Catalytic Leadership in Philanthropy (CLIP) is a mindset that transforms lean funders from grantmakers into changemakers. Its key skills—listening deeply, building strong relationships, and understanding the landscape—help funders stay grounded in their communities and use every asset at their disposal, not just dollars, to spark lasting change.

This case study highlights how Sheena Solomon, executive director of The Gifford Foundation, puts these skills into action. Through deep listening, authentic relationship-building, and a nuanced understanding of Syracuse’s community landscape, she has built trust, strengthened nonprofits, and fostered equity from the inside out.

Sheena Solomon’s Path to Catalytic Leadership

As executive director of The Gifford Foundation, Sheena Solomon exemplifies catalytic leadership through her commitment to listening, building strong relationships, and understanding the landscape of her community. Leading one of the smallest foundations in Syracuse, New York, she has amplified Gifford’s influence far beyond its size—demonstrating the power of proximity and trust-building as tools for impactful philanthropy.

Her approach is defined by living and working alongside the community she serves.

“Going into the community is normal because I don’t only serve the community; I live, work, play, and have raised a family in this community,” she says.

This closeness has enabled her to bridge trust between residents, nonprofits, and systems, showing how lean funders can drive meaningful change through connection and consistency.

Deep Listening as a Mindset

For Solomon, listening is not a task but a way of being. She believes communities know best what they need, and her role as a funder is to trust, listen, and partner—rather than impose outside solutions.

“Teaching people how to fish is significant,” she explains. “If I give you a piece of fish today, it will eventually be gone. How do you eat tomorrow?”

Her practice of listening is tied to proximity. By engaging directly with people across races, ethnicities, and neighborhoods—not just nonprofit leaders or gatekeepers—she ensures philanthropy reflects the voices of those most impacted. This approach underpins The Gifford Foundation’s mission to be a partner with the community, not simply a provider of services.

Building Relationships

Solomon’s leadership style is deeply relational. She believes trust is built over time through consistent, authentic engagement. Over the years, she has earned what she calls “street credibility” by attending block parties, joining community meetings, and showing up in times of both celebration and crisis.

Read the full article about catalytic leadership in philanthropy at Exponent Philanthropy.