An evaluation of Expand Massachusetts Stories, 2021-2024.
In 2021, Mass Humanities decided to invest in telling a more complete and authentic story of our state. We launched the Expand Massachusetts Stories grantmaking initiative after witnessing the groundbreaking work of local organizations who uplifted the lived experiences of the people they served. As a funder and partner, we sought to follow their lead.
Focused on the first four years of the initiative, the assessment was conducted by Sarah Lee Consulting and made possible through the support of the Barr Foundation. From 2021 to 2024, Mass Humanities awarded $3 million in grants to fund 169 projects in Massachusetts.
The insights of this report call on Mass Humanities to find more ways to engage and support the storytellers of Massachusetts. We look forward to listening and learning alongside the storytellers as they bring neighbors together to heal, to celebrate, and to welcome more people to this place we call home.
“Most of the organizations were in the realm of small or emerging or community-based organizations, and you don’t often get that kind of respect from your funders.”
-Grantee interview
The people and organizations supported through Expand Massachusetts Stories demonstrate the many ways in which changing a narrative can change a community’s sense of itself and the world around it.
Reach out to Katherine Stevens, Director of Grants and Programs, using the button below.
