BY Dion Cartwright, President & CEO, and Talissa Lahaliyed, Equity Programs Manager
We’re honored to announce the 2025 PLACES Fellowship cohort — a remarkable group of philanthropic leaders who are deeply committed to advancing intersectional equity and driving lasting, positive change in communities across the U.S. and Canada.
As we mark the 15th anniversary of the PLACES Fellowship, we’re filled with both pride and a profound sense of urgency.
Our communities are facing compounding crises, from the enduring impacts of systemic racism and economic inequality to the ongoing threats of climate change and political polarization. Investing in courageous leadership in these challenging and uncertain times is not just important, it is imperative.
Agents of Change
Since its inception, PLACES — which stands for Professionals Learning About Community, Equity and Sustainability — has equipped philanthropic leaders with the knowledge, tools, and relationships needed to confront structural racism and embed equity into their work.
Over the past decade and a half, PLACES has grown into more than a learning experience: It is a powerful network of more than 200 alums who are challenging the status quo, shifting philanthropic practices, and supporting community-led solutions that prioritize those most impacted by environmental, economic and social inequities.
The 2025 PLACES cohort represents the very best of this ongoing work. These funders come from across the continental United States, Puerto Rico, Hawai’i and Canada, and reflect a rich diversity of geographies, cultures, identities, and lived experiences
Their work spans urban and rural communities alike, and they represent a broad spectrum of grantmaking institutions. What unites them is a shared desire to create a more inclusive and just world, whether through their personal journeys or professional endeavors.
Investing in Leadership
We want to extend thanks to the TFN members and investors whose support makes PLACES possible year after year.
We also want to acknowledge institutional support provided by the PLACES Fellows’ organizations, and the investment of time and resources needed to participate in this professional development opportunity.
Their commitment is a reminder that by investing in people, we are investing in the transformative change our communities deserve and our sector needs.
On behalf of the PLACES Leadership Network, the selection committee (comprised entirely of PLACES alums), and the entire TFN community, please join us in congratulating the 2025 PLACES Fellows!
