Geoffrey Banks. Speed Networking With Funders, 2019

Geoffrey Banks was a man who nurtured thoughtful inquiry with empathy, recognition, understanding, and action through his quiet leadership.  His Chicago roots and international travel informed his vision for grantmaking and of community as a bridge-building practice of participatory dialogue, transformative learning, and meaningful collaboration to advance intersectional racial equity across the field of nonprofit, philanthropy, and fundraising.  He understood the intrinsic value of unity in diversity.  Geoffrey leaves us a legacy to build upon and a vision to continually pursue, to make our purposes and goals a reality in furtherance of under-represented and underserved communities across Chicago.

Our thoughts were captured by a current member of the Planning Committee when they expressed that Geoffrey was one of "our brightest souls."  He will be remembered for his respect for and dedication to community-based and philanthropic leadership, sense of the possible, great intellect, and thoughtful stewardship.  Geoffrey will be remembered as our friend and ally.  His involvement with Breakin' It Down made us better.

Geoffrey's example and his call to encourage transformative voices and agents of change in the field and in our communities are still a source of inspiration for us each day.  In all we do, we remember him.  '                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Please visit the MacArthur Foundation's "Remembering Geoffrey Banks"

SO EXCITED! Mujeres Latinas en Accion, Breakin' It Down's fiscal sponsor, just got a $100K grant from the MacArthur Foundation to support the Breakin' It Down conference and new fellows program! We look forward to sharing more information at the 2024 Breakin' It Down Conference: Rooted in Purpose on Friday, October 25!

Breakin' It Down will be sponsoring need-based scholarships for nonprofit, philanthropy, and fundraising  professionals and students  and community to attend the 2024 Breakin' It Down Conference.  Scholarship funds are limited and are not guaranteed, but we will do everything we can to help you join our event.

Anyone who is a nonprofit, fundraising, or philanthropy professional, student, or community in the Chicago area is welcome to apply. We especially encourage people from an under-represented group - including people of color, women, LGBTQIA+ people, and people with disabilities - to apply.

The scholarships will cover the 2024 BID Conference full registration fees (value up to $60) for nonprofit, fundraising, or philanthropy professionals and students and community who would otherwise be unable to attend the workshops and speed networking with funders. This Conference offers great opportunities for networking and professional development, especially for those serving under-represented and underserved communities in the Chicago area.  The BID Scholarship does not include social components, if any.