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IHRFG Brochure

The International Human Rights Funders Group (IHRFG) is an association of grantmakers devoted to supporting efforts to achieve the rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the treaties and laws it has generated so that all people may enjoy a truly and fully human existence.

The IHRFG began in 1994 as a group of U.S. foundations with "International Human Rights" programs that addressed human rights issues in other parts of the world. Reflecting important advances in the field of human rights, the Group no longer treats human rights as a matter "out there" but rather recognizes the value of human rights work even in the U.S. Now it is IHRFG itself that is international, with members in Canada, Europe and the global South.

To support efforts to achieve a more just world, the Group works to:

• Promote the exchange of information and collaboration among grantmakers;
• Improve the use, reach and effectiveness of existing resources;
• Expand resources to meet the growing needs of the field;
• Help other funders to explore the added value of a human rights approach.

A steering committee, made up of volunteers drawn from IHRFG membership, organizes and provides guidance for IHRFG programs and initiatives.  Andrew Park, whose position as coordinator is generously underwritten by Wellspring Advisors, heads the committee.

Services for Participating Grantmakers

IHRFG programs and services are continually evolving to address the growing needs of the human rights community, both grantseekers and grantmakers at home and abroad. The IHRFG offers you the opportunity to:

• Hear and engage leading human rights practitioners, policy makers and scholars on timely human rights issues at meetings held twice a year;

• Network with other grant makers supporting a wide range of issues and rights throughout the world, including the United States;

• Explore with colleagues new approaches, lessons learned and innovative methods to strengthen your grantmaking;

• Receive information and updates about important developments in the field, policy matters, seminars, and events via our listserv;

• Request assistance in obtaining information, materials, suggestions for speakers, and contacts with human rights organizations around the world;

• Access the members' section of our Web site in addition to public and searchable Funders Directory, which contains information on funding, grants, human rights support, geographic focus and more;

• Join or form a working group focused on specialized area of concern like Disability Rights, Get Off Your Assets!, Fund for Global Human Rights, or Human Rights in the U.S.