Headwaters Foundation for Justice

What is Headwaters Foundation for Justice?

Headwaters Foundation for Justice is a community foundation founded in 1984 and based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The foundation funds grassroots organisations working toward social, racial, and economic justice, with a particular focus on supporting BIPOC-led groups and movements. Headwaters has been a pioneer in community-led grantmaking, putting funding decisions directly in the hands of the communities most affected by injustice.

Over four decades, Headwaters has distributed millions of dollars to grassroots organisations across Minnesota. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the foundation raised $4 million to support frontline communities, demonstrating its capacity to mobilise resources rapidly in times of crisis.

Where will I work?

Headwaters Foundation for Justice is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and operates a hybrid work model. Team members split time between the Minneapolis office for community engagement and collaborative work, and remote working for focused tasks and flexibility.

What is the Headwaters team like?

With approximately 20 employees, Headwaters is a small, deeply mission-driven team of grantmakers, programme officers, communications specialists, and operations staff. The team reflects the communities they serve and brings extensive experience in philanthropy, community organising, and social justice advocacy.

The culture is rooted in the foundation's values of equity, community power, and accountability. As an organisation that funds justice work, Headwaters is committed to practising internally the values it promotes externally.

Work-Life Balance

Headwaters Foundation for Justice operates a 4-day work week with 32 hours per week at full salary. This schedule reflects the foundation's commitment to modelling the kind of equitable, sustainable workplace practices it advocates for through its grantmaking. The 4-day week supports employee wellbeing and recognises that justice work requires rest and renewal.

Perks and Benefits

• 4-day work week (32 hours) at full salary
• Healthcare benefits
• Professional development opportunities
• Hybrid work flexibility
• Mission-driven work advancing social justice