Request for Support to Attend

Frontline’s 20th Anniversary: Imagining the Future of Black Institutions

Dear [Supervisor's Name],

I hope this message finds you well. I’m reaching out to request support for attending an important convening focused on the legacy, history, and future of Black institutions in the United States. This event, “Imagining the Future of Black Institutions,” offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the history and power of these institutions in advancing racial and economic justice and strategize for how mission-driven organizations across sectors and focus areas can stay effective and adaptive during this time of rapid change and rising challenges. The event will be in Loxley, AL, on April 4, 2025. 

The convening will bring together leaders and scholars from the nation's largest Black institutions and others who are leading in the social change field at large to discuss the progress that has been made over the past two decades, the heightened stakes in today’s volatile political climate, and how we might rise together to meet this moment. The event will also provide an opportunity for networking with like-minded professionals and thought leaders who are deeply committed to supporting and advancing the mission of Black institutions across the country.

I believe this experience will benefit our institution in several key ways:

  • Insight into Historical and Contemporary Issues: By participating in discussions around the legacy and future of Black institutions at the forefront of some of our nation’s biggest social justice fights, I’ll gain a deeper understanding of the challenges we face today, which can inform our strategic approach to current projects and initiatives.

  • Strengthening Institutional Networks: This convening will enable me to engage with a diverse community of experts and peers, fostering valuable connections that can lead to collaborations and partnerships.

  • Enhancing Professional Development: The event will also provide new perspectives and innovative ideas that will be directly applicable to my work here, particularly in areas related to our commitment to staying the course to support our nation’s most vulnerable communities. 

I truly believe that my participation in this convening will strengthen my contributions to our work and help us better understand the forces shaping the broader historical, political, and cultural landscape. I would greatly appreciate your support in attending this important event.

Thank you for considering this request. I look forward to discussing this further and exploring how this experience could benefit our team and institution.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Additional talking points

Why Loxley, AL? 

  • Frontline Founder Marcus Littles’ family farm is located in Loxley. Littles' great-grandparents cultivated this land, and their ten children acquired and stewarded it to become one of the most successful Black farms in the South. This land holds a remarkable legacy and promise of Black resilience and vision that is sowed into Frontline Solutions’ purpose.

Who will attend Frontline’s 20th: Imagining the Future of Black Institutions?

  • The convening will bring together leaders and scholars from the nation's largest Black institutions and other Black leaders in the philanthropic field at large, to discuss the work that has been done, the challenges that remain, and the crucial relevance of these institutions in today’s climate. The event will also provide an opportunity for networking with like-minded professionals and thought leaders who are deeply committed to supporting and advancing the mission of Black institutions across the country.

How much does it cost to attend, and what does that include?

  • Admission is priced at $275 + tax. 

  • Hotel Room Rate is $179 + tax per night 

  • This registration includes a tour of the Jenkins Farms, rooted in the legacy of the land, followed by a rich conversation moderated by Alencia Johnson on the history of Black institutions. This conversation is intended to develop a deeper understanding of how past efforts can inform our current work. The lessons learned from this collective history are invaluable in navigating the contemporary political landscape.

How might we benefit?

  • Institutional Growth: The discussions at this event will help us better understand the challenges faced by Black institutions, which could deepen our own strategic goals in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

  • Networking and Collaboration: The convening will provide access to a network of professionals committed to advancing Black institutions and empowering communities. Establishing relationships with leaders in this space could open doors for future partnerships and collaborative projects.

  • Professional Development: Attending the event will equip me with new insights, strategies, and ideas that can be directly applied to my work, enhancing my perspective on the future of Black institutions, and I will be able to share this knowledge with colleagues, enhancing the overall knowledge base and strategic vision of our organization.