Jamie Allison: Dreaming of Embracing the Fullness of Time

Dreaming in Color

Welcome to Dreaming in Color, a show hosted by Darren Isom, a partner with The Bridgespan Group, that provides a space for social change leaders of color to reflect on how their life experiences, personal and professional, have prepared them to lead and drive the impact we all seek.

In this episode, we welcome Jamie Allison, Executive Director of the Walter & Elise Haas Fund. In her tenure at Walter & Elise Haas Fund Jami ensures its work aligns with community values and catalyzes change. She focuses on organizational leadership, strategy, and governance, prioritizing staff well-being and grantmaking that promotes liberation and transformation. With over 20 years in philanthropy and experience in the public sector, Jamie leverages her expertise to drive real change. Inspired by community leaders, she aims to create a more just society. Born in Chattanooga, TN, and a San Francisco resident for over 20 years, Jamie loves adventure, attending music and film festivals, soccer matches, and traveling.

Join this insightful discussion as Jamie explores trust-based philanthropy and its transformative impact on communities, particularly for leaders of color. Listen as Jamie describes her journey from Tennessee to the Bay Area, reflects on the cultural significance of the region, and emphasizes the importance of supporting nonprofit leaders by maintaining joy, recognizing progress, and navigating burnout challenges.

This is Dreaming In Color.

Jump straight into:

(00:22.0) Introduction of Jamie Allison, Exective Director of the Walter & Elise Haas Fund.

(01:29.5) Jamie shares the words of interfaith civil-rights leader, Valerie Kaur.

(04:02.1) Jamie confesses her love for the Bay Area and takes us her journey from Tennessee to California.

(09:24.5) We learn more about Jamie’s tenure at the Walter & Elise Haas Fund and how the revolution of 2020 impacted her leadership.

(14:02.2) Jamie reflects on the work of Mia Birdsong and how it has framed her outlook on liberation.

(18:27.3) Making contributions vs. making commitments

(21:16.6) Jamie’s take on avoiding burnout for leaders in the social sector by providing multi-year grants vs. one time grants.

(29:24.9) Jamie reflects on the fullness of time.

(36:37.9) Music as joy: Jamie shares how her involvement with SF Jazz brings her joy and energy that lasts for days.

(38:04.8) The privilege and responsibility of being an elder.

Episode Resources:

• Connect with Jamie Allison on LinkedIn
• Learn more about the Walter & Elise Haas Fund here
• Learn more about SF Jazz here.

Listen to the Dreaming In Color Spotify Playlist here.