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Philanthropy Magnified - monthly impact report

2025 | January Issue - Starting our Silver Anniversary Year (2000-2025)

Board Members

Welcome & Thanks

With high gratitude to members completing service in 2024: Theoria Cason, Jessye Cohen-Filipic, Stamie Despo, Linda Gasser, and Richard Rivera


Announcing Our 2025

Board of Directors


Leadership for 2025 is Frank Kruppa, Chairperson, Don Manuel, Vice-Chairperson, Ian Harrop, Treasurer, and Courtney Owens, Secretary with Theoria Cason as Immediate Past Chair.


Elected to the board for a first three year term are Rosemary Avery, Suzie Brache, Schelley Michell-Nunn, Jennifer Tavares, and Victor Younger.


Elected to the board for a second three year term are Rob Brown, Mudit Nopany, Marybeth Tarzian, and Jum Warritay.


In addition, continuing board members are Jonathan Culler, Jessica Custer-Bindel, Robin Dubovi, Chris Kelly, Terrance King, Carol Mallison, Tom O’Toole, Wade Pickren, Julia Ressler, Pamela Tan, Derek Thompson Reginald White, and Angela Zhang.


For the 2024-25 academic year Phoebe Kyritsis and Ann Wangeshi Kinyanjui serve as Johnson Board Fellows.


CLICK HERE for Board Biographies.

A Visit to the Women's Opportunity Center

We had a fantastic time visiting the Women’s Opportunity Center (WOC) alongside community members, our board members, and committee members. We were warmly welcomed by their staff and fearless leader, Jan Bridgeford-Smith, with sweet treats and warm drinks on that chilly morning. Jan is best known for her unwavering commitment to serving our community and empowering women, not to mention her great sense of fashion. We had the opportunity to observe the center’s impactful work and their steadfast commitment to serving the whole person.


The WOC is a great example of a comprehensive approach to empowering women, meeting not only their immediate needs but also supporting their long-term success. Their mission centers on fostering self-sufficiency, confidence, and independence among women in our community. During our visit, we were taken through the many programs they offer and I was especially impressed with...READ MORE.

Tracking Impact of President Trump's Executive Orders on Nonprofit Sector


After his January 20th inauguration, President Trump signed dozens of Executive Orders (EOs) covering a

 broad range of issues, including diversity, equity, and inclusion programs; government grants and contracts;

civic engagement; immigration; and certain nonprofit subsectors. Some of the EOs won’t take effect immediately, and many are expected to be immediately challenged in court.


This LINK from the National Nonprofit Council tracks some of the EOs that may affect nonprofits directly or indirectly.


From the Lawyers Alliance for NY: Federal Compliance Alert


LINK to what nonprofits might do to prepare.

Our Communities Thrive Thanks to Your Generosity

2024 Gifts

# of donors = 483

# of gifts = 569

$ of gifts = $4.9M


119 Legacy Society members


94 HEROES Circle = donors who give at least $1,000 annually to programs and services of Community Foundation


2024 Assets

Assets: $27,622,482 in 158 funds

8 new funds, 6 endowed


Plan A (65%/35%) = 10.03%

Plan D (65%/35% ESG/SRI) = 7.80%


2024 Grants

# of grants = 691

# of grantees = 328

$ of grants = $5,782,184

Celebrating Black History Month: Honoring Black Philanthropy and Voices


Black History Month is a time to reflect on and celebrate the incredible contributions of Black individuals and communities throughout history. It’s also a moment to recognize our ongoing progress toward a more equitable future. This year, as we celebrate, we’re reminded of how important it is to amplify Black voices and shine a light on Black philanthropy, especially as we navigate the evolving social and political landscape.


For generations, Black philanthropy has been a foundation of resilience, community care, and growth within the Black community. Rooted in traditions of mutual aid and collective support, it goes beyond financial giving to include time, talent, and leadership. From trailblazers like Madam C.J. Walker and Booker T. Washington to today’s changemakers, Black philanthropy has been a driving force for empowerment and systemic change.


At our foundation, we draw inspiration from these traditions and remain committed to supporting Black philanthropic efforts that create lasting change in education, economic opportunity, and social justice. Right now, the political climate poses significant challenges to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts across...READ MORE

Community Foundation's 25th Anniversary Year

We were started in 2000 making this year our silver anniversary. In each month's e-newsletter we will look back at the impact, relationships, and achievements made possible by generous donors and accomplished mission-driven organization partners.


Take a look back through our history by browsing our annual report gallery


Do you have a favorite Community Foundation memory from our first quarter century? If so, contact CEO George Ferrari at gferrari@cftompkins.org and share a few words so that we can share them with others.

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Check Out Funding Opportunities from other Local Funders


As part of the Tompkins County Funders group, we seek to share information and connect prospective applicants with available funding. Local funders meet regularly to learn about community needs and to consider joint funding.


Learn more HERE.

GIAC's

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration at BJM School Gymnasium

Icon Murals

two new murals have been added this year of community social justice leaders who have passed away, located at the BJM School gymnasium


Seeking Grant Reviewers for Our Two Grant Cycles in 2025!

Applications for the Review Team for our Library Grant Cycle and Resiliency Through Healing (General) Grant Cycle are now open! Whether you are a returning participant or new to the process, this is an opportunity to deepen your connection to our community and gain valuable insight into how the foundation works to support local initiatives.


We invite you—an integral member of our community—to join us in shaping the future by participating in our grant review process. Together, we will evaluate and support mission-driven organizations that bring ease, support, and hope to so many in our region. Yes, we need you!

Yes, Count Me In

We believe that leadership comes in many forms, and our young leaders are at the heart of the change we envision for the future. We are thrilled to host “To Be Young, Black, and Dope”, a Let’s Talk program dedicated to celebrating and honoring emerging Black leaders in our community.


Leadership is not confined to age, and some of the most transformative contributions come from the passion, creativity, and resilience of young people. By celebrating their achievements, we shine a light on their incredible work and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.


“To Be Young, Black, and Dope” is more than just an event—it’s a movement to honor these young changemakers, acknowledge the challenges they face, and amplify their voices.


Our honored guests are Jess Brock, Courtney Owens, and Omar Stoute. We know them as innovators, advocates, and builders. They are the fresh faces to a longstanding community fabric. These leaders are the lifeblood of progress. They challenge the status quo, uplift their peers, and pave the way for a brighter future. Their efforts often go unrecognized, but their impact ripples through families, neighborhoods, and broader systems.

Register HERE


WHAT'S HAPPENING NEXT?


You Are Invited! Our 2025 Calendar of Events

Plus Event Resources


> Black History Month Edition of Let’s Talk: To Be Young, Black, & Dope

FEB 11 at 12pm HERE


> Site Visit: Racker

FEB 14 at 12pm EST HERE


> Library Grant Cycle application deadline JAN 31 at 5pm EST HERE


> Resiliency Through Healing Grant Cycle deadline May 14 at 5pm EST HERE


Previous Let's Talk recorded conversations are available HERE


Community Foundation of Tompkins County
www.cftompkins.org
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