Business Details
39 Years
experience
Empowering Communities Through Collaborative Philanthropy
Philanthropiece is a 501(c)(3) operating foundation dedicated to empowering communities through sustainable partnerships and locally-driven decision-making. Founded in 1987 by social entrepreneur Libby Cook, we work across Colorado, US; Guatemala; and Mexico to catalyze social change by centering equity, diversity, and inclusion. Our approach prioritizes collaboration with grassroots leaders, organizations, and movements to address systemic inequities through economic justice, climate action, Indigenous advocacy, and youth empowerment. With over three decades of experience, we challenge traditional philanthropy models by prioritizing community-led solutions and fostering global connections.Our team combines deep local knowledge with a commitment to anti-racist practices, ensuring resources directly support initiatives identified by those most impacted. We specialize in financial wellness programs, community resilience building, and educational scholarships, operating with transparency and accountability. Our values of integrity, celebration, and innovation guide every partnership, ensuring long-term, transformative impact. By leveraging resources and convening stakeholders, we amplify marginalized voices and create pathways for systemic change. Our work reflects a belief that joy and solidarity are essential to dismantling oppression and building equitable societies.
Services
Climate Justice Collaborative
Financial Health Course
Indigenous Advocacy
Scholars Program
Community Resilience Building
Youth Leadership Training
Social Entrepreneurship Cultivator
Equity Grantmaking
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- We prioritize community-led decision-making processes for lasting impact
- Our team has over 35 years of experience in international philanthropy
- We implement anti-racist practices across all organizational operations
- Our work spans three countries with culturally specific local leadership
- We focus on systemic change rather than temporary solutions
Services
Climate Justice Collaborative
Our Climate Justice Collaborative activates collective efforts among Boulder County organizations to create equitable climate action initiatives. We connect local groups to leverage resources and expertise, ensuring marginalized communities lead climate solutions. This program addresses environmental inequities while building sustainable partnerships for long-term impact.
Financial Health Course
The Financial Health Course improves community members' access to equitable financial services and personal/business finance education. We implement community savings groups and financial wellness training in Mexico to reduce poverty and build economic resilience through locally-driven approaches.
Indigenous Advocacy
Our Indigenous Advocacy programs center Native-led initiatives across strategic regions. We support projects that advance Indigenous rights, cultural preservation, and self-determination through grantmaking and capacity-building partnerships with local organizations and communities.
Filantropis Scholars Program
The Filantropis Scholars Program in Guatemala provides academic support to students in Chajul. We train youth as conscientious leaders through educational access, mentorship, and opportunities for transformative action that benefit both individuals and their communities.
Social Entrepreneurship Cultivator
This initiative supports locally-shaped social enterprises through resource leveraging and partnership building. We foster innovative solutions to community challenges by connecting entrepreneurs with funding, expertise, and networks to scale impactful projects sustainably.
People
Elizabeth C. Cook
Founder & Co-Chair
Elizabeth C. Cook founded Philanthropiece in 1987 and co-chairs the organization. With decades of experience in social entrepreneurship, she leads strategic direction while maintaining commitment to community-driven philanthropy and anti-racist practices.
Joan M. Knudson
Co-Chair
Joan M. Knudson co-chairs Philanthropiece alongside Libby Cook. She brings extensive nonprofit leadership experience, focusing on organizational development and partnership building to advance the foundation's mission across three countries.
Katie Doyle Myers
Executive Director
Katie Doyle Myers serves as Executive Director, overseeing daily operations and program implementation. She manages financials, strategic planning, and external communications while ensuring alignment with Philanthropiece's values of equity and community empowerment.
Martha Drew
Director of Programs
Martha Drew directs Philanthropiece AC's programs in Mexico. She leads community resilience initiatives through savings groups and financial wellness training, focusing on poverty reduction and collective action in high-risk communities.
Catherine Cook
Advisory Board
Catherine Cook serves on Philanthropiece's advisory board, providing strategic guidance and governance oversight. Her expertise in nonprofit management supports the foundation's mission while maintaining accountability to community partners.
Questions
What is Philanthropiece's primary mission?
We partner with communities to advance social justice through locally-led initiatives focused on equity, climate action, and youth empowerment.
In which regions does Philanthropiece operate?
We work in Colorado, US; Guatemala; and Baja California Sur, Mexico through locally-led teams.
How does Philanthropiece select partner communities?
We respond to community-identified needs through existing relationships and local leadership initiatives.
What makes Philanthropiece different from traditional foundations?
We function as an operating foundation that develops and implements programs directly with communities rather than grantmaking.
How can I get involved with Philanthropiece?
Visit our website to explore partnership opportunities, volunteer programs, or contact us directly for collaboration.
Is Philanthropiece a registered nonprofit?
Yes, we are a 501(c)(3) operating foundation with EIN #84-1440983.
Videos
