We are excited to share the next chapter of leadership at Headwaters Foundation for Justice. Over the past year, our staff and board closely examined our leadership and decision-making models. Together, with careful consideration, we chose to embrace a shared leadership structure. This new structure will help us deepen our commitment to justice and community-led grantmaking, expand our capacity for philanthropic organizing, and create a more sustainable approach to organizational leadership. Shared leadership also makes us more agile and allows us to meet the evolving needs of Minnesota’s social justice ecosystem.

With a foundation of trust, inclusion, and a commitment to transforming power, we are thrilled to announce that Headwaters is hiring Co-Executive Directors.

After over a year of dedicated leadership as Interim Executive Director, Bilal Alkatout has been named Headwaters' first Co-Executive Director. Many of you are already familiar with Bilal’s deep commitment to equity, justice, and integrity, as well as his more than 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. His pivotal role in advancing our work as the Director of Program and Grantmaking, along with his leadership during this transitional period, has been invaluable. As Co-Executive Director, Bilal will continue to focus on resourcing social justice movements and fostering strong relationships across the community.

Headwaters is actively searching for a second Co-Executive Director to partner with Bilal. The search committee, composed of board and staff, has secured Mighty Consulting to support our search. Mighty Consulting is a trusted local leader in nonprofit executive placements, with over 20 years of experience. We are looking for someone who shares our passion for advancing equity, demanding inclusion, and transforming power. If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about this opportunity, please visit our website for details on the role and how to apply.

We are excited for this next chapter at Headwaters and look forward to continuing our journey with Bilal’s leadership, the collective wisdom of our staff, and in partnership with the incredible communities leading the way to collective liberation.

Thank you for your ongoing support of Headwaters Foundation for Justice. We look forward to what this next chapter will bring.

In solidarity,
Eric Howard, Board of Directors Co-Chair
Fran Hutchins, Board of Directors Co-Chair
Headwaters Foundation for Justice