Stephan Blanford

Stephan Blanford, a Three-Year Grants committee member and newly-elected board member of the Social Justice Fund, began his involvement with us when he was invited to dinner by another member and personal friend. He was thrilled to find an organization, and more importantly, a community of progressive-minded activists as committed as he and his schoolteacher wife are to social justice.

"In my mind, social justice is about eliminating the institutional barriers that keep people from reaching their potential. In our country, we have this notion that everyone has an equal shot at success in life – it is taught to us in our schools and reinforced in nearly every aspect of our dealings with society. Unfortunately, we as a society aren’t very comfortable talking about the fact that we don’t all start from the same place, and that too many of us have to overcome huge structural barriers that hinder our success. SJF is all about having those conversations, and then acting on what we know is right."

The quality of Social Justice Fund that most intrigues Stephan is its ability to serve as a catalyst for progressive-minded people. "In my work, I often hear people profess their progressive values. And in Seattle and this region, we are fortunate to live amongst some of the most generous and progressive-minded people anywhere. SJF serves as a place where people can walk their talk, turning their values and commitment into positive change in their community and region."

He has attended SJF events, dinners and participated in three site visits. "The site visits spurred on my greater involvement in SJF. That is where you see both the incredible need as you have the chance to interact with people on the ground doing the tough work of impacting their communities. And where you see the potential of involvement with and support of a social justice movement, which keeps me going when I get discouraged as I watch national and international events."

Stephan serves as the Manager of Community and Government Relations for the Alliance for Education, and serves on the boards of two other grantmaking organizations, all supporting systemic change. He spoke passionately about his work supporting education reform. "The issue that fires me up most is making sure that all young people have access to quality education. It is something I’m fortunate to both study and pursue in my profession. I believe very strongly in the transformative power of education as the best way to further our social justice aims and look forward to SJF fully embracing it as an issue and giving area."

"Progressives are people who are not content with the status quo and want to make change, in a positive way. We derive our energy from our willingness to embrace different backgrounds and perspectives and feed off the synergy that results. We’re grounded in values that respect humanity, value generosity and see the interconnectedness of all people." At the Social Justice Fund, Stephan has found a place to live his values.