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P4HE aims to keep the public health equity field growing and thriving by sharing a broad range of ideas and perspectives from Collaborative member and experts.
Monthly Featured Topic: The Role of Philanthropy in Advancing Health Equity
P4HE spotlight: Philanthropy for health equity
Philanthropy has a critical role to play in ensuring that health disparities are acknowledged and addressed. This blog post provides a curated list of resources designed to level set for policy makers, private sector leaders, community members, academics, researchers, advocates, and philanthropists. Whether you’re looking to establish a strong foundation or grow a comprehensive understanding, these tools are here to support your journey.
The role of philanthropy in systems change
For the better part of a century, responsive giving to address existing needs was the preferred approach for philanthropy. But toward the latter part of the 20th Century, astute grant makers began to explore ways to address root causes of social issues – how to prevent disease rather than treat it, how to foster stable housing rather than temporary shelters, or how to improve access to quality education rather than provide remediation.
The role of philanthropy in addressing health equity
The stark disparities that were exposed during the COVID-19 crisis necessitated that both individuals and organizations commit to eliminating health inequities. As we emerge from the pandemic, communities, providers, and other members of the health care ecosystem are universally embracing these commitments. Even at Third Horizon Strategies, we are prioritizing health equity through the launch of the Health Equity Project.
Community Voices
You don’t need a big idea to get started to make a change in the community. I think just going to a community event [or] a listening session - just to hear people talk about their lives and lived experience - that’s where it starts. From there, you identify where you can help.
- Adam C. Alexander, Assistant Professor, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center