Attendees from diverse sectors and organizations gathered, all united by a shared curiosity and commitment to exploring philanthropy’s role in combating climate change.
On September 17, 2024, Austin Community Foundation hosted Climate Philanthropy: Find Your Path to Climate Action, a donor education event focused on the power of philanthropic efforts in tackling climate change. This dynamic conversation featured a panel discussion led by climate philanthropy experts Randall Kempner, Jenny Everett, and Ben Brimble, each of whom shared their perspectives on this work and offered key insights into how donors can play a critical role in advancing climate action.
Launching the Central Texas Climate Action Fund
The event also marked the official launch of the Central Texas Climate Action Fund—a new field of interest fund at ACF that aims to increase climate-focused philanthropy in Central Texas and is sponsored by members of the Central Texas Climate Philanthropy Collaborative (CTXCPC). Kempner kicked off the conversation by providing a snapshot of the global and national landscape of climate philanthropy. He reminded us that while 60 percent of foundation executives consider climate change one of the top three issues facing the world today, philanthropic dollars in this area remain sparse. Even in Austin, where environmentalism is often on the agenda, only a fraction of local philanthropic dollars go toward direct climate action.
He pointed out that many foundations are hesitant to shift their giving toward climate work, often citing a lack of board interest or perceived misalignment with their mission. However, Kempner stressed that integrating climate considerations into existing funding priorities—such as education or economic mobility—can have powerful ripple effects and lead to more systemic change.
Panelist Ben Brimble connected with attendees after the event.
The discussion shifted from statistics to stories as Brimble shared how his professional background influenced his commitment to climate philanthropy. His career in the reinsurance industry, where he studied climate disasters, coupled with his work in carbon offsetting, ignited a deep personal passion for this cause. Brimble emphasized the significance of engaging in conversations about climate issues, particularly with younger generations, to foster understanding, share resources, and accelerate the development of effective climate solutions.
Everett shared her own journey of navigating climate philanthropy through her family’s donor advised fund (DAF). She shared how overwhelming it can be to determine where small or mid-sized donations can make the biggest impact. Everett noted the value of networks like the OnePointFive Climate Group, which connects smaller donors with climate-focused nonprofits, helping them find entry points to meaningful giving. She also emphasized the importance of looking at climate change through an intersectional lens, acknowledging how it interacts with other issues like poverty, health, and education—a sentiment echoed by both Kempner and Brimble.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Climate Philanthropy
This event was a call to action for Central Texas donors to view their philanthropic priorities through a climate lens, recognizing that climate change intersects with many of the region’s most pressing challenges. As Kempner put it, “Climate change is a multiplier on everything else.” By shifting focus and supporting local efforts, philanthropists can contribute to lasting, scalable change that benefits both our community and the planet.
Learn More and Get Involved
To get more information about the Central Texas Climate Action Fund and a special matching gift opportunity for donors, view our one-pager. In recognition of the launch, the Fund’s initial donors are matching gifts through December 15, 2024.
To donate and learn more about CTXCPC’s recommended organizations, visit ctcaf.kimbia.com/matching-gifts. If you would like to make a gift from your DAF at ACF, please visit the Donor Portal or contact Senior Donor Relations Officer, Stephanie Sessa at ssessa@austincf.org for assistance.
Ben Brimble, Jenny Everett, and Randall Kempner are the Founders and seed donors of the CTXCPC. For questions, please contact Jenny Everett at jenny@everettinterests.com.