June Already Here!

How is June already here? Meeting after meeting, I hear – where is the time going and there is so much happening!
 
That’s definitely true at CNJG, with the 2026 Spring Colloquium: A Conversation for the Social Sector right around the corner on June 17, and very much front of mind for us.
 
The conversation this year - Turning Insight into Impact: Philanthropy and Affordability - is focused on the affordability squeeze, and how the social sector can serve as a catalyst for change and help communities navigate these challenging economic times. Moderated by Monique Curry-Mims, podcaster and principal at Civic Capital, we have an incredible line up of panelists for the featured discussion. I’m looking forward to hearing from Evan Weiss, CEO, New Jersey Economic Development Authority, Samra Haider, President and CEO, Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, Stephanie Hoopes, Director, United for ALICE, and Barbara George Johnson, VP of External Affairs and Urban Policy and Research, John S. Watson Institute of Urban Policy and Research, Kean University. This biennial event is known for its visionary, high-level conversations that bring together thought leaders and practitioners to engage in a dynamic exchange about one of the core issues of our times. This year, affordability takes center stage.
 
Following a networking lunch to collectively reflect on the exchange and visit with exhibitors, two afternoon workshops will dig in deeper to surface how philanthropy and nonprofits can make a difference. Affordability is in the Eye of the Beholder: Kitchen Table Conversations with analysts from New Jersey Policy Perspectives will give us a through line from the “kitchen table” to the state budget. From Stability to Ownership: Building an Aligned Ecosystem for Economic Mobility with the Asset Funders Network will help funders explore how they can align their efforts across the “asset-building lifecycle.”
 
I encourage you to register today, as late registration kicks in on Saturday. You’ll want to be in the room for these critical conversations!
 
Resources to support your learning are always an important aspect of our spring Signature events. As you consider how the social sector can impact the affordability issue, these resources are meant to spur your thinking.
 
Thank you to our sponsors for the Colloquium: Signature Sponsor – PSEG; Champion Sponsor – The Tepper Foundation; Collaborator Sponsor – Sixers Youth Foundation; Connector Sponsors – Community Foundation of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and Wells Fargo; Colleague Sponsor – Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation; and Exhibitor Sponsor – PKF O’Connor Davies. It is only through the generous support of our sponsors that we are able to offer this event. Also, thank you to NJM Insurance Group for their contribution to support this convening. 
 
And if the Colloquium is not enough to demonstrate that “there is so much is happening,” take a look at some highlights from last year at CNJG in the 2025 President’s Report!
 
I can’t wait to see you on June 17!

Best, 

Theresa Jacks, President and CEO
Council of New Jersey Grantmakers