July 1, 2016

Sent via e-mail transmission only

MEMORANDUM

At its June 16, 2016 meeting, The Florida Bar Foundation voted unanimously to support a strategic reset.

RESOLVED, The Florida Bar Foundation should execute a “strategic reset” and establish itself as not only a source of funds and expertise, but as a strategic leader and catalyst in the cause of increased access to justice for all. Its primary goal in the immediate future should be to serve as an agent of rapid, effective and high impact change.

This resolution came on the heels of a board leadership retreat conducted June 3-4, 2016. I have attached the overview and summary of the retreat to this memorandum. At its June 16 board meeting, the board also voted unanimously for the creation of a standing committee for strategic planning. The committee will be chaired by the Foundation’s Immediate Past President Donny MacKenzie.

First, I want to be clear that the Foundation’s mission has not changed. This strategic reset is about how best to achieve our mission and use our limited resources to the greatest effect.

Second, I want to assure you that the total allocation of funding available for grants in 2017 will remain the same as last year and the year before. However, as we enter the third year of a three-year projection, we must reevaluate how we will allocate funds moving forward.

Further, I would remind you that the Foundation’s Board of Directors has to approve any changes in current grant programs or the addition of new ones. In an effort to maintain full transparency throughout this process, we will post this memo and subsequent communications to our website as information becomes available. We would ask grantees not to rely on hearsay or rumor, as we will take the time to discuss with each grantee their unique situation. Please share this memo with your board and staff so that they will be fully informed.