Abolition in our context goes beyond its historical connotation. It's about dismantling systems that perpetuate inequality and creating new structures that foster justice and equity. Ground Cover is at the forefront, advocating for and implementing practices that reflect this ethos in our work with movement organizations.
about us
mission
vision + commitment
Our vision at Ground Cover is to create a robust network of empowered movement organizations, each operating at its full potential. By offering specialized fiscal sponsorship and operations support, we aim to be the backbone for these groups, ensuring they have the resources and stability needed to effectively advocate for social change and positively impact their communities.
Ground Cover is dedicated to empowering movement organizations by providing comprehensive and affordable technical assistance. Our mission is to enhance the operational efficiency and financial sustainability of these groups, enabling them to focus on their core mission of driving social change.
roots
Born from the spirit of abolitionist organizing in the Twin Cities, our roots delve deep into the fertile ground of the Yes 4 Minneapolis campaign of 2021. Our founders, united in their vision at Reclaim the Block, bring to Ground Cover a legacy of resilience and commitment. This history is our guide, teaching us the invaluable lesson of moving slowly and intentionally, nurturing a well-informed and actively engaged community base to drive our agenda for transformative change.
As we grow from the seeds planted by Yes 4 Minneapolis, Ground Cover upholds its commitment to being a Black-led organization. We recognize the gaps within the current movement ecosystem and are dedicated to filling these with innovative solutions. Our projects are designed to address the unique needs and aspirations of our community, ensuring that every step we take is imbued with intention and imagination.
values
abundance: We believe in the inherent richness and potential of communities, and work to help them tap into their collective abundance and creativity.
transformative: We believe in the power of transformation, and strive to create change that is deep, systemic, and sustainable.
thriving: We believe in creating conditions where people and communities can truly thrive, and work to promote holistic wellbeing and dignity for all.
What the Ground Cover Logo Means
While peonies and trillium may seem like just beautiful botanical elements, their symbolism intertwined with the Abolitionist movement during the 19th century. Abolitionists, fervently advocating for the end of slavery, often employed floral imagery to convey their messages. Peonies, with their lush blooms, came to represent the blossoming hope for freedom, while trillium, a three-petaled flower, became a poignant symbol of the interconnected struggle for liberty, equality, and brotherhood.
The cultivation and exchange of these flowers served as covert signals among Abolitionists, creating a language of nature that resonated with their ideals and fostered solidarity in the fight against slavery. In this way, seemingly ordinary flora played a covert yet significant role in expressing the aspirations and unity of those dedicated to the Abolitionist cause.
we empower movements
At Ground Cover, we empower movement organizations not just through services, but also through education and capacity building. We offer a range of services tailored to the unique needs of movement organizations:
Back-Office Infrastructure: Streamlining operations for efficiency and impact.
Financial Management: Robust financial strategies for sustainable growth.
Nonprofit Governance: Expert guidance for ethical and effective organizational conduct.
Specialized Fiscal Sponsorship: Offering fiscal sponsorship to align with the evolving needs of movement organizations.
Operational Support: Providing comprehensive support to ensure stability and effectiveness in advocacy efforts.
workshops
>> Our workshops and training programs are designed to equip nonprofits and advocates with the tools and knowledge necessary for impactful work.
>> Each of our workshops and training programs is facilitated by experienced professionals in the field, ensuring a high-quality learning experience. Engage with us to enhance your team’s capabilities and drive your mission forward with confidence and competence.
Abolition and Ethical Practices Workshop
Dive into the principles of abolition and learn how to apply ethical practices in your organization. This workshop explores the historical context and modern applications of abolitionist principles in social justice work.
Financial Management for Nonprofits
Tailored for financial officers and managers in nonprofits, this program covers effective financial strategies, budgeting, and fiscal responsibility to ensure the financial health and sustainability of your organization.
Community Engagement and Coalition Building
Focused on building strong community ties and effective coalitions, this training is essential for organizations looking to amplify their impact through collaboration.
Customized Training Programs
Whether it's leadership development, advocacy techniques, or specific skill training, we design programs that fit our client’s specialized needs.
