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GDConnect 2024: Connecting, Inspiring, and Driving Social Impact

GDConnect 2024 was a powerful reminder of the strength, insight, and collective impact of the GivingData community. This year’s event showcased how our shared mission—making philanthropy more equitable, effective, and innovative—comes to life in opportunities where we get to connect in person.

A Celebration of Community & Collaboration

GDConnect wouldn’t be what it is today without the continued contributions of our community. From our incredible sponsors and planning committee, to the dedicated speakers committed to knowledge-sharing and collaboration, everyone comes together to make these annual convenings the best they can be. 

Kyla Kasharian of the Siegel Family Endowment celebrated the spirit of collaboration: "The people here are all very like-minded...everyone is here to achieve the same goal: making things easier for staff and grantees." 

Alicia Baird from Strada Education Foundation emphasized the event's value as a space for growth: "It’s a wonderful opportunity to fellowship and challenge each other to increase the effectiveness of our systems.”

A Transformational Milestone

This year’s State of the Union address marked a pivotal moment for GivingData. Founder Alf Gracombe reflected on the evolution of GDConnect, from a small gathering to a thriving community event. Alf has given this address at each GDConnect across its 10-year history, and this time he was passing the baton to GivingData’s new CEO, Liz Fischer, to address the community for the first time. It was an emotional moment, marking a transformational milestone in GivingData’s history as an organization.  

In Liz’s address, she highlighted the three pillars driving GivingData’s work: unlocking data for decision-making, building lasting relationships, and championing best practices. Her message resonated deeply: "Social impact is important to all of us. What really drives us is the work of our community."

A Night of Reflection

For the first time, GDConnect included an offsite reception at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. This powerful and inspiring venue provided attendees with an opportunity to reflect on the intersection of philanthropy and social justice. Surrounded by exhibits showcasing the ongoing fight for equity, attendees were reminded of the importance of their work in creating a more just and equitable world.

Fireside Chat: Insights from Leaders in Philanthropy

GDConnect was also honored to host two incredible speakers during our keynote address. Frank Fernandez of the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta and Katrina Mitchell of the United Way of Greater Atlanta shared wisdom on leveraging partnerships and data to create meaningful change. Reflecting on their personal journeys, they inspired attendees to approach challenges with courage and purpose, reinforcing that equity must be a cornerstone of all philanthropic efforts.

Looking Ahead

GDConnect continues to embody the heart of GivingData and empowers a community of change-makers to learn, innovate, and grow together. As we prepare for GDConnect 2025 in Portland, OR, this year’s reflections serve as both inspiration and a call to action—reminding us that through shared effort, we can shape a more equitable philanthropic landscape.

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