Leni Dworkis

I am inspired by movement builders and network weavers who bring their authentic selves and experiences to their work, are in deep and genuine relationship with community, and have an irrepressible commitment to advancing justice. The incredible wisdom of these leaders continues to inform my commitment to shifting the philanthropic landscape, particularly the need to sustain and grow support for systems change efforts that directly address intersectional racial justice.

As the Maryland Director for Partnerships & Strategy at the Meyer Foundation, I contribute to our work through building meaningful, cross-sector connections; developing thoughtful and responsive grantmaking and support strategies; and strengthening Meyer’s presence and impact in Maryland. In this role, I also take a mission-driven approach to examining racial injustices and social inequities that disproportionately impact people of the global majority in our region.

Before joining the Meyer Foundation, I was the director of programs and operations at Philanthropy DMV where I learned the importance and meaning of driving philanthropy forward toward a racially just region. In this role, I developed forward-facing events and learning opportunities, as well as organizational strategy and practice. This work taught me the value of being aligned internally and externally around commitments to advancing justice, and the ultimate impact this can have on the whole ecosystem of funders, community-based organizations, and beyond.

I joined the Foundation in 2023.