We’ve all heard it, ”in these times”. While it’s true we’re living through a moment of real consequence, there’s also a deeper question pressing forward: how do we move beyond reacting to crisis and begin actively shaping the future?

When word spread about potential Executive Orders affecting philanthropy, environmental health, and justice non-profit organizations last month, many in philanthropy came together. HEFN was proud to stand with others in signing on to two joint statements organized by the Trust-Based Philanthropy Project and the Council on Foundations that affirmed our shared values and expressed deep concern about the impacts these policies could have on frontline communities. Even though the orders were not officially released on the rumored date, that moment mattered. It showed what’s possible when funders align with the communities most impacted by environmental harm, without waiting for malicious policy to land.

That kind of alignment isn’t just for a single moment. It’s a practice. A way of moving forward together, especially when the ground beneath us is shifting and the threat of policies targeting our organizations and communities still exists.

Right now, many of the same communities are navigating real suffering. Federal systems are faltering. Critical environmental justice resources are reaching some places, but many are being left behind and still face administrative barriers, underinvestment, and structural exclusion. Philanthropy has a responsibility here, not just to offer emergency support, but consistency and care.

At the same time, something else is happening. The fires burning through outdated systems are leaving behind fertile ground. The question is: what do we plant there?

This is the opportunity in front of us—not only to fill gaps, but to imagine and invest in new structures that are more resilient, just, and attuned to what communities actually need to thrive. Not just fixing what’s broken, but co-creating what comes next.

That’s the work of building new worlds, together.

For the month of June, I’m stepping away for a personal retreat,” and then reflect on what makes that possible: a team and structure that doesn’t collapse when one person steps out, a culture that values inner work as part of leadership, and funder commitments that allow for sustainable pacing.

Then pivot to the bigger picture: how funders can resource movements in ways that support not just outputs, but the conditions for deep leadership and long-term resilience.