A Collective Power
In a society that has taken intentional steps throughout history to deny children of color the opportunity to access high-quality education and the careers that allow them to build generational wealth, we cannot afford to fight systemic and institutional powers in isolation. We need a national coalition of changemakers pushing bold, cross-sector thinking and greater collaboration across ethnoracial lines.
EdLoC is a network of values-aligned changemakers who come together to grow as leaders, collaborate as problem solvers, advocate for policy change, and invest in each other’s work.
We know that meaningful solutions come from the perspectives of those most directly impacted. EdLoC’s members come from broad leadership backgrounds in education and beyond and are the driving force behind the structural and systemic change we seek. Each of us brings unique strengths, expertise, and life experiences to our collective fight for a world in which young people of color have the support they need to thrive, capitalize on opportunities, and build generational wealth.
WHAT MEMBERS ARE SAYING
“In less than eighteen months of membership, EdLoC completely transformed the scale and impact of the Youth Justice Alliance. I went from applying for membership based on the recommendation of a fellow teacher to interviewing for the Boulder Fund in front of EdLoC leadership to now utilizing that financial support and those connections to reach investors and partners we would otherwise not have access to. And many of the conversations, interviews, and partnerships we enjoy today are a direct result of the support we receive from more experienced EdLoC members who have chosen to play a mentorship role in our work.”
Armin Salek, Executive Director, Youth Justice Alliance, Member since 2022
"I am forever grateful to be part of EdLoC. As a member, I have discovered a profound sense of family and community. It is in the sacred space we create when we gather that allows us to share our experiences, dreams, and challenges, knowing that we are seen, heard, and celebrated for who we truly are. This network has become a safe haven where important and difficult conversations take place with vulnerability and authenticity. In this nurturing and supportive environment, I have witnessed the power of unity and collaboration. We uplift one another, not out of obligation but out of a deep-rooted belief in the brilliance and potential of each member."
Marcela Andrés, President & CEO, designEDengagement, PBC, Member since 2019
"EdLoc is family. This is the community I rely on when I'm stuck. I have made life-long connections for work projects, podcast opportunities, and career advice. Our multi-racial, multi-sector coalition mirrors the world I want to live and thrive in."
Ron Rapatalo, Partner, Leverage Publishing Group, Member since 2017
Benefits of Membership
Network with values-aligned leaders across the country. EdLoC hosts virtual and in-person events that inspire action and foster life-long, professionally beneficial relationships. Our events often reach capacity quickly, but all members receive priority registration and/or discounted fees.
Unlock financial resources and funding opportunities. We recognize the systemic barriers that disproportionately impact people of color in securing philanthropic support. We strive to bridge this gap by providing our members with training on accessing philanthropic funding and sharing funding opportunities from allied organizations and valued partners. Moreover, each year, we award nearly $1 million in general operating support to a cohort of members via the Boulder Fund, EdLoC’s multimillion-dollar grant program.
Celebrate each other’s successes. There is transformative power when we celebrate each other’s successes. EdLoC platforms voices that have not been traditionally respected or have not always received a seat at the table. We regularly amplify the success of our members by providing in-person and virtual opportunities to elevate them as experts in national conversations.
Drive policy momentum and impact. When we are aware of and engaged in the policy issues, we are better prepared to mobilize and take action. EdLoC ensures all members stay up-to-date and well-informed on policy developments related to our members’ work through regular policy briefings, updates, and advocacy opportunities.
Access powerful connections and career support. As a unique membership network that drives systemic change through cross-sector collaboration, EdLoC serves as a bridge between talented professionals and exciting career opportunities. Recognizing the caliber of talent within our membership network, recruiters and industry leaders actively seek us out for connections.
Member Nomination—Membership in the EdLoC Network starts with a nomination. Active members may submit nominations for other values-aligned senior leaders of color who they believe will contribute meaningfully to and benefit from the Network community and our collective advocacy. Members can submit a formal nomination on your behalf via our members-only EdLoC Connect portal. Once a nomination is submitted, EdLoC staff will contact you to set up a Cultivation Call to learn more about you, your values, and your motivations to join prior to making a membership decision.
Our selection process is currently closed and will reopen in Spring 2024. Once reopened, you should expect the entire process to take about six to eight weeks. Should you have any additional questions regarding membership, we ask that you send them to Selections@EdLoC.org with the subject line: “Membership Question.”