As I embarked on my first 100 days as president and CEO of the Central New York Community Foundation, it was paramount to me that I heard from you. That is why I am fueled by the invaluable insights gleaned from our recent listening sessions in Onondaga and Madison counties. These powerful forums gave voice to pressing issues that confront our region and the resolve needed to address them.
Throughout these discussions, a clear and resounding message emerged: The time for action is now. We face multifaceted challenges, including the need for safe, affordable housing and equitable access to healthy food, mental health services, youth and workforce development opportunities, and much more. These issues are not isolated; they are interconnected, woven into the fabric of our daily lives and impacting every member of our community.
While the needs in our region are great, I found myself inspired by a common theme throughout the dialogue sessions. I heard a consistent, optimistic desire to work together toward a shared goal — to create a community where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. The Community Foundation can play a pivotal role in funneling that collective energy into a powerful drive for change.
Nonprofit and community-based organizations of all sizes and scopes are the heart and soul of this region. They are on the frontlines of service delivery, addressing the needs of residents most in need with dedication and compassion. We pledge to unleash their power with the resources they said they needed most — funding, collaboration and networks of learning. It is also important that the Community Foundation continue to grow so that we can lean into some of these extraordinary regional priorities more than we ever have before.
But we cannot do this alone. All community members can do their part to make Central New York a great place to live for future generations. The words ”philanthropy” and ”charitable giving” sound inaccessible to some — perhaps merely reserved for the wealthy. But the reality is, if everyone gave in a way that works for them — through their time, talent or treasure — the impact of their collective giving would be almost immeasurable.
We need your partnership, your passion and your unwavering commitment to building a better future for all. Together, let us be intentional and resolute in heeding the call to action that these listening sessions have inspired. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our shared vision.
