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Charting the Path Ahead
Dear Reader,
Living near the nation’s capital has made me all too aware of the intersectional identities I hold—as a Black person, a woman, a Southern-born child raised in the Bible belt, and a Democrat—and the conflicting viewpoints each of those identities brings amid the 2024 presidential election cycle.
I was fed up with the first presidential debate, and just as my head slowed to a steady spin, its rotation sped back up again after the deadly shooting at a Pennsylvania Trump Rally. Now Joe Biden’s out, and Kamala Harris is ready to step in. It can be hard to discern a path forward at this dizzying—and unsustainable—pace.
My advice: find the path that makes the most sense to you. In our collective pursuit of building an equitable world, we know there are many ways to continue this work. Whether it’s replicating Minerva’s four-day workweek to increase joy and reduce burnout, finding communication tools and strategies that center people closest to inequities, or implementing corporate policies that help your colleagues feel supported in the wake of personal tragedy, I hope Minerva’s insights on the Goddess Speaks blog will help you plan your way forward.
If you’re working on a weighty challenge that could use a robust communications strategy, consider joining us for Minerva’s workshop in the fall. There, we’ll focus on key elements of a communication plan, including how to create one, execute it, and measure its success. We’ll have more details soon, but save the date for our virtual workshop on Tuesday, September 10th.
My path forward is leading me in a new direction. Next month, I’ll join the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network—the nonpartisan advocacy affiliate of the American Cancer Society—as chief of staff. I’m humbled, thankful, and excited about continuing my purpose with this mission-driven organization. I’m also grounded in deep appreciation for the shared experiences that I’ve had with my Minerva teammates, clients, and partners. The past four years have taught me that there are multiple ways to push for the greater good—and I know that we’ll each continue to work toward a more equitable future in our own unique way.
Elise McGlothian
Director, Minerva Strategies
Minerva’s Four-Day Work Week
Minerva’s four-day workweek is no longer a pilot, it’s policy—and the best way forward for our work, clients, and team. Vice President Sara Veltkamp shares actionable steps to incorporate a four-day workweek at your organization. Read more.
Congratulations, EIHF!
The Evergreen Impact Housing Fund (EIHF) earned a 2024 Secretary’s Award from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This award recognizes EIHF for bringing philanthropic resources together with public funding to build 1,200 new affordable apartments in King County, WA. Read more.
Connection through Human Experiences
For 25 years, Minerva client Shinnyo-en has hosted its Shinnyo Lantern Floating Hawai’i on the shores of Honolulu. This beautiful ceremony offers an opportunity to connect through one of the most fundamental human experiences: loss. Associate Caroline Hall explores why this year’s event was especially poignant. Read more.
Safeguading the Health of Haiti’s Women and Girls
In an opinion piece for Global Health NOW, Minerva client ALIMA reminds us of our shared responsibility to help women and girls build resilience to future health challenges through consistent health care. Read more.
