CAN aspires to be a network of people and organizations who create and nurture a thriving nonprofit / social impact ecosystem marked by inclusion, co-creation, and interdependence. It is founded on the belief that collective voices and efforts are powerful – indeed, all of us together can accomplish more for our community than any of us can individually.

So, what does that look like?

In terms of function and structure, every meeting highlights an important topic and voices from our sector. And, in each meeting, we spend time in small groups to give everyone a chance to explore the topic and learn. These small groups are designed for sector members to build and strengthen relationships with each other.

CAN is a space where every voice is heard, where information and ideas flow from every corner of our community. It is a space where we can create shared understanding and we can learn from one another on a wide range of topics. It is a space where creative thinking and sharing and learning can lead to decisive action on critical priorities that transform our community.

In terms of how we work together, CAN’s guiding principles are clear:

• Ensure authentic diversity, equity, and inclusion through all CAN work
• Co-create priorities with a bias toward action and change
• Share learning and ownership throughout the sector
• Value strength of relationships over strength of individuals (power with vs power over)
• Expand what is good and assess opportunities for growth
• Share and be a catalyst for connections, access, information, and resource flow
• Exemplify and advocate

Why this now?

The pandemic. The bifurcated economy that is affecting different sectors of our community so differently. The resurgent call for racial justice. The struggle to communicate across so many different lines within our community. An unprecedented time of challenge and change. But, along with so many others, we believe this is also an unprecedented time of possibility and opportunity. We have the potential to learn so much from these troubles and become more than we are, if only we can come together – all of us – to listen, learn, and understand. Action comes from clarity and understanding. CAN provides this essential space to make that happen.