This spring, leaders from five local grassroots groups celebrated their completion of The Leadership Classroom (TLC). After participating in monthly training sessions, each group received a grant to implement a community project that was proposed and planned during their training.
Each organization is addressing a unique and specific need in Central New York:
Baby Momma Association
Baby Momma Association received funding for Nurturing Beginnings: Layette and Education, a program providing first-time mothers ages 16-24 with a month of newborn essentials and practical guidance on breastfeeding, postpartum care and infant health. Participants in the program also receive resources on diaper rash, thrush, urinary tract infections and nutrition, plus a directory of community services. The program, runing through St. Joseph’s, Crouse and Upstate hospitals, is expeted to reach up to 50 new mothers this year.
Syracuse Knyaw Community (Karen Organization of Syracuse)
Syracuse Knyaw Community received funding for Stitching Stories, a program offering traditional Karen sewing classes paired with storytelling to preserve culture and strengthen community ties. Funds cover materials, instructor stipends, classroom space and a community showcase. The program advances the group’s work to uplift Karen women, support youth and celebrate Karen heritage in Syracuse.
Little Ladies of Promise
Little Ladies of Promise received funding for Lessons to Laughter, which provides an immersive summer trip for 15 girls ages 7-15 to the Harriet Tubman Home in Auburn and the Women’s Rights National Historical Park in Seneca Falls. Funds cover transportation, lodging, meals, curriculum and staff. The experience reinforces the group’s mentoring model that builds social-emotional growth, academics and character.
Congolese Women Vision Integrity Action
COWVIA received funding for a hybrid digital literacy program in English and Swahili that builds basic computer, communication and job-search skills for New Americans from the Congo. Funds support translators, tutors, laptops and social media interns. Classes are recorded and posted to COWVIA’s YouTube channel to serve current members and future cohorts.
Providing Others With Empowered Resources (POWER CNY)
POWER CNY received funding for five community pop-up events in Onondaga County that connect individuals and families, including those grieving pregnancy or infant loss, with grief literacy workshops, wellness resources and local partners. Funds support event logistics and outreach with hospitals, wellness providers and running clubs. Each event includes a portable memorial wall to honor loved ones and will lead up to Breaking the Silence: Maternal Health & Wellness Walk in April 2027, with a projected reach of up to 450 people.
The Central New York Community Foundation is a public charity that turns community dollars into community change. Established in 1927, it receives contributions from donors, manages them to grow over time and then distributes funding to address the region’s greatest needs. The foundation has invested more than $320 million in community projects that benefit Central New York. It also serves as a civic leader, convener and sponsor of strategic initiatives that foster a thriving and equitable region and address the most critical issues of our time.
