Disrupting a foundation to put communities first in Colorado philanthropy

This article analyzes "alternative" foundations that aim to effect progressive social change by funding marginalized groups and democratizing grant decisions. It reveals that despite intentions to decouple philanthropy from elite class interests, both models—segregating donors or integrating them with community activists—can inadvertently reinforce class distinctions. The analysis suggests that class is deeply embedded in the core of philanthropy, even in alternative giving models, leading to a "double-edged sword" effect.