Meaningful Relationships
We believe that strong, meaningful relationships are at the heart of effective philanthropy. Our network is designed to foster and nurture thousands of trusted connections across the Southwest. By building these relationships, we create a space for funders to collaborate, share knowledge, and work together to drive significant change in our communities
We create space for and catalyze thousands of trusted connections across a robust philanthropy network.
Our approach to building meaningful relationships is multifaceted. We organize events, host networking sessions, and facilitate forums where members can connect and engage with one another. These interactions are not just for exchanging business cards—they’re about forging genuine partnerships that can lead to collaborative efforts and impactful initiatives.
Building Connections
PSW offers a unique platform for philanthropists to connect, share experiences, and grow together. Relationships formed through PSW often transcend the professional sphere, evolving into personal friendships that result in collaboration and collective impact.
CEO and President of El Pomar Foundation Kyle Hybl, reflecting on his experiences, emphasized that the most valuable takeaway from PSW programs is the human aspect. "Meaningful relationships are a lived experience that I've had with Philanthropy Southwest. For the people and foundations that participate in PSW programming or activities, I think the greatest takeaway is the human aspect. Because it's good to learn things along the way, but the long-lasting impact happens when you turn those professional acquaintances into friendships."
Executive Director of Communities Foundation of Oklahoma Teresa Rose echoed this sentiment, highlighting the role of PSW as a thought partner. "We can be a thought convener and thought facilitator. I make a new friend at every one of our gatherings. PSW has brought us together, allowing us to exchange experiences and perspectives, which has tremendous value."
Creating Synergy Through Collaboration
PSW’s commitment to meaningful relationships extends beyond individual programs. At its core, the organization functions as a hub where members can connect, collaborate, and learn. By connecting the dots, it helps people network and collaborate with other philanthropists, making themselves and their impactful work known.
Board member Stacey Easterling emphasized the importance of these connections. "I’m a relationship person; I do love relationships and I feel that they're super valuable in philanthropy. PSW brings us together, creating a hub where we can connect. Through relationships, we get synergy, collaboration, and new ideas. We make each other, our foundations, and PSW better."
Facilitating Thoughtful Conversations
PSW’s role as a thought convener and facilitator is crucial in nurturing meaningful relationships. By creating spaces for thoughtful conversations, it enables members to exchange ideas, challenge perspectives, and inspire each other.
Noting the value of these interactions, Teresa Rose said, "Every time we meet, I come away with a new nugget, which I value. PSW has brought us together, allowing us to exchange experiences and perspectives, which has tremendous value."
The Impact of Collaboration
In philanthropy, the willingness to share knowledge and collaborate is invaluable, and it’s a core reason PSW exists. As an ecosystem where members can connect, share, and work together, it helps members create or discover solutions to specific challenges.
Executive Director of The George and Fay Young Foundation Lauren Haskins described the impact of collaboration, saying, "Philanthropy is a really interesting sector because there's no competition, not in the traditional sense. If I can connect a funder to a nonprofit or a colleague or creator, we’re always so happy to collaborate. PSW offers real leadership opportunities through its committees and boards, which are a real asset.”