We acknowledge and recognize that we do not all start from the same place. Equity focuses on systemic, systems-level change that works to adjust imbalances and repair historical harms. Together we can improve lives, strengthen communities and build a better—and more equal—Boston.
Who We AreWe believe that closing the gap on the region’s greatest disparities opens pathways to opportunity, prosperity and equitable outcomes. This complex, challenging and critical goal requires tackling the individual-, systems- and root-level causes of inequity. Here's where we are digging in.
What We Do
The systemic and structural inequities at the core of our region’s disparities cannot be dismantled without extraordinary perseverance and collaboration among visionary and courageous partners, donors and leaders. Together we can improve lives and strengthen communities.
Our Work with DonorsThis year’s Boston Foundation annual report, organized around our four pathways to equity, tells some profoundly personal stories about how our donors and our nonprofit partners have the capacity to change lives. We offer deep thanks to our nonprofit partners who collaborated with us on this report and especially to those who shared their personal and inspiring stories with us.
The story in the December issue explores the Foundation's new equity pathways, as well as the launch of the Greater Boston Partnership to Close the Racial Wealth Gap.
Issue on Newsstands Now
The 21st year of the Report Card explores how high housing costs are affecting every level of buyer and renter, while the report's special topic takes a closer look at Community Land Trusts as a part of a comprehensive solution.
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In-depth historical research into the history of zoning in Greater Boston explores how zoning policy over the past century has been used to shape the de facto segregation of Greater Boston along racial and class lines.
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The 2023 cohort is the largest and most diverse in Brother Thomas Fellows history - and brings to $1,365,000 the total amount distributed to practicing artists from the estate of the world-renowned ceramicist Brother Thomas Bezanson.
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The next virtual event in the Racial Wealth Equity Research and Conversation Series will focus on baby bonds and feature Dr. Darrick Hamilton alongside Massachusetts Treasurer Deborah Goldberg and Connecticut Treasurer Erick Russell. The event will explore Dr. Hamilton’s research on the potential of baby bonds to help narrow the racial wealth gap and advance economic security for all. It will also include a discussion of the nation’s first statewide baby bonds program being rolled out in Connecticut and compare and contrast this with similar legislation pending in Massachusetts.
Working beyond grantmaking, we collect data, commission research and share knowledge to inform public policy and catalyze conversations on issues with the greatest impact on the people of Greater Boston.
