiliated with a funding organization.\n SAFSF defines funders as staff\, board members\, trustees\, donors\, program officers\, and other professionals from organizations using grantmaking or investments as a core strategy to fulfill their mission.\nThis field is hidden when viewing the formEvent Name\nIt may take longer than expected to process your submission\, please only click submit once.\n Submit URL:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/event/understanding-the-links-between-ultra-processed-foods-chronic-disease-corporate-power-and-growing-calls-for-government-action/ CATEGORIES:Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Ultra-Processed-Foods-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260915T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260915T235959 DTSTAMP:20260806T190750Z CREATED:20260806T031338Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260806T190750Z UID:10000778-1789430400-1789516799@www.agandfoodfunders.org SUMMARY:Deadline: Open Call for Ideas for Critical Conversations DESCRIPTION:The future of a resilient\, just\, and democratic food and agriculture system relies on more connected communities\, aligned strategies\, and increased resources. SAFSF recognizes the need for diverse capital partners to better coordinate around specific levers of change and regional opportunities\, in alignment with the communities they serve. We also hear the need for more candid\, strategic\, and regionally accessible gatherings that can grow investment in food systems and foster greater alignment within and beyond the funder community.  \n\n\n\nThat’s why we are launching ‘Critical Conversations’—a member-driven series of in person gatherings in 2027. As previously announced\, the SAFSF Forum will happen every 18 months\, which gives our membership the space to meet in more focused ways next year. This is an opportunity for funders to lead and dive deeper on issues and opportunities that require more alignment.  \n\n\n\nThis is an Open Call to SAFSF Members to partner with SAFSF to host Critical Conversations in 2027. Together\, we’ll create catalytic conversations that strengthen relationships\, spark collaboration\, and grow investment in resilient\, just\, and democratic food systems. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLEARN MORE\n\n\n\nSUBMIT YOUR IDEA URL:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/event/deadline-open-call-for-ideas-for-critical-conversations/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/SAFSF-DAY2-664-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260917T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260917T140000 DTSTAMP:20260727T175139Z CREATED:20260723T041320Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260727T175139Z UID:10000772-1789650000-1789653600@www.agandfoodfunders.org SUMMARY:Gather Round Monthly Membership Call DESCRIPTION:The Gather Round Monthly Membership Calls\, held on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm PST / 4 pm EST\, serve as a regular “drop in” space for SAFSF members. These calls are focused on connection and continuing dialogue on topics explored in virtual learning events and other programs hosted by SAFSF during the month.  \n\n\n\nWe want to hear what’s top of mind for you\, what you are wrestling with\, and what topics you want to explore deeper. Each call will have a different topic. \n\n\n\nSAFSF members are automatically enrolled in Gather Round meetings\, and will see the calendar invitations. If you do not\, email membership@safsf.org to receive access.  URL:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/event/gather-round-monthly-membership-call-3/ CATEGORIES:Gather Round,Member Only,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Gather-Round.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260924T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20260924T110000 DTSTAMP:20260803T195720Z CREATED:20260730T202500Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260803T195720Z UID:10000777-1790240400-1790247600@www.agandfoodfunders.org SUMMARY:The Billion-Dollar Plate: Institutional Procurement as Climate Strategy DESCRIPTION:Co-Hosted by Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems Funders (SAFSF) and Builders Vision \n\n\n\nInstitutional procurement — the multi-billion dollar purchasing power of schools\, hospitals\, universities\, and government agencies across the country — is one of the most underleveraged drivers of food system transformation. When institutions commit to purchasing food that is grown locally with regenerative practices\, it can reshape local food economies\, reward climate-resilient agricultural practices\, and create durable market signals that support a transition away from extractive\, fossil fuel dependent food production and toward an agriculture system that supports biodiversity\, protects waterways\, and sequesters carbon in healthy soils. \n\n\n\nDuring this year’s NYC Climate Week\, SAFSF and Builders Vision will bring together food and agriculture funders and climate funders around a shared opportunity: leveraging institutional purchasing power to drive climate-resilient land use\, strengthen regional food supply chains\, and drive measurable reductions in food system greenhouse gas emissions. \n\n\n\nThis event will launch a two-year initiative building a coordinated national funder strategy on institutional procurement. Participants will leave with a shared framework for how procurement advances resilient land use\, food systems transformation and community-based stewardship\, and a pathway for continued collaboration. \n\n\n\nMeeting Goals\n\n\n\n(1) Relationship and trust-building between food and agriculture funders and climate funders who have not previously coordinated on procurement;(2) A shared entry-point framework connecting institutional procurement with resilient land use\, food systems transformation\, and community-based stewardship\, and(3) Establish concrete next steps for continuing to collaborate on the development of a national funder strategy. \n\n\n\nInvitees\n\n\n\nInvitees for this event include climate-focused foundations with food system or land use portfolios\, regional and national food and agriculture funders\, and experts on institutional food procurement. \n\n\n\nThis is an in-person event open to funders by invitation only\, and space is limited. If you are a funder interested in attending\, please fill out the form below with your information\, and we will reach out should space become available. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n \n \n \n Name(Required)\n \n \n First\n \n \n \n \n Last\n \n \n \n Email(Required)\n \n Enter Email\n \n \n \n Confirm Email\n \n \n \n Title(Required)Organization(Required)\n Submit URL:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/event/the-billion-dollar-plate-institutional-procurement-as-climate-strategy/ CATEGORIES:In Person Gathering ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Carrots-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261015T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261015T140000 DTSTAMP:20260727T175233Z CREATED:20260727T175232Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260727T175233Z UID:10000774-1792069200-1792072800@www.agandfoodfunders.org SUMMARY:Gather Round Monthly Membership Call DESCRIPTION:The Gather Round Monthly Membership Calls\, held on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm PST / 4 pm EST\, serve as a regular “drop in” space for SAFSF members. These calls are focused on connection and continuing dialogue on topics explored in virtual learning events and other programs hosted by SAFSF during the month.  \n\n\n\nWe want to hear what’s top of mind for you\, what you are wrestling with\, and what topics you want to explore deeper. Each call will have a different topic. \n\n\n\nSAFSF members are automatically enrolled in Gather Round meetings\, and will see the calendar invitations. If you do not\, email membership@safsf.org to receive access.  URL:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/event/gather-round-monthly-membership-call-4/ CATEGORIES:Gather Round,Member Only,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Gather-Round.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261029T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261029T110000 DTSTAMP:20251211T190339Z CREATED:20251210T193038Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251211T190339Z UID:10000728-1793268000-1793271600@www.agandfoodfunders.org SUMMARY:Movement-Aligned Funding Learning Community DESCRIPTION:Systems change requires a deliberate shift in power. In a landscape where the industrial\, consolidated\, and corporate food system is well-funded\, deeply entrenched\, and politically coordinated\, community-led movements must be equally robust—supported with consistent resources\, strong social infrastructure\, and long-term investment. \n\n\n\nShifting power means centering and following the leadership of those most affected by injustice—Black\, Indigenous\, and People of Color; immigrants; workers; 2SLGBTQIA+ people; women; disabled\, low-income\, poor\, and other urban and rural marginalized communities. Movements for food justice and food sovereignty need sustained investment in the organizing\, coalition-building\, and leadership development that enable communities to build and wield power over time. \n\n\n\nThis requires resources that are distributed nationally\, regionally\, and locally to support base building\, advocacy\, and community-led interventions across local\, state\, Tribal\, and national scales. Social and structural change is only possible when communities have the time\, infrastructure\, and capacity to organize—not just react. \n\n\n\nFunders play a critical role in supporting this work. To be “movement-aligned\,” funders must adapt practices and priorities to the values and leadership of frontline communities. This includes trusting community governance\, supporting grassroots leadership\, sharing decision-making power\, and shifting traditional funder prerogatives—even when it is uncomfortable. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWho Is This For?\n\n\n\nThis quarterly\, peer-led Learning Community is open to all SAFSF members. It is a space for honest dialogue\, where funders can share practices\, mistakes\, uncertainties\, and lessons learned with a shared intention of improving accountability to the communities most impacted by food system injustice. \n\n\n\nWe will read short pieces together and periodically invite movement leaders to ground the conversation. However\, this is not a curriculum-based or exhaustive learning space\, and we recognize that funders must seek learning directly\, in non-extractive ways\, from grassroots organizations and frontline leaders beyond this setting. Rather\, this Learning Community is designed to help funders learn about the principles and mechanics of movement building and do the internal work to be an effective ally.  \n\n\n\nAll SAFSF members are welcome\, and we especially encourage funders who are newer to movement-building or movement-aligned grantmaking or investing to participate. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhy a Funder-Only Learning Community on Movement-Aligned Funding?\n\n\n\nThis space is intentionally designed for funders because: \n\n\n\n\nFunders need a place to build internal discipline and accountability without placing additional burdens on movement leaders to constantly educate them.\n\n\n\nFunders must examine their own power\, habits\, and practices—work that often requires internal organizing and strategy alignment.\n\n\n\nFunders need to be prepared before meaningfully engaging with movement partners\, so that conversations with frontline leaders are not extractive\, repetitive\, or centering funder needs.\n\n\n\nThis learning community complements—not replaces—direct engagement with movement organizations. The core purpose is to strengthen funders’ readiness to show up better in those relationships.\n\n\n\n\nOur intention is to help funders transform their practices to be accountable partners in multiracial\, frontline-led movements\, not to create a bubble where funders only talk to funders. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLearning Community Goals\n\n\n\n\nLearn about principles of long-term movement building for systems change from experienced practitioners and through the examination of successful examples in food systems context.\n\n\n\nBetter understand investment needs and funding practices that center the leadership of impacted communities\, support movement building\, and community-led food systems transformation.\n\n\n\nLearn and exchange best practices to increase frontline and grassroots organizations’ capacity (e.g.\, time\, financial resources\, communications infrastructure) so they can build leadership and power within the broader movement ecosystem.\n\n\n\nExplore the importance of organizing across the capital spectrum and across different issue areas (e.g.\, health\, food\, climate\, environment) in alignment with frontline communities of color and movement organizations.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBackground and Details \n\n\n\n\nThe idea for this new Learning Community came from two SAFSF Members— Chicago Food Policy Action Council and Michigan State University’s Center for Regional Food Systems—and follows a networking session with both funders and practitioners at the SAFSF Forum in 2025. \n\n\n\n\n\nCalls will not be recorded to facilitate more transparent conversations. \n\n\n\n\n\nPre-meeting reading materials will be shared in advance. \n\n\n\n\n\nWe highly encourage you to attend all sessions in the series to stay connected with your colleagues and incorporate learnings into your work throughout the year\, but you are welcome to join at any point. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis is a SAFSF member-only series. If you are interested in exploring membership\, please contact our membership team. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nTo register for this learning community\, you must be logged in and a member of SAFSF. \nPlease log in or register for an account. URL:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/event/movement-aligned-funding-learning-community-4/ CATEGORIES:Learning Community,Member Only ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/SAFSF-20250511-3100-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261119T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261119T140000 DTSTAMP:20260727T175420Z CREATED:20260727T175419Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260727T175420Z UID:10000775-1795093200-1795096800@www.agandfoodfunders.org SUMMARY:Gather Round Monthly Membership Call DESCRIPTION:The Gather Round Monthly Membership Calls\, held on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm PST / 4 pm EST\, serve as a regular “drop in” space for SAFSF members. These calls are focused on connection and continuing dialogue on topics explored in virtual learning events and other programs hosted by SAFSF during the month.  \n\n\n\nWe want to hear what’s top of mind for you\, what you are wrestling with\, and what topics you want to explore deeper. Each call will have a different topic. \n\n\n\nSAFSF members are automatically enrolled in Gather Round meetings\, and will see the calendar invitations. If you do not\, email membership@safsf.org to receive access.  URL:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/event/gather-round-monthly-membership-call-5/ CATEGORIES:Gather Round,Member Only,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Gather-Round.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261210T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261210T110000 DTSTAMP:20251211T192232Z CREATED:20251210T193226Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251211T192232Z UID:10000729-1796896800-1796900400@www.agandfoodfunders.org SUMMARY:Movement-Aligned Funding Learning Community DESCRIPTION:Systems change requires a deliberate shift in power. In a landscape where the industrial\, consolidated\, and corporate food system is well-funded\, deeply entrenched\, and politically coordinated\, community-led movements must be equally robust—supported with consistent resources\, strong social infrastructure\, and long-term investment. \n\n\n\nShifting power means centering and following the leadership of those most affected by injustice—Black\, Indigenous\, and People of Color; immigrants; workers; 2SLGBTQIA+ people; women; disabled\, low-income\, poor\, and other urban and rural marginalized communities. Movements for food justice and food sovereignty need sustained investment in the organizing\, coalition-building\, and leadership development that enable communities to build and wield power over time. \n\n\n\nThis requires resources that are distributed nationally\, regionally\, and locally to support base building\, advocacy\, and community-led interventions across local\, state\, Tribal\, and national scales. Social and structural change is only possible when communities have the time\, infrastructure\, and capacity to organize—not just react. \n\n\n\nFunders play a critical role in supporting this work. To be “movement-aligned\,” funders must adapt practices and priorities to the values and leadership of frontline communities. This includes trusting community governance\, supporting grassroots leadership\, sharing decision-making power\, and shifting traditional funder prerogatives—even when it is uncomfortable. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWho Is This For?\n\n\n\nThis quarterly\, peer-led Learning Community is open to all SAFSF members. It is a space for honest dialogue\, where funders can share practices\, mistakes\, uncertainties\, and lessons learned with a shared intention of improving accountability to the communities most impacted by food system injustice. \n\n\n\nWe will read short pieces together and periodically invite movement leaders to ground the conversation. However\, this is not a curriculum-based or exhaustive learning space\, and we recognize that funders must seek learning directly\, in non-extractive ways\, from grassroots organizations and frontline leaders beyond this setting. Rather\, this Learning Community is designed to help funders learn about the principles and mechanics of movement building and do the internal work to be an effective ally.  \n\n\n\nAll SAFSF members are welcome\, and we especially encourage funders who are newer to movement-building or movement-aligned grantmaking or investing to participate. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhy a Funder-Only Learning Community on Movement-Aligned Funding?\n\n\n\nThis space is intentionally designed for funders because: \n\n\n\n\nFunders need a place to build internal discipline and accountability without placing additional burdens on movement leaders to constantly educate them.\n\n\n\nFunders must examine their own power\, habits\, and practices—work that often requires internal organizing and strategy alignment.\n\n\n\nFunders need to be prepared before meaningfully engaging with movement partners\, so that conversations with frontline leaders are not extractive\, repetitive\, or centering funder needs.\n\n\n\nThis learning community complements—not replaces—direct engagement with movement organizations. The core purpose is to strengthen funders’ readiness to show up better in those relationships.\n\n\n\n\nOur intention is to help funders transform their practices to be accountable partners in multiracial\, frontline-led movements\, not to create a bubble where funders only talk to funders. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nLearning Community Goals\n\n\n\n\nLearn about principles of long-term movement building for systems change from experienced practitioners and through the examination of successful examples in food systems context.\n\n\n\nBetter understand investment needs and funding practices that center the leadership of impacted communities\, support movement building\, and community-led food systems transformation.\n\n\n\nLearn and exchange best practices to increase frontline and grassroots organizations’ capacity (e.g.\, time\, financial resources\, communications infrastructure) so they can build leadership and power within the broader movement ecosystem.\n\n\n\nExplore the importance of organizing across the capital spectrum and across different issue areas (e.g.\, health\, food\, climate\, environment) in alignment with frontline communities of color and movement organizations.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBackground and Details \n\n\n\n\nThe idea for this new Learning Community came from two SAFSF Members— Chicago Food Policy Action Council and Michigan State University’s Center for Regional Food Systems—and follows a networking session with both funders and practitioners at the SAFSF Forum in 2025. \n\n\n\n\n\nCalls will not be recorded to facilitate more transparent conversations. \n\n\n\n\n\nPre-meeting reading materials will be shared in advance. \n\n\n\n\n\nWe highly encourage you to attend all sessions in the series to stay connected with your colleagues and incorporate learnings into your work throughout the year\, but you are welcome to join at any point. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis is a SAFSF member-only series. If you are interested in exploring membership\, please contact our membership team. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nTo register for this learning community\, you must be logged in and a member of SAFSF. \nPlease log in or register for an account. URL:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/event/movement-aligned-funding-learning-community-5/ CATEGORIES:Learning Community,Member Only ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/SAFSF-20250511-3100-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261216T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261216T160000 DTSTAMP:20260225T200120Z CREATED:20260225T200119Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260225T200120Z UID:10000752-1797433200-1797436800@www.agandfoodfunders.org SUMMARY:Maximize Your Membership DESCRIPTION:Maximize Your Membership is an orientation webinar for SAFSF members\, new and veteran! If you are new staff at a new or long-time SAFSF member organization\, have not engaged in SAFSF programming or member benefits yet yourself\, want a refresher on all that is available to you as a SAFSF member organization\, or just want to connect\, join us! \n\n\n\nThis quarterly membership call features our newest SAFSF members  – help us welcome them into this community. Join Clare Fox\, Executive Director\, and Holly Hanes\, Senior Membership Associate\, for a deep dive into all things SAFSF\, including: \n\n\n\n\nCelebrating & sharing your membership internally and externally;\n\n\n\nMember Perks – including the annual Forum\, exclusive offerings\, and Learning Communities; \n\n\n\nHow to access your SAFSF benefits; \n\n\n\nSAFSF Professional and Leadership Development Pathways; \n\n\n\nTools and resources available to you; \n\n\n\nEvent Preview \n\n\n\n\nThis energizing conversation will excite you for the quarter ahead and expose you to one (or many!) benefits of membership that you were not utilizing to help in maximizing your SAFSF experience. Meet other members\, learn the SAFSF processes\, and get engaged! This event is a free\, SAFSF member only event. Interested in SAFSF membership? Email us. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nTo register for this program\, you must be logged in and a member of SAFSF. \nPlease log in or register for an account. URL:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/event/maximize-your-membership-6/ CATEGORIES:Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/315796b3-2f37-e31b-b026-37d8c833ffa5-1-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261217T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Los_Angeles:20261217T140000 DTSTAMP:20260727T175524Z CREATED:20260727T175523Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260727T175524Z UID:10000776-1797512400-1797516000@www.agandfoodfunders.org SUMMARY:Gather Round Monthly Membership Call DESCRIPTION:The Gather Round Monthly Membership Calls\, held on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm PST / 4 pm EST\, serve as a regular “drop in” space for SAFSF members. These calls are focused on connection and continuing dialogue on topics explored in virtual learning events and other programs hosted by SAFSF during the month.  \n\n\n\nWe want to hear what’s top of mind for you\, what you are wrestling with\, and what topics you want to explore deeper. Each call will have a different topic. \n\n\n\nSAFSF members are automatically enrolled in Gather Round meetings\, and will see the calendar invitations. If you do not\, email membership@safsf.org to receive access.  URL:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/event/gather-round-monthly-membership-call-6/ CATEGORIES:Gather Round,Member Only,Webinars ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.agandfoodfunders.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Gather-Round.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR