W.K. Kellogg Foundation

Every year, Detroit loses 150-200 babies before their first birthday—a shocking statistic that demands action. Dr. Kimberlydawn Wisdom of Henry Ford Health is leading the charge through the Hope Starts Here initiative, which focuses on improving the health, development and well-being of Detroit’s children. The initiative is tackling disparities in the healthcare system by emphasizing the critical First 1,000 Days from conception to age five. Henry Ford Health’s First Tri campaign encourages expecting mothers to focus on early pregnancy health, from healthy eating to quitting smoking, to improve outcomes for both mother and baby. With a focus on Black mothers, who face higher risks for pregnancy complications, and partnerships with community organizations like Keep Growing Detroit, this effort is creating a more equitable healthcare landscape. Learn more: https://wkkf.co/22fw

In today’s divisive climate, building understanding and empathy is more crucial than ever. Tristan Henry, who has personally benefited from racial healing circles, shares how the core principles of these circles—such as embracing curiosity, active listening and honoring silence—can transform our daily interactions and foster unity. These practices not only enrich our relationships but also equip us to handle difficult conversations. As Tristan says, "You can attract this same energy by embracing these practices in your everyday life." Key Takeaways to Incorporate into Your Life: - Shift from judgment to curiosity in disagreements. - Honor silence to allow for reflection and clarity. - Embrace vulnerability to build stronger connections. Let’s take these practices into our workplaces, communities and homes to create more inclusive and compassionate environments. https://wkkf.co/wfjw

The secret to building an #inclusive workplace? Leaders must become trusted communicators so that employees feel valued and psychologically safe. In our #ExpandingEquity Inclusion and Belonging series, we offer guidance for leaders on how to create spaces that encourage honest dialogue. Here are some key components of a supportive workplace: ● Having leadership that takes the time to ask, listen, validate and encourage their teams on a regular basis ● Creating spaces where employees feel safe to share honestly about their experiences at work and outside of work ● Equipping leaders with tools to engage employees in open and respectful discussions around challenging topics To get tips from the series to bring back to your own workplace, access the full post here: https://wkkf.co/desd

Milk Like Mine’s Baby Café initiative, in partnership with Bronson Battle Creek Hospital, is creating meaningful change in maternal and infant health outcomes. Through bi-weekly drop-in sessions, mothers receive peer support, lactation counseling and expert guidance—all in a welcoming, community-centered space. The program is bridging gaps in breastfeeding support, with a focus on underserved communities, and addressing healthcare disparities. Thanks to this initiative, mothers like Alyssa Hall and Jyla Caddell are receiving critical support while building lasting connections with other families. The collaboration between community-based organizations and healthcare providers is proving to be a model for improving health outcomes in the region! https://wkkf.co/ki8w

Georgetown University’s New Strategies-Rising pilot program, supported by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation (WKKF), provided an incredible opportunity for nonprofit leaders of color to gain essential skills and grow their organizations. The inaugural conference in Washington, D.C. in late 2023 equipped leaders with strategies to strengthen their nonprofits, boost fundraising, and increase community impact. Key highlights: ?? Personalized 90-day workplans ?? Hands-on mentorship and accountability partners ?? Practice pitching to philanthropists and funders ?? A global community of inspiring fellows driving racial equity and healing As these leaders continue to make transformative change, we celebrate their resilience and commitment to their communities. Congratulations to all the fellows for their inspiring journeys and growth! https://wkkf.co/4stw

TrainingGrounds, a WKKF grantee, is setting a new standard in community engagement by helping Spanish-speaking families in New Orleans access early childhood education and essential services. Through their collaborative resource fair, in partnership with local nonprofits, they’ve connected families directly with Spanish-speaking representatives from key organizations like NOLA Public Schools and Agenda for Children. This innovative initiative is a powerful example of how community-driven solutions can make a lasting impact on the future of our children. ?? https://wkkf.co/zbxw

? Proud to highlight the story of Jacqueline Knox, who, through Tampa's Dare to Own the Dream and Infill Housing programs, achieved her dream of homeownership. The city’s focus on affordable housing is creating real change for working families and empowering communities. As Tampa faces housing market challenges, these programs are crucial in providing equity and opportunity. Together, we can make the dream of homeownership accessible to more! Read more: https://wkkf.co/ya9s The GroundTruth Project Report for America

Join MIE on Nov. 19 for a virtual program exploring the impact of a new White House and Congress on the future of #impactinvesting. Gain insights from experts at the intersection of policy and mission-aligned investing, learn about potential shifts in the field, and discover proactive steps philanthropy can take during this transitional period. Speakers include: Cynthia Muller, W.K. Kellogg Foundation Fran Seegull, U.S. Impact Investing Alliance Brett Theodos, Urban Institute Dafina Williams, Opportunity Finance Network Katheryn Witt, MBA, Mission Investors Exchange (Moderator) Register now: https://lnkd.in/eEUqwyN4

We celebrate students and teachers in Haiti who continue to overcome challenges and inspire hope for a brighter Haiti through their commitment to education. Join us as we celebrate Anseye Pou Ayiti, a powerful movement for educational justice. Through community leader engagement and modeling a different approach to education, APA has successfully reached 21,000+ students, 613 civic leaders and 116 primary school partners. We share their hope that, together, we can build a future for children where they are empowered and have the tools they need to succeed. Learn more about their work to "break the wall between classroom and community" here: https://wkkf.co/a05 Nou selebre elèv ak pwofesè ann Ayiti ki kontinye simonte defi ak enspire espwa pou yon Ayiti pi bèl atravè angajman yo nan edikasyon. Selebre avek nou Anseye Pou Ayiti, yon mouvman pwisan pou jistis nan edikasyon. Atravè angajman lidè kominote a ak adopsyon yon apwòch diferan nan edikasyon, APA te reyisi rive jwenn plis pase 21,000 elèv, 613 lidè sivik ak 116 patnè lekòl primè. Nou pataje espwa yo genyen ke, ansanm, nou ka bati yon avni pou timoun yo kote yo gen pouvwa epi yo gen zouti yo bezwen yo pou reyisi. Aprann plis sou travay yo pou "kraze miray ki genyen ant salklas ak kominote a" nan lyen ki nan biyo nou an: https://wkkf.co/a05 #HaitiPocketsOfHope

For over 100 years, Black farmers like James and Bessie Williams have fought to preserve their family land in Baker County, Georgia. Despite systemic discrimination and decades of financial struggles, they continue to nurture the legacy of their ancestors. The Williams family, along with many others in Georgia, are part of a broader movement where cooperatives provide vital support to Black farmers, ensuring they can access resources, grow their operations and thrive in the face of adversity. Recent aid from the USDA’s Inflation Reduction Act has provided much-needed financial relief, but the fight to retain Black-owned farmland continues. In a region where agriculture has deep roots in both history and culture, the collaborative efforts of cooperatives like Feed My Sheep and the Southwest Georgia Project are critical in sustaining and revitalizing this vital legacy. At the heart of this movement is a belief that community, knowledge and support can create a future where Black farmers thrive. Read more: https://wkkf.co/i24q The GroundTruth Project Report for America