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In the December issue of Governing magazine, a national trade publication, a featured article “But what did Cory Booker actually accomplish in Newark?” cites the Council of New Jersey Grantmakers and Jeremy Johnson, the Newark Philanthropic Liaison, in connection with the public-private partnership to establish the Newark Office of Reentry. Among the highlights, the article reports ‘Booker’s strategy for seeking help took many forms. It wasn’t just about selling the city to businesses. It also meant leveraging financial support from the philanthropic sector. To do so, the city hired a philanthropy liaison, Jeremy Johnson, whose position is paid for by an outside funder, the Council of New Jersey Grantmakers.
Newark is one of the only places in the country to designate someone on staff with the explicit role of engaging foundations for the funding of public projects. “You really need the leader of your city to believe that philanthropy can help and can work in tandem with government,” Johnson says.’ Newark Funders continue to be committed these goals, meeting with Newark mayoral candidates in December to discuss their ongoing efforts and the role of the Newark Philanthropic Liaison.
The New Jersey State Council on the Arts held a public meeting on December 13th, during which 22 New Jersey organizations received grants through the Council’s new Creative Aging Initiative grant program. Senior centers, libraries, and arts organizations will provide customized arts experiences for people aged 55 and older, helping to enhance overall wellness, build community, and diminish issues of isolation.
With a focus on lifelong learning in the arts, the Creative Aging Initiative grants will provide $10,000 to a variety of New Jersey nonprofits engaging in creative aging work. Each of this year’s grant recipients will provide two (2) eight-day residencies for New Jersey seniors – at no cost to the participants. This new program was built upon the success of a Creative Aging pilot project the Council concluded earlier this year.
Speaking on the importance of this new grant program, the Council’s Program Officer for Arts Education & Lifelong Learning, Samantha Clarke, said: “Arts education and lifelong learning have been longstanding priorities at the State Arts Council. We look forward to providing new opportunities to reach older adults through the Creative Aging Initiative grant, and we’re especially excited to be working with both arts organizations and community-based organizations in this important work.”
With a resounding endorsement, The Westfield Foundation recently voted in three new board members: Toni Janota, Michael Moye and Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift, all of Westfield. At the same time, the organization recognized the service of outgoing members: Tim Boyle, Stan Gersch and Rich Elbert.
“We express our deepest appreciation for the invaluable contributions of Tim Stan and Rich and their unwavering commitment during their tenure!" said outgoing president Larry Darrow.
Our new board members had the privilege of witnessing our Q2 grants meeting in early May where we funded over $100,000 to community programs. Some notable grants this quarter: providing a new mode of transportation for the Westfield Community Center, renovation funds for The Our House Foundation’s New Providence Day Program site, and continued support for the Presbyterian Church of Westfield’s mission to supplement local in-need families with nutrient-dense food.
The New Jersey State Council on the Arts held a public meeting on December 19, 2023, during which 30 New Jersey organizations received grants through the Council's Creative Aging Initiative grant program. This investment is the key component of the Council's focus on lifelong learning, providing $10,000 grants to arts organizations, libraries, veterans homes, and senior and community centers to cover costs for artist-led residencies for New Jersey adults aged 55 and over.
Speaking on the importance of this program, Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way said, “Abundant evidence shows that artmaking and arts participation improves a number of health and well-being factors as we age. I’m honored to work closely with the Council to help ensure New Jerseyans of all ages have opportunities to have a better, overall quality of life.”
Reflecting on the impact of the grant, Council Chair Elizabeth Mattson said, “Supporting quality arts experiences for people of all ages has long been a priority for the Council. I was fortunate to see firsthand the impact of this program earlier this year during a visit to a Creative Aging Initiative session at an adult day center. Hearing the participants speak to the importance and value of being able to express themselves and share their life experiences in new and engaging ways is a powerful reminder of why the Council invests in this work.”
Advancing its ongoing commitment to ensuring a stable and healthy cultural industry, the New Jersey Cultural Trust Board approved a total of $798,395 in grants supporting capital projects at 21 nonprofit cultural organizations during an open public meeting held virtually Dec. 15. The nearly $800,000 in awards represents the largest total dollar amount the board has approved in grant awards in a single fiscal year since 2011.
With the FY2024 grant awards, the Cultural Trust has now awarded over $10.4 million in funding for historic preservation and financial stabilization projects across New Jersey to date.
“These grants are investments in the sustainability and longevity of sites significant to our state’s rich and diverse history,” Lt. Gov. Tahesha Way, who oversees the Cultural Trust in her capacity as secretary of state, said. “New Jersey’s historic places are essential to our state’s identity and culture, and the Cultural Trust’s Capital Historic Preservation program helps safeguard them for future generations.”
The New Jersey State Council on the Arts held its first public meeting of 2024 on February 20th, where just over $1.7 million was awarded to 161 New Jersey artists through the Council's Individual Artist Fellowship program. In 2022, the Council voted to authorize an unprecedented investment of $2 million in the Fellowship program. Through this continued commitment of funding, this year's Fellowship cohort is the largest one the Council has added to its distinguished list of Fellows in over 30 years.
The Fellowships are competitive awards to New Jersey artists in 12 rotating disciplines granted solely on independent peer panel assessment of work samples. The anonymous process is focused on artistic quality, and awards may be used to help artists produce new work and advance their careers. New Jersey artists applied for awards this year in the categories of digital/electronic, film/video, interdisciplinary, painting, printmaking/drawing/book arts, and prose. This program is carried out in partnership with Mid Atlantic Arts.
Membership in the Council of New Jersey Grantmakers offers foundation leaders and grantmakers the opportunity to deepen their experience with the organization by serving on a Board committee. Committee members lead, recommend, and develop policies that help shape our organization. The commitment level for each committee varies and includes an expectation that members will participate in regularly scheduled meetings either in person or via Zoom, and other planning calls as needed, as well as be willing to participate in independent projects as they arise. Members usually join those committees best suited to their professional strengths. Individual members of the CNJG staff team are assigned to each committee.
Audit Committee
The Audit Committee advises the Board of Trustees in overseeing the selection and performance of the Council’s independent auditors, conducting periodic RFPs for auditor services, the quality and integrity of the Council’s financial reporting, its fiscal controls and tax and regulatory compliance, and compliance with legal and accepted standards. An audit or finance background/experience is desirable for some of the members of this Committee.
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee advises the Board of Trustees with all financial policies and strategies, including but not limited to: consultation and review of the annual budget(s), reviewing and monitoring financial reporting, approving and monitoring investments, and developing and approving significant financial policies. A background in finance and financial operations is desirable for some of the members of this group.
Governance Committee
The Governance Committee acts as a nominating committee for vacant board seats and board officers, develops a board slate each year, recommends by-law changes, develops board membership criteria on an annual basis, recommends and develops best practices and expectations for trustees and the board chair, and undertakes any other board governance-related issues.
Member Engagement Committee
The Member Engagement Committee works with the staff to recruit, retain and engage members. Committee members assist in identifying new prospects, setting up and participating in introductory meetings, and keeping prospective members informed of upcoming CNJG programs. It also collaborates with staff members to develop the structure and strategy of membership recruitment and retention activities, as well as recommending changes and/or updates to criteria for membership in CNJG to the Board.
Policy Committee
The Policy Committee advises the Board and Council on public policy matters as appropriate, develops recommendations on specific legislation or proposed regulatory activity, implements the Council’s policy agenda, engages in government relations activities, and actively collaborates with partners to move forward the CNJG’s policy agenda and favorable legislation and regulations to support the philanthropic and nonprofit sectors.
Racial Equity Committee
The Racial Equity Committee was first formed as a taskforce in 2020 as a reaction to systemic and structural racism embedded within the United States, and CNJG’s commitment to raising awareness and instigating change in New Jersey’s philanthropic community. In June 2023 the taskforce was designated a committee of the Board by the Board, and is committed to infusing racial equity throughout CNJG’s programming and structures. In 2024 and 2025, the committee will focus efforts on creating tools and resources to move forward the New Jersey Principles for Philanthropy, CNJG’s equity principles.
Signature Programs Committee
The Signature Programs Committee helps plan and recommend topics, speakers, etc. for CNJG's Signature events including the Annual Meeting & Holiday Gathering, and Spring Colloquium or Spring Conference. When called upon, its members may assist with other (non-affinity group) meetings or events throughout the year.
The New Jersey State Council on the Arts yesterday awarded more than $30 million in grants to support approximately 900 arts organizations, projects, and artists throughout the state. The grants were approved at the Council's 58th Annual Meeting in Trenton, which featured a special musical performance by Hector Morales, a 2024 Arts Council Heritage Fellow.
State funding for the Arts Council comes from the revenue generated through the State’s Hotel/Motel Occupancy Fee, and supports arts activity in all 21 counties. From the smallest neighborhoods to the largest cities, artists and arts organizations strengthen communities and offer solutions for complex issues we all care about – quality education, health and wellness, thriving economies, cross-cultural understanding, and more.
“The investment made in our state’s artists and organizations has a direct, positive impact on New Jersey residents, families, businesses, and communities,” said Acting Governor Tahesha Way, who oversees the Council in her role as Secretary of State. “It’s an honor to work closely with the Council to help our state’s creative industries thrive, and to ensure New Jersey’s diverse constituencies can access the many benefits of the arts.”
I hope you had a rejuvenating and wonderful summer and found some moments to relax and hopefully take a vacation.
As we close out the summer and look forward to autumn, I would like to share an opportunity with you. If you are interested in serving on the CNJG Board of Trustees, or know someone who would make a good trustee, we encourage you to complete the application form and send it, along with a brief biography by Thursday, September 12, 2024. You can read the full “call for trustee nominations” letter from Governance Committee co-chairs Justin Kiczek and Kate Barrett for more details. If you have any questions, please reach out to our Office Manager, Dana Schwartz.
The Board will present a slate of candidates to CNJG members at our Annual Meeting. Please mark your calendar for the CNJG Annual Meeting & Holiday Gathering on Wednesday, December 11, at the APA Hotel Woodbridge.
As we transition from summer, we already have a jam-packed fall with a range of programs to enhance your learning and connections! Upcoming affinity and interest group programs include the Monmouth & Ocean County Funders Roundtable on September 11; Health and Aging Funders Affinity Group: Reconnecting on September 18; Newark Funder Affinity Group: Building the Capacity of Newark’s Nonprofit Sector on September 19; and the Culture Funders Affinity Group: ArtsPay Equity on September 26. The funders briefing, New Jersey’s Latest Affordable Housing Reforms: Implications for Philanthropy on September 12 will outline the significant reforms to the ways that NJ enforces municipal affordable housing obligations that Governor Murphy signed into law in March 2024. Don’t miss First Fridays for Philanthropy September 6 and family philanthropy webinar Effective Communication and Building Consensus through Change on September 9 &10 – both programs are part of two ongoing monthly series. You’ll also want to register for part 1 of the 2024 Disability & Philanthropy Webinar Series: Disability and the Care Economy on September 19.
And that’s just September! Please take some time to visit all our upcoming programs. I look forward to reconnecting with you this fall and seeing you at the Annual Meeting & Holiday Gathering, December 11. Registration will be opening soon.
Sincerely,
Theresa Jacks, President and CEO
Council of New Jersey Grantmakers
A new year always feels like a fresh start—a chance to reflect on where we’ve been and chart a course for where we’re headed. As we step into 2025, I want to take a moment to thank you for the incredible work you do every day to strengthen New Jersey’s communities. Your dedication and passion are what make our state—and our sector—thrive.
This January not only brings in a new presidential administration but also the 119th United States Congress. These transitions remind us of the vital role we play as advocates for the philanthropic and nonprofit sectors, and civil society overall. Decisions made in Washington over the coming months and years will directly impact philanthropy’s ability to foster equity, champion the vital role nonprofits play in our communities, create opportunities, and address systemic challenges.
Foundations on the Hill (FOTH) is just around the corner and will take place in Washington, D.C. from February 23 - 26. Presented and hosted by United Philanthropy Forum and the Council on Foundations, in partnership with Independent Sector, FOTH brings foundation leaders to Washington for meetings with Congress about key issues of importance to foundations and philanthropy. These meetings also strengthen relationships between funders and our elected representatives. CNJG will join colleague PSOs and foundations from across the country to present a strong, collective voice on Capitol Hill. If you are interested in attending or would like to learn more, please contact me.
As we look ahead to 2025, building strong relationships with legislators through efforts like FOTH, advancing our policy agenda, and continuing our ongoing advocacy work will be critical. The CNJG programs below provide key opportunities for nonprofits and philanthropy to come together, strengthen our collective voice, and focus on shaping impactful public policy.
Save the Dates: 2025 Programs on Public Policy and Advocacy
Policy World Wednesdays
Starting January 8, 2025, and recurring every second Wednesday of the month
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM (Monthly via Zoom)
FREE monthly sessions diving into key policy issues, advocacy opportunities, and the latest developments affecting nonprofits and philanthropy.
Registration is recommended but not required.
2025 Conference for the Social Sector
June 18, 2025
Focus: Civic Engagement
Join nonprofit and philanthropic leaders to explore strategies to strengthen civic engagement. Registration will open in early spring.
2025 Summer Joint Policy Forum
August 5, 2025
A dynamic convening of nonprofit and philanthropic leaders to address emerging policy issues, voter engagement, and collective advocacy for the sector. Registration will open in late spring.
Save these dates on your calendar and stay tuned for more details—we hope to see you there!
It’s important that philanthropy engages in and supports advocacy. Philanthropy continues to be a cornerstone of civil society, where vision and resources come together to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. From racial equity and climate resilience to education and public health, CNJG remains committed to supporting our members in creating lasting and meaningful change.
It was wonderful seeing so many members at the 2024 Annual Meeting & Holiday Gathering on December 11. 2024 was truly an extraordinary year. I’ve no doubt 2025 will be extraordinary as well. Thank you for all you do, and here’s to a productive and impactful year ahead.
Warmly,
Theresa Jacks, President and CEO
Council of New Jersey Grantmakers
The New Jersey Cultural Trust Board approved a total of $1,040,935 in grants to 29 nonprofit arts organizations in 14 counties during an open public meeting held virtually on Jan. 15. With the Fiscal Year 2025 grant awards, the Cultural Trust has awarded over $11.4 million in funding for financial stabilization and historic preservation projects across New Jersey since Fiscal Year 2004.
The IFS Arts grants were recommended to the Cultural Trust by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts. The more than $1 million in awards represents the largest total dollar amount the Board has approved in grant awards in a single fiscal year in the Trust’s history.
“These grants are a historic investment in New Jersey’s cultural community that will resonate for years to come,” Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way said. “The Cultural Trust’s unique grant programs support projects that strengthen the foundations of our state’s cultural organizations — organizations that in turn anchor local economies, improve the health and vitality of our communities, and contribute immeasurably to New Jerseyans’ wellbeing and quality of life.”
Part I: Supporting the social and emotional health of our communities
Join us as we begin a discussion on the trip back from COVID-19, and how we help to re-engage our teachers, students, and families after a two-year disruption. The first meeting will continue our exploration of the social and emotional toll of the pandemic and associated school closings, and ways that we might collaborate as a funder group on seeding solutions.
Panelists:
Jill Summers-Phillips, Principal at John F. Kennedy School
Positive Gunter - Parent
Yolanda Greene, Training Manager, Abbott Leadership Institute
Panel Facilitators:
Elizabeth Warner, President, SEL4NJ
Lauren Meehan, Facilitator – Director, Arts Ed Newark
Cost: Free for CNJG Members; $50 for Non Member Grantmakers.
Webinar Video
At its annual awards meeting, the Big Give, on June 11, 2025, Impact100 Garden State announced four recipients of $100,000 grants and three recipients of $10,000 Merit Awards at its annual Big Give at the Birchwood Manor in Whippany. The grants were awarded based on a vote by Impact100 Garden State members.
The all-women, all-volunteer Impact100 Garden State organization pools member contributions to make high-impact grants. The group has donated more than $4 million to area nonprofits since it began grant-giving in 2013. This year a record membership of 426 women allowed Impact100 Garden State to give four $100,000 grants for the second year in a row.
“We celebrate each of the seven finalists who received grants this year,” says Impact100 Garden State President Celeste Campos of Warren.
The most constant factor in the world today – is change. Sometimes it seems like no matter how well prepared we think we are, unexpected factors keep shifting the road to success, causing roadblocks to constantly pop up to challenge us. And, with the onslaught of what seems like a “natural disaster a week” as well as other emergencies, how does corporate philanthropy respond in a meaningful and timely manner? This session will explore the tools needed to be successful in addressing the needs of our communities as we navigate the changing world. We invite you to join our next virtual meeting of the NJ Corporate Philanthropy Network where Chicago’s Lisa Dietlin, President and CEO of the Institute of Transformational Philanthropy, will provide us with practical tips on how to successfully handle unexpected challenges that seem to face us more regularly in today’s environment.
Cost: Free for CNJG Members; $75 for Non Member Grantmakers
This program is only open to staff and trustees from grantmaking organizations.
A collection of the President's letters to CNJG Members from the monthly newsletter.
- New Jersey Philanthropy Hub (10/1/2025)
- Call for CNJG Board Nominations (9/5/2025)
- Summer Reading List (8/7/2025)
- Summer Happenings (7/8/2025)
- Spring Conference News (6/4/2025)
- Spring Conference Update (5/8/2025)
- Spring Conference Registration Open (4/2/2025)
- March Updates (3/7/2025)
- Federal Policy Changes (2/7/2025)
- Happy New Year! (1/9/2025)
- Reflect on the Impact We've Made and the Exciting Possibilities Ahead (12/5/2024)
- As We Look to 2025 (11/8/2024)
- CNJG Annual Meeting & Holiday Gathering (10/8/2024)
- Programs Update (9/5/2024)
- Summer Reads (8/7/2024)
- Update on CNJG Programs (7/8/2024)
- Upcoming Colloquium (6/5/2024)
- AI is Changing our World (5/10/2024)
- 2024 Spring Colloquium (4/5/2024)
- Foundations on the Hill 2024 (3/8/2024)
- Sad News (2/8/2024)
- Welcome to the New Year! (1/8/2024)
- Mad Dash to the End of the Year (12/8/2023)
- Collaboration (11/6/2023)
- CNJG Annual Meeting & Holiday Gathering (10/5/2023)
- Welcome Back From the Summer (9/5/2023)
- 2023 New Jersey Philanthropy Benefits & Salary Summary Report (7/5/2023)