Hello Everyone,

My name is Kassia Echavarri-Queen and I became the Director of the Community Resources team in June. I am so excited and inspired to be a part of this movement.  Lisa covered the overall intention and background of the Equity Fund and Tides Advocacy. I want to address the specific questions about Tides Advocacy and its impact on the Annual Plan Grants.

Tides Advocacy is disbursing funds for the Annual Plan Grants that were managed under the FDC. Simple Annual Plan Grants and all other existing grant programs remain under the direct administration of WMF.

As mentioned the FDC was paused to focus on strategy. As the Community Resources team is currently reviewing its strategy to align with the movement strategic direction the FDC remains paused. During this time, the Community Resources team continues to renew eligible APG grants with a streamlined process. The process for applying and reviewing the APG remains the same as the last two years and under the management of the Community Resources team. Upon the recommendation of the Community Resources Team, Tides Advocacy will distribute the funds. We have hosted conversations with all of the affiliates directly impacted by the changes. 

Thank you for the questions. I wish everyone well and can't wait for the moment we have opportunities to meet in person.

All the best,

Kassia