Thank you for your interest in participating in the Monmouth & Ocean County Funders Roundtable (MORF) Speed Networking event.
Because this is a pilot event (our first time hosting a MORF Speed Networking Event!), we are starting out on a very small scale. Unfortunately, this means we can’t open this up to all who are interested in participating. To keep it as fair as possible, we will be selecting based on a lottery using a random number generator. We hope this pilot is successful so we can open this up to a larger number in the future!
This toolkit will help you prepare to make the most impactful use of your time to the funders you meet. You can click on the link at the bottom of this page to officially register. Check out this gatheround video prior to the event to ensure you will be technologically ready to participate. We hope the following information and Frequently Asked Questions will help you get a feel for the selection process and MORF Speed Networking Event.
PLEASE READ all FAQs before filling out the form to “apply”! The link is at the bottom of the questions.
Date and Time:
November 3, 2025 from 3:00pm-4:30pm
Event Format:
Check out this gatheround video prior to the event to ensure you will be technologically ready to participate.
– Welcome and Overview: 10 minutes
– Ice Breaker Practice Round: 5 minutes
– Two 15 minute spurts in breakout rooms and 2 minute break in-between: 32 minutes – this includes quick 2 min intros, 10 minute share, 3 min questions
– Break: 5 minutes
– Two 15 minute spurts in breakout rooms and 2 minute break in-between: 32 minutes – this includes quick 2 min intros, 10 minute share, 3 min questions
– Closing: 6 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Who can participate in this event?
This event is open to 501C nonprofit organizations and fiscally sponsored organizations who serve in Ocean County and/or Monmouth County, New Jersey.
2. How do I register?
Because this is a pilot event, we have a very limited number of spaces open for participants. We completely understand that it is disappointing to know you may not secure a space in this event. There is a quick info-survey to fill out if you are interested in participating. See question #3 for how organizations will be chosen.
We will be working hard to ensure this event is successful so we can host more in the future, open to a larger group of participants! We are also planning another PEEP (Party to Enhance Equity in Philanthropy) event in 2026.
Link to “apply” is at the bottom of the page. Please keep reading the FAQs!
3. How exactly will you choose organizations?
We will be randomly selecting organizations via a lottery process. When the application deadline is over, we will download all applicant data into an excel sheet and use a random number generator to pick organizations at random.
Please note: this will be done by organization, not individual. If multiple individuals are signed up from one organization, that does not increase the chance to be randomly chosen. Please “apply” if you are interested by Friday, October 17 at 5:00pm. Link is at the bottom of this page.
4. How will I know if I have been selected to participate?
We will follow up with everyone who applies either way. We have space for approximately 15 organizations. If you are randomly selected, we will let you know and will ask you to answer a few additional questions. If you are not selected, we will also let you know and will keep you informed about future events. Please be sure to include an email you check often when filling out the form as this is how we will communicate!
5. Will I get funding from participating in this event?
There is no guarantee of funding or funding availability now or in the future by participating in this event. Not all participating funders are currently in a grant cycle or have an open application process. The main goal of this speed networking event is relationship building and sharing the great work your organization is doing.
6. Will I get to choose which funders I meet? Will we be paired based on mission/interest areas?
Breakout rooms will be randomly selected and not paired based on interest areas. Please remember, this is a great way to build relationships and share with funders the work you are doing. Even if you aren’t paired with someone who funds in your priority areas, you never know what further introductions may occur!
7. What platform will we be using?
We’ll be using gatheround. Check out this gatheround video prior to the event to ensure you will be technologically ready to participate.
8. What if I am in breakout room with someone from the same organization I already met?
As breakout rooms will be randomly generated, you may meet with different individuals from the same funding organization. Please remember this is about relationship building and each individual has their own network!
9. Still have questions?
We are happy to help! Please reach out to Vicki Fernandez, Director of Thriving Communications at [email protected].
10. Can I “apply” now?
YES! Thank you for reading all of this information. You can “apply” for this event by submitting your information HERE. Please “apply” if you are interested by Friday, October 17 at 5:00pm.
Thank you for your interest in participating in the Monmouth & Ocean County Funders Roundtable (MORF) Speed Networking event. This toolkit will help you prepare to make the most impactful use of your time to the nonprofits you meet. You can click on the link above, on the dates below, or at the bottom of this page to officially register. Check out this gatheround video prior to the event to ensure you will be technologically ready to participate.
Date and Time:
November 3, 2025 from 3:00pm-4:30pm
Event Format:
Check out this gatheround video prior to the event to ensure you will be technologically ready to participate.
– Welcome and Overview: 10 minutes
– Ice Breaker Practice Round: 5 minutes
– Two 15 minute spurts in breakout rooms and 2 minute break in-between: 32 minutes – this includes quick 2 min intros, 10 minute share, 3 min questions
– Break: 5 minutes
– Two 15 minute spurts in breakout rooms and 2 minute break in-between: 32 minutes – this includes quick 2 min intros, 10 minute share, 3 min questions
– Closing: 6 minutes
Philanthropy Responsibilities:
1. Sign up for the speed networking event.
2. Preview list of organizations in advance, check out websites, mission statements, and note any questions you might have, etc.
3. Schedule time in advance on your next team meeting agenda, or schedule a dedicated meeting, to share back information with to your team about the organizations you met.
4. Day of: Participate fully, listen to groups, and take notes.
5. Remember the groups you met with for future opportunities with your philanthropic institution.
6. Extra mile: share information about the organizations you met with to funders outside of your philanthropic organization; make personal introductions to other potential funders in meetings or over a meal; follow up with the organizations and stay in touch.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. How many nonprofit organization are participating?
At the most, each funder will meet with 4 different nonprofits for 15 minutes each during the networking event. The number of slots for participating nonprofit organizations is based on the number of philanthropic staff and trustees who volunteer.
2. Who can participate from our foundation?
Share the opportunity with staff, trustees, advisory board members, etc. Even if the volunteers are outside of typical grant making in your organization, they can bring the information back to the team.
3. What platform will we be using?
We’ll be using gatheround. Check out this gatheround video prior to the event to ensure you will be technologically ready to participate.
4. How are nonprofits registering?
A registration link will be made available for nonprofit organizations to sign up in advance. Once we know the number of philanthropic volunteers participating, we will know how many nonprofits can participate.
5. How many nonprofits / where are they from?
Once we know the number of philanthropic volunteers participating, we will know how many nonprofits can participate. Since the event is hosted by MORF, the nonprofits will be focused on the Ocean and Monmouth County area.
6. Am I expected to fund the groups we meet with? Am I supposed to follow up with any of the groups?
In a perfect world, yes – it would be amazing if funders meet new groups and immediate make a funding decision to support the group. However, with grant cycles and various processes, we know that is not possible for many philanthropic orgs. We will be clear with nonprofit organizations that there is no guarantee of funding or funding availability now or in the future.
We do ask that participating funders put forth an effort to be good stewards by:
– Previewing list of organizations in advance, check out websites, mission statements, and note any questions you might have, etc.
– Scheduling time in advance on your next team meeting agenda, or schedule a dedicated meeting, to share back information with to your team about the organizations you met.
– Day of: Participate fully, listen to groups, and take notes.
– Remember the groups you met with for future opportunities with your philanthropic institution.
– Extra mile: share information about the organizations you met with to funders outside of your philanthropic organization; make personal introductions to other potential funders in meetings or over a meal; follow up with the organizations and stay in touch.
REGISTER
If you would like to participate as a philanthropist in this networking event, please click here to sign up.
Downloadables
– Download a flyer to share with your team
– Download a letter inviting your team members to participate (please feel free to edit this as best fits your organization)
The Grunin Foundation, in collaboration with Orville Morales, is thrilled to offer our next in-depth Pragmatic Activism Cohort for those who live, work, worship, or serve in Ocean and Monmouth Counties! The Cohort will allow for up to 30 members.
The Pragmatic Activism Cohort is geared towards:
This program will teach nonprofits and businesses the importance of advocacy and how they can get involved. The cohort will be led by Orville Morales, who teaches Pragmatic Activism using a six-phase approach:
Why We Exist
We believe that we cannot change people we disagree with until we face them. We work with folks who consider themselves invested agents who care about their impact in the world and are willing to speak their minds through their presence at work, in their neighborhoods, and beyond.
Who We Are
We are a consulting firm whose purpose is to inspire people to see how their actions have an impact on others.
What We Do
Our goal is to help people and organizations maintain a long-term commitment towards the social good, ensuring you are part of the broader, more public dialogue around topics you care about and allow for nuance and complexity to conversations and debates.
Pragmatic Activism
A strategic approach to social change that allows for intentional and reasonable action that is sustainable over time.
If you concerned about any personal or professional barriers to participation that the Grunin Foundation may be able to help address, please contact Vicki at [email protected] to discuss. Your response may help us orchestrate a more successful experience for you.
The training will take place over five sessions, using a six-phase approach. Attendance is required at each of the five sessions.
Phase 1: Where You Stand
We provide a pair of assessments to get a
sense of who you are, what you believe, and
explore the kinds of actions towards social
good you have done in the past or are willing
to do to move forward.
Phase 2: Tree of Influence
We facilitate a discussion to explore who
you can influence via public policy as an
advocate in your region. This workshop
includes a deep analysis of the various levels
of the government in the region and their
prevailing priorities of the day.
Phase 3: Other Voices in the Field
You are not alone in your region, so we
explore the other voices you must listen to
and consider when taking action. This
session includes exploring how these voices
advocate on behalf of issues important to
them.
Phase 4: Timing of Influence
Explore the timing of opportunities for
change in your region and identify the
action steps necessary to make the most of
that timing.
Phase 5: Public Engagement
We will facilitate a discussion to prepare
you to begin talking about your efforts and
develop action steps for you to get started
in your pragmatic activism.
Phase 6: Triage of
Engagement
This session is all about planning, executing,
and troubleshooting public engagement if
things go wrong. But, ultimately, this phase
is about putting it all together and
providing a road map that can protect your
journey from negative fallout.
Who is the Pragmatic Activism Cohort for?
The cohort will accept up to 30 individuals who live, work, worship, or serve in Ocean and Monmouth Counties, based on an application process.
The Pragmatic Activism Cohort is geared towards:
When will the Pragmatic Activism Cohort take place?
The training will take place over five sessions – with attendance required.
Location (in-person with a hybrid option via Zoom):
In-person location to be announced soon but will be in the Monmouth/Ocean area. Each session will be from 3pm to 7:30pm and dinner will be provided. Dates are:
Monday, Sept. 9
Monday, Oct. 7
Monday, Oct. 28
Monday, Nov. 18
Monday, Dec. 9
Who will be leading the Pragmatic Activism Cohort?
Orville Morales – learn more here.
How do I apply to be part of the Pragmatic Activism Cohort?
To apply to be a part of the cohort, please click here to complete this brief application.
We will be accepting applications on a rolling basis and will reach out to you ASAP once we have reviewed your information.
What if my application is not accepted into the cohort of 30?
We will be doing additional cohorts in the future and will put together a wait list based on applications this time around. If you are not in the fall 2024 cohort, we will be in communication about future opportunities.
Is there a fee to participate in the program?
Absolutely not! We are so grateful to those giving of their time to participate fully in the cohort. Those who are accepted into and participate in the program will receive a $500 Visa Gift Card* as an acknowledgement of their commitment.
We’re looking forward to this next Pragmatic Activism Cohort, with more to come in the future!
*Important Note: Awards/Gifts/Stipends (cash and non-cash) that equal or exceed $600 per calendar year, are reportable to the IRS. This payment may be taxable. Please consult your tax advisor. We request all participants submit a W9 regardless of total compensation.
Funding Process
The Grunin Foundation remains a relational funder, providing financial support to grantees while also building and nurturing strong, collaborative relationships. We prioritize being out in community and we are always open to meeting organizations.
While we don’t require a formal application process, we recognize the importance of clarity in understanding how the foundation arrives at decisions and in the process for initiating and sustaining relationships. We understand each individual and organization is different so the steps below could vary depending on the conversation and the needs, but we wanted to provide some transparency on how to begin a funding relationship with us.
Meeting with the Grunin Foundation
If you feel your organization aligns with the Grunin Foundation’s funding priorities and outcome areas, you can book time with Heather Barberi, Executive Director. This first meeting will be an introductory meeting to learn more about you and your organization. Based on this time together, we will reach out with next steps which could mean:
Alignment Questions
Based on feedback, and as mentioned above, we know that we need to be clearer in our process and in how we make decisions. The funding questions provided for further conversation (if there is alignment), are not a test or meant to make organizations do extra work – it’s being transparent and clear so organizations can prepare in their own way. And it’s a way for us to get to know organizations and understand alignment. It’s also a way for us to make decisions and be transparent about it. We know we don’t have the funding for every request, and this will help us make the most equitable and transparent decisions with the funding we do have. This will be a casual conversation, not an application – so come as you are. Show up in the way that makes you most comfortable. We’re excited to meet you!
If you are looking to have a conversation about capacity building (outside of funding), you can book time with Vicki Fernandez, Director of Thriving Communities.
After a year of working in partnership with community and with guidance from our consulting partners, The Novalia Collective, we are excited to share with you the results of our strategic plan including:
Below you will find the Strategic Plan Executive Summary (which includes the information above), as well as slides and a recording from our info sessions, and ways to connect with us.
Our website will be updated to reflect our new strategic plan in stages in the next couple of weeks.
We are so excited and grateful to continue the journey with more clarity, collaboration, and community as we work towards an equitable, just, and vibrant Central Jersey Shore. We look forward to our continued partnership in community.
Please note: we are updating this section of our website and will be adding more information as it becomes available.
The Grunin Foundation has intentionally transitioned from traditional pillars of funding (e.g., arts, education, healthcare) to a more holistic focus on specific outcomes that collectively strive for an equitable, just, and vibrant Central Jersey Shore. We recognize the intricate interconnections involved in addressing the community’s most pervasive issues and needs, prompting a shift in our previous strategy. Below, find our six outcome focus areas for funding. As we update this page, we will accompany each focus area with a few illustrative examples. However, we know that the nonprofit community are the experts, and we are always open to learning about how organizations are operationalizing their work in these outcome areas.
We understand the importance of flexible funding to empower nonprofits to be more adaptable, innovative, and sustainable. Our goal moving forward is to provide more general operating support versus programmatic funding – putting trust in organizations to utilize dollars where they feel it is most needed. This type of funding enables organizations to navigate the complexities of the nonprofit landscape, respond to community needs, and achieve greater impact
We recognize that because of historical inequities, marginalized communities, including groups who have been excluded based on race, age, sexual orientation, disability, socioeconomic or immigration status, face specific challenges in the region and are disproportionately impacted. To support equitable outcomes in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, we value partnerships with organizations whose work positively impacts these communities.
OUTCOME AREAS
Increasing access to holistic wellbeing
Promoting holistic well-being involves addressing physical, mental, emotional, and social aspects of an individual’s health.
Igniting youth changemakers
Igniting youth changemakers is a crucial aspect of fostering positive societal change and building a better future. Communities can create an environment that not only ignites the passion of youth but also provides the necessary support and resources for them to become effective and sustainable changemakers.
Promoting economic opportunities and pathways
Promoting economic opportunities and pathways helps to foster individual and collective prosperity.
Reducing systemic barriers to self-determination and agency
Reducing systemic barriers to self-determination and agency is crucial for promoting individual empowerment and creating more equitable and inclusive societies. It requires a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach that involves individuals, communities, institutions, and policymakers working collaboratively.
Investing in and developing BIPOC leadership
Investing in and developing BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) leadership is crucial for fostering equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging and creating a more inclusive and representative leadership landscape.
Resourcing communities to center justice and belonging
Resourcing communities to center justice and belonging involves providing the necessary support, tools, and opportunities for communities to actively promote fairness, equity, and a sense of belonging.
GEOGRAPHIC FOCUS
We continue to be a place-based funder with a direct focus on the Central Jersey Shore – specifically Ocean and Monmouth Counties. As a place-based funder we aim to create meaningful change by investing in the Central Jersey Shore, understanding its unique dynamics, and working collaboratively to address its most pressing challenges. This approach allows us to make deeper impact and emphasizes our sustained commitment for effective philanthropy at the Central Jersey Shore. While the majority of our funding, capacity building, and coalition building efforts are focused on the Central Jersey Shore, there are some initiatives the foundation participates in at more regional and state-wide levels that have impact in our geographical focus area.
WHAT WE DO NOT FUND
The Foundation grants to 501c3 nonprofit organizations or those that are fiscally sponsored by a 501c3. While we understand our funding priority outcome areas are intentionally broad in scope, there are some areas that the Foundation does not fund. These include:
The Grunin Foundation, in collaboration with Orville Morales, offers in-depth Pragmatic Activism Cohort opportunities for those who live, work, worship, or serve in Ocean and Monmouth Counties! The Cohort will allow for up to 30 members.
This program will teach nonprofits and businesses the importance of advocacy and how they can get involved. The cohort will be led by Orville Morales, who teaches Pragmatic Activism using a six-phase approach:
Why We Exist
We believe that we cannot change people we disagree with until we face them. We work with folks who consider themselves invested agents who care about their impact in the world and are willing to speak their minds through their presence at work, in their neighborhoods, and beyond.
Who We Are
We are a consulting firm whose purpose is to inspire people to see how their actions have an impact on others.
What We Do
Our goal is to help people and organizations maintain a long-term commitment towards the social good, ensuring you are part of the broader, more public dialogue around topics you care about and allow for nuance and complexity to conversations and debates.
Pragmatic Activism
A strategic approach to social change that allows for intentional and reasonable action that is sustainable over time.
If you concerned about any personal or professional barriers to participation that the Grunin Foundation may be able to help address, please contact Vicki at [email protected] to discuss. Your response may help us orchestrate a more successful experience for you.
Phase 1: Where You Stand
We provide a pair of assessments to get a
sense of who you are, what you believe, and
explore the kinds of actions towards social
good you have done in the past or are willing
to move forward.
Phase 2: Tree of Influence
We facilitate a discussion to explore who
you can influence via public policy as an
advocate in your region. This workshop
includes a deep analysis of the various levels
of the government in the region and their
prevailing priorities of the day.
Phase 3: Other Voices in the Field
You are not alone in your region, so we
explore the other voices you must listen to
and consider when taking action. This
session includes exploring how these voices
advocate on behalf of issues important to
them.
Phase 4: Timing of Influence
Explore the timing of opportunities for
change in your region and identify the
action steps necessary to make the most of
that timing.
Phase 5: Public Engagement
We will facilitate a discussion to prepare
you to begin talking about your efforts and
develop action steps for you to get started
in your pragmatic activism.
Phase 6: Triage of
Engagement
This session is all about planning, executing,
and troubleshooting public engagement if
things go wrong. But, ultimately, this phase
is about putting it all together and
providing a road map that can protect your
journey from negative fallout.
Who is the Pragmatic Activism Cohort for?
The cohort will accept up to 30 individuals who live, work, worship, or serve in Ocean and Monmouth Counties, based on an application process.
When will the Pragmatic Activism Cohort take place?
The training will take place over three sessions – with attendance required.
Location (in-person with a hybrid option via Zoom):
In-person location to be announced soon but will be in the Monmouth/Ocean area.
Session Dates/Times: Dates will be announced when Cohorts are active.
Who will be leading the Pragmatic Activism Cohort?
Orville Morales – learn more here.
How do I apply to be part of the Pragmatic Activism Cohort?
We will be accepting applications on a rolling basis and will reach out to you ASAP once we have reviewed your information. Application links will be available when cohorts are active.
What if my application is not accepted into the cohort of 30?
We will be doing additional cohorts in the future and will put together a wait list based on applications.
Is there a fee to participate in the program?
Absolutely not! We are so grateful to those giving of their time to participate fully in the cohort. Those who are accepted into and participate in the program will receive a $500 Visa Gift Card* as an acknowledgement of their commitment.
Is there a way to learn more before I apply?
Yes! Details of a kick off event coming soon!
We’re looking forward to this next Pragmatic Activism Cohort, with more to come in the future!
*Important Note: Awards/Gifts/Stipends (cash and non-cash) that equal or exceed $600 per calendar year, are reportable to the IRS. This payment may be taxable. Please consult your tax advisor. We request all participants submit a W9 regardless of total compensation.
The Grunin Foundation, in collaboration with Orville Morales, is thrilled to offer our 3rd in-depth Pragmatic Activism Cohort for those who live, work, worship, or serve in Ocean and Monmouth Counties! The Cohort will allow for up to 30 members.
This program will teach nonprofits and businesses the importance of advocacy and how they can get involved. The cohort will be led by Orville Morales, who teaches Pragmatic Activism using a six-phase approach:
Why We Exist
We believe that we cannot change people we disagree with until we face them. We work with folks who consider themselves invested agents who care about their impact in the world and are willing to speak their minds through their presence at work, in their neighborhoods, and beyond.
Who We Are
We are a consulting firm whose purpose is to inspire people to see how their actions have an impact on others.
What We Do
Our goal is to help people and organizations maintain a long-term commitment towards the social good, ensuring you are part of the broader, more public dialogue around topics you care about and allow for nuance and complexity to conversations and debates.
Pragmatic Activism
A strategic approach to social change that allows for intentional and reasonable action that is sustainable over time.
If you concerned about any personal or professional barriers to participation that the Grunin Foundation may be able to help address, please contact Vicki at [email protected] to discuss. Your response may help us orchestrate a more successful experience for you.
Thursday, September 28th, 9am to 3pm (Phase 1 & 2)
Phase 1: Where You Stand
We provide a pair of assessments to get a
sense of who you are, what you believe, and
explore the kinds of actions towards social
good you have done in the past or are willing
to move forward.
Phase 2: Tree of Influence
We facilitate a discussion to explore who
you can influence via public policy as an
advocate in your region. This workshop
includes a deep analysis of the various levels
of the government in the region and their
prevailing priorities of the day.
Thursday, October 26th, 9am to 3pm (Phase 3 & 4)
Phase 3: Other Voices in the Field
You are not alone in your region, so we
explore the other voices you must listen to
and consider when taking action. This
session includes exploring how these voices
advocate on behalf of issues important to
them.
Phase 4: Timing of Influence
Explore the timing of opportunities for
change in your region and identify the
action steps necessary to make the most of
that timing.
Thursday, November 30th, 9am to 3pm (Phase 5 & 6)
Phase 5: Public Engagement
We will facilitate a discussion to prepare
you to begin talking about your efforts and
develop action steps for you to get started
in your pragmatic activism.
Phase 6: Triage of
Engagement
This session is all about planning, executing,
and troubleshooting public engagement if
things go wrong. But, ultimately, this phase
is about putting it all together and
providing a road map that can protect your
journey from negative fallout.
Who is the Pragmatic Activism Cohort for?
The cohort will accept up to 30 individuals who live, work, worship, or serve in Ocean and Monmouth Counties, based on an application process.
When will the Pragmatic Activism Cohort take place?
The training will take place over three sessions – with attendance required.
Location (in-person with a hybrid option via Zoom):
In-person location to be announced soon but will be in the Monmouth/Ocean area.
Session Dates/Times: (PLEASE NOTE – even if you cannot make these dates, you can still apply now for consideration for future cohorts)
Thursday, September 28th, 9AM – 3PM
Thursday, October 26th, 9AM – 3PM
Thursday, November 30th, 9AM – 3PM
Breakfast & lunch will be provided at each session.
Who will be leading the Pragmatic Activism Cohort?
Orville Morales – learn more here.
How do I apply to be part of the Pragmatic Activism Cohort?
To apply to be a part of the cohort, please click here to complete this brief application.
We will be accepting applications on a rolling basis and will reach out to you ASAP once we have reviewed your information.
What if my application is not accepted into the cohort of 30?
We will be doing additional cohorts in the future and will put together a wait list based on applications this time around. If you are not in the fall 2023 cohort, we will be in communication about future opportunities.
Is there a fee to participate in the program?
Absolutely not! We are so grateful to those giving of their time to participate fully in the cohort. Those who are accepted into and participate in the program will receive a $500 Visa Gift Card* as an acknowledgement of their commitment.
Is there a way to learn more before I apply?
Yes! Details of a kick off event coming soon!
We’re looking forward to this next Pragmatic Activism Cohort, with more to come in the future!
*Important Note: Awards/Gifts/Stipends (cash and non-cash) that equal or exceed $600 per calendar year, are reportable to the IRS. This payment may be taxable. Please consult your tax advisor. We request all participants submit a W9 regardless of total compensation.
After a very successful Pragmatic Activism Cohort Pilot in 2022, the Grunin Foundation, in collaboration with The People’s Lobbyist, is thrilled to offer our 2nd in-depth Pragmatic Activism Cohort for those who live, work, worship, or serve in Ocean and Monmouth Counties! The Cohort will allow for up to 30 members.
This program will teach nonprofits and businesses the importance of advocacy and how they can get involved. The cohort will be led by The People’s Lobbyist®, Orville Morales, who teaches Pragmatic Activism using a six-phase approach:
Why We Exist
We believe that we cannot change people we disagree with until we face them. We work with folks who consider themselves invested agents who care about their impact in the world and are willing to speak their minds through their presence at work, in their neighborhoods, and beyond.
Who We Are
We are a consulting firm whose purpose is to inspire people to see how their actions have an impact on others.
What We Do
Our goal is to help people and organizations maintain a long-term commitment towards the social good, ensuring you are part of the broader, more public dialogue around topics you care about and allow for nuance and complexity to conversations and debates.
Pragmatic Activism
A strategic approach to social change that allows for intentional and reasonable action that is sustainable over time.
Wednesday, March 15th, 9am to 3pm (Phase 1 & 2)
Phase 1: Where You Stand
We provide a pair of assessments to get a
sense of who you are, what you believe, and
explore the kinds of actions towards social
good you have done in the past or are willing
to move forward.
Phase 2: Tree of Influence
We facilitate a discussion to explore who
you can influence via public policy as an
advocate in your region. This workshop
includes a deep analysis of the various levels
of the government in the region and their
prevailing priorities of the day.
Wednesday, April 12th, 9am to 3pm (Phase 3 & 4)
Phase 3: Other Voices in the Field
You are not alone in your region, so we
explore the other voices you must listen to
and consider when taking action. This
session includes exploring how these voices
advocate on behalf of issues important to
them.
Phase 4: Timing of Influence
Explore the timing of opportunities for
change in your region and identify the
action steps necessary to make the most of
that timing.
Wednesday, May 24th, 9am to 3pm (Phase 5 & 6)
Phase 5: Public Engagement
We will facilitate a discussion to prepare
you to begin talking about your efforts and
develop action steps for you to get started
in your pragmatic activism.
Phase 6: Triage of
Engagement
This session is all about planning, executing,
and troubleshooting public engagement if
things go wrong. But, ultimately, this phase
is about putting it all together and
providing a road map that can protect your
journey from negative fallout.
To learn more, visit: https://www.pragmatic-activism.com/
Who is the Pragmatic Activism Cohort for?
The cohort will accept up to 30 individuals who live, work, worship, or serve in Ocean and Monmouth Counties, based on an application process.
When will the Pragmatic Activism Cohort take place?
The training will take place over three sessions – with attendance required.
Location (in-person with a hybrid option via Zoom):
NJ City University @ Fort Monmouth
Squier Hall
283 Sherrill Avenue
Oceanport NJ, 07757
For directions, CLICK HERE
Session Dates/Times:
Wednesday, March 15th, 9AM – 3PM
Wednesday, April 12th, 9AM – 3PM
Wednesday, May 24th, 9AM – 3PM
Breakfast & lunch will be provided at each session.
Who will be leading the Pragmatic Activism Cohort?
Orville Morales, The People’s Lobbyist®
To learn more about Orville, CLICK HERE.
How do I apply to be part of the Pragmatic Activism Cohort?
To apply to be a part of the cohort, please click here to complete this brief application by Wednesday, March 8th.
Notifications to those accepted into the cohort will be made no later than Friday, March 10th.
What if my application is not accepted into the cohort of 30?
We will be doing additional cohorts in the future and will put together a wait list based on applications this time around. If you are not in the spring 2023 cohort, we will be in communication about future opportunities.
Is there a fee to participate in the program?
Absolutely not! We are so grateful to those giving of their time to participate in the cohort. Those who are accepted into and participate in the program will receive a $500 Visa Gift Card* as an acknowledgement of their commitment.
Is there a way to learn more before I apply?
Of course! On Wednesday, March 1st via Zoom we will be hosting a breakfast panel session from 11:30am to 1:00pm. For more information or to register, please CLICK HERE.
We’re looking forward to this next Pragmatic Activism Cohort, with more to come in the future!
*Important Note: Awards/Gifts/Stipends (cash and non-cash) that equal or exceed $600 per calendar year, are reportable to the IRS. This payment may be taxable. Please consult your tax advisor. we request all participants submit a W9 regardless of total compensation.