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Did you know?
Recurring Giving is Growing
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"I turned to automatic monthly donation for lots of reasons; it made it easy for me: I space out my contribution over the year; I don't have to remember to write a check or make a special payment on-line." Mary Pat Dolan
Mary Pat is one of many donors enrolled in recurring giving. Up from 46%, American donors are now 57% more likely to prefer to give monthly at an average of $25/month. In part because of the ease and security and it is a budget-friendly option.
We invite you to participate in any amount at an interval that you decide. Gift amounts can change or be canceled at anytime.
"Nonprofits are coming to us more than ever. Our budget is tight this year and our expenses are very tightly controlled. To ensure that funds are available to make grants in the fall we are calling on our long-term partners, like you, for gifts now.” -George P. Ferrari, Jr., CEO
| Feeding a Community: Our visit with King Ferry Food Pantry |  | |
Visiting the King Ferry Food Pantry was an eye-opening experience, showcasing the power of community and volunteerism in addressing food insecurity.
This all-volunteer-run organization operates with a well-defined strategy aimed at maximizing its impact on the community while maintaining a high level of efficiency and compassion for the families they serve…like a well-oiled machine. We were welcomed by the Executive Director, Debbie Patrick, and her team who started with a tour of the facility.
The pantry’s success is largely due to the active involvement of the community, both as volunteers and beneficiaries, ensuring a symbiotic relationship where everyone plays a part in supporting their neighbors.
Local residents participate not only by volunteering but also by donating food, funds, and other resources. This high level of community engagement fosters a strong sense of ownership and responsibility, making the pantry a true community-driven initiative.
The pantry has streamlined its processes to ensure that food reaches those in need quickly and effectively, minimizing waste and optimizing resource use. Clients enter a drive-in queue, fill out an order form, then are on their way with nutritious food! The pantry operates...READ MORE
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If you attended our June 18th Annual Celebration, you probably met Carlos!
Originally from the Bronx, New York, Carlos graduated from Ithaca College in May 2022 with a Bachelor of Arts in History and Politics. He spent a year at Cornell University actively involved in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging initiatives, aiming to address practices and norms that hindered minoritized students from excelling.
"As a young professional, I am passionate about leadership, mentorship, and creating an inclusive world. I strive to help those around me to become the best versions of themselves through meaningful interactions."
In the community, Carlos serves as the Director of Media at his church, Christian Community Church Ithaca.
He is excited to support the day-to-day operations of the Community Foundation as the Administrative Assistant and contribute to the mission of bringing people and resources together to build a more equitable Tompkins County.
During his free time, you can find him playing competitive basketball, reading, spending time with friends and family, and exploring nature.
Email Carlos at cabreu@cftompkins.org
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Community Foundation is a means for giving, a pool of funds invest for our community's future and a source of grants for key community projects!
We pride our selves on being a neutral convener for pressing local issues and as a facilitator of mission driven initiatives.
Read about some of our valued partners such as CFCU and wealth advisor, Frank Torelli in our 2023 Annual Report: Engage, Trust, Thrive.
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Inside Look: Lifecycle of a Grant Cycle |  | |
Community Foundation plays a pivotal role in supporting our local mission-aligned organizations and community initiatives. We are honored and proud to support the community that we love and cherish.
Today we express our heartfelt gratitude for the incredible work each organization does within our community. Their dedication, passion, and tireless efforts are truly inspiring, and make a profound difference in the lives of so many. We recognize and value the immense impact of the initiatives and programs provided.
This spring cycle, we provided for 74 organizations through 115 grants, totaling $506,750!
Learn more about this cycle HERE
Have you ever wondered what it takes to hold a grant cycle? Well, here it is!
Pre-Application Phase
A grant cycle begins with planning and preparation. We announce grant opportunities on our website and through community outreach. During this phase, organizations are welcome to meet with staff to determine eligibility and learn more about the process. There is an information session and a grant writing workshop.
Application Submission
We recognize a grant application process can be challenging, competitive, stressful…among other things. That is why we offer resources to help support organizations along the way. Resources include a grant writing workshop and drop-in office hours. Our one-on-one grant consultations were the biggest hit: Here is what one participant had to say about it:
“I participated in this resource because I am new to writing grants. I wanted to learn as much as I could about what makes a good application. I had so much access to sound advice. Gloria is a person...READ MORE
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We were pleased to be chosen to distribute a large estate gift from Dix Wayman who passed away at age 97. He was an Ithaca-based dentist practicing from 1952 to 1993.
Dix and his wife, Barbara, members of our Legacy Society, were always attending plays, operas, and concerts of all kinds where he was often seen sporting his opera cape, gloves, top hat and cane.
His philanthropic gifts were many and generous over the years. He was driven to help relieve human suffering through his giving. His bequest will help organizations like the United Way of Tompkins County and many regionally.
Hats off to you, Dr. Wayman!
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Once a Year - A Free Mental Health Wellness Event!
Better Together for Mental Health is a collaboration of community organizations coming together to share the message of community investment in mental health and wellness.
We must destigmatize mental health issues, and this organization strives to spark important conversations, and promote alternative means of supporting your mental health including movement, creative outlets, connection to nature, nourishing foods, mindfulness practices, and social connections.
We are better together.
Community Foundation was pleased to sponsor the 2024 Better Together Event.
Thank you to the organizers!
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So many friends attended our Annual Celebration on a very hot evening enjoying reconnecting and conversation amidst a wonderfully air conditioned space!
Thank you to Frank Kruppa, Board Vice Chair, for welcoming the group.
The celebration included captivating remarks by Rochester Area Community Foundation, President & CEO, Simeon Banister (pictured below). In five years, Mr. Banister has quickly risen from program officer to his latest role.
A sought after speaker, we learned through his analogy of starlings murmuration and that "data without relationships can do damage" was deeply enlightening.
Take a look at his presentation.
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