Approach
We seek to influence the whole system, rather than interrupt only one part.
The Fund is inspired by the 10 Principles of Community-Centric Fundraising model for grantmaking and roughly uses the Social Determinants of Health to make decisions on how we allocate our funds.
10 Principles of Community-Centric Fundraising
The 10 Principles of Community-Centric Fundraising (CCF) offer a justice-driven alternative to traditional donor-centric philanthropy. These principles prioritize collective impact over individual recognition, emphasize equity and community power, and challenge systems that perpetuate inequality.
For SEAF, this model reinforces our commitment to shifting power toward those closest to the work by centering trust, transparency, and collaboration. These principles help guide our funding decisions by ensuring we are not simply distributing resources—but redistributing power, amplifying community voice, and building partnerships grounded in solidarity.
The Social Determinants of Health (SDOH)
The Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) are the non-medical factors that shape a person’s overall well-being—things like housing, education, income, neighborhood conditions, and access to nutritious food or safe environments. These conditions play a significant role in whether someone thrives or struggles.
At SEAF, we use the SDOH framework to guide how we allocate resources, knowing that inequities in these areas often stem from systemic oppression. By funding organizations that address these root causes, we’re not just responding to symptoms, but actively investing in long-term, structural change that supports whole-person and whole-community wellness.