Public Policy Update – January 28, 2026
In These First Weeks of 2026, We Stand Together
By Dena Chadwick
President & CEO
Philanthropy Southeast
Looking back on 2025, I continue to be inspired by the steadfast commitment Philanthropy Southeast members demonstrated in protecting and strengthening the communities we serve. Your bold action and radical hope showed what becomes possible when we come together with shared purpose.
Now, only a few weeks into 2026, it’s clear that our collective focus and compassion remain essential.
The heartbreaking reports coming out of Minnesota – the deaths of two protesters and accounts of immigrants, including children, experiencing harsh and dehumanizing treatment – have resonated deeply across our region. Many of us are expressing concern and wondering how we can support individuals and organizations standing with Minnesota’s immigrant community.
Our friends at the Minnesota Council of Foundations and the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits have compiled information and resources, including ways to support the immigrant community. A coalition of philanthropic leaders in the state have launched the Immigrant Rapid Response Fund, which is now accepting donations. Their efforts reflect the strength of our sector: We show up for one another, especially in moments of pain and uncertainty.
At Philanthropy Southeast, we respond to challenges like these – whether they emerge in the Southeast or elsewhere in our country – by staying rooted in our Equity Framework and Values & Guiding Principles. They move us to uphold the right of every person to be treated with dignity and respect, and to believe that freedom of speech is essential to a healthy society.
Values are also guiding philanthropy in this moment, where we continue to see work grounded in collaboration, compassion and a commitment to strengthening our communities.
Already this year, we are seeing inspiring examples across our region – for example, the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta’s new Nonprofit Sector Stability Fund, and, in North Carolina, the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation’s big investment into organizations working for systemic change. Throughout the Southeast, stories continue to emerge of deeper trust, stronger partnerships and a renewed dedication to the communities we serve.
As always, Philanthropy Southeast remains committed to supporting you. We will continue to share timely updates, resources, and opportunities to help you advocate for your organization, strengthen your relationships with nonprofit partners, and uplift the communities you serve.
Last year, our sector came together to defeat an effort to raise the private foundation excise tax, ensuring that resources continue to go where they’re most needed: the communities we serve.
This year, we can build on that momentum. Let’s continue leaning on one another. Let’s continue leading with courage and compassion – and let’s remember that when we ground our work in shared purpose, bold action, and radical hope, our collective impact is extraordinary.
Get Ready for Foundations on the Hill 2026!
Don’t miss your chance to meet directly with House and Senate lawmakers and their staff to discuss the issues that impact our work and the communities we serve.
Register today for Foundations on the Hill — March 16-19 in Washington, D.C.
Over the next several weeks, Philanthropy Southeast will offer a series of webinars to help you learn more about Foundations on the Hill (FOTH) and how to prepare for your time in Washington.
Please join us for these upcoming programs:
Why You Belong at Foundations on the Hill (2:00pm ET on Thursday, January 29)
If you haven’t been to Foundations on the Hill before, join us to learn how Philanthropy Southeast supports you both before and during the event — and why it’s important to engage with policymakers.
What You Need to Know at FOTH: Preparing for Hill Visits (3:00pm ET on Monday, February 9)
For new and returning attendees, learn how to organize effective meetings while you’re in Washington.
What you Need to Know at FOTH: Washington Update (2:00pm ET on Thursday, March 5)
Join us to review this year’s policy and advocacy priorities, as well as logistics for your time in Washington.
These webinars are open to Philanthropy Southeast members and non-member grantmaking organizations participating in Foundations on the Hill.
What’s at stake?
In the coming year, Congress may consider legislation to enhance charitable giving tax incentives and help shield philanthropy from increased scrutiny. But harmful proposals seeking to siphon resources out of philanthropy to Washington could also resurface.
By joining us for Foundations on the Hill, you’ll help build meaningful relationships in Washington and advocate for policies that empower philanthropy to make a lasting impact.