About

Who We Are

JDC explores systemic change by questioning the traditional structures of the nonprofit sector and philanthropy. Our goal is to create open and safe learning environments where we can discuss mobilizing and shifting resources in favour of long-term and deep-rooted change for all.

JDC was established in 2012 to support charities and nonprofit organizations meet their fundraising goals.

In the last eight years, we have witnessed firsthand how current fundraising practices foster competition between community projects and often act as band-aid solutions to deep-rooted systemic issues. During this time, we've asked ourselves is "doing good" good enough?

Then the 2020 pandemic hit.

The band-aid solutions did not stick. We saw how ineffective they were in addressing the unjust, unequal and racist systems in our communities. A change was needed but we didn't know where to start.

Instinctively, we turned towards each other. Amongst peers, we shared our experiences, roles and responsibilities in these systems. The challenges of working in toxic and pre-dominantly white work environments. The skewed power dynamics between wealthy donors and those working on the frontlines.

These conversations have led our team on a learning journey. One in which we continue to examine how and if the nonprofit sector and philanthropy can support systemic change that allows Indigenous, Black, PoC, LGTBQ+, and women-identified persons to thrive and participate in a just and feminist economy.

So Many Questions...

Why do many nonprofit boards and leadership teams struggle with proper representation?

Is it possible for nonprofit programming to create lasting change within communities?

Why do we insist on holding charities and nonprofits more accountable than funders?

Can the nonprofit system support large-scale movements fighting for racial equity, gender equity, and decent work?

Our Values

Intersectional Feminism

A feminism that is unapologetic about pointing out privilege and respectability politics. Our feminism includes race, gender, ability, and class.

Empathetic Listening

We believe empathetic and expansive listening helps us unlearn, connect, brainstorm, and envision new possibilities.

Systems Thinking & Interconnectedness

Analyzing the big picture helps us understand why things are the way they are. As Audre Lorde said: "There is no thing as a single-issue struggle because we do not live single-issue lives.”

Amplification & Advocacy

Through an intersectional feminist lens, empathetic listening, and critically analyzing the systems and practices at play in the nonprofit system, we seek to amplify the voices of BIPOC, LGTBQ+, and women-identified folks, as well as anyone placed structurally on the margins.

Land Acknowledgment

JDC and its team are on the traditional lands and territories such nations as the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishinaabe, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee, Wendat peoples and also home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Tkaronto (known by settlers as Toronto) is covered by Treaty 13 signed with the Mississaugas of the Credit, and the Williams Treaties signed with multiple Mississaugas and Chippewa bands. This acknowledgement does not take the place of authentic relationships with Indigenous peoples but serves as a first step in honouring with gratitude the land we are on.

JDC