T H E P I T T S B U R G H F O U N D AT I O N 1 0 F O R U M TAMARA WHITING, FOUNDER OF THE NONPROFIT SISTERFRIEND, knows the importance of speaking out. SisterFriend is a Small and Mighty grantee that provides pads, tampons and other hygienic supplies for girls and women in need. Whiting has strategically used her voice to bring attention to menstrual health issues. “I take time to go to forums —  in person or online — that allow my voice to be heard,” she says. “Elected officials look to us to educate them.” Those education efforts, Whiting has learned, can lead to productive partnerships. In June, The Pittsburgh Foundation held a “Mobilize Your Mission” workshop for Small and Mighty grantees. Peer learning gives organizations an opportunity to network, learn from one another and better collaborate with each other and the communities they serve. The event consisted of a panel of Small and Mighty grantees and was followed by small group strategy discussions. Whiting attended the event and shared how she makes her mission known. “Last year, I saw an article on Facebook about a public high school with a washer, dryer and free clothing for kids in need,” she says. “I made a post about it on the SisterFriend page, mentioning that it would be great if local schools could do something similar with pads and tampons, and I tagged Pittsburgh Public Schools.” FOUNDATION PUBLIC POLICY INITIATIVES ARE LEADING TO CHANGE IN OUR COMMUNITIES FOR ALL ADVOCACY