The philanthropic sector’s ability to influence public policy has been a pathway to significant social change in the United States. Using the current global crisis as a backdrop, this session will focus on a discussion of policy engagement through a health policy lens. Featuring findings from CEP’s latest report, Policy Influence: What Foundations Are Doing and Why, this interactive discussion will highlight the health policy-related actions some funders have taken in response to COVID-19, including addressing the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on communities of color and communities who are most vulnerable. Attendees will gain a greater understanding of how policy can be a useful and an important tool for meeting your programmatic goals, as well as hear from peers on tangible ideas and resources on ways to effectively and meaningfully engage in the policy arena.