Site Search
- resource provided by the Forum Network Knowledgebase.
Search Tip: Search with " " to find exact matches.
Learn how you can register for events online, search the member directory for organizations and colleagues who have the same interests, and update your profile.
CNJG celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2017 marked by extraordinary progress and service to members over this time. As the nexus for the philanthropic community in New Jersey, the Council of New Jersey Grantmakers’ body of work grows more robust every year. This is clearly evident by the exponential growth in programs and services since CNJG was founded in 1987. However, this proliferation in programs and services does not reflect the full realm of CNJG's transformation over twenty years. CNJG has evolved to become a leader in the state, spearheading important and significant initiatives throughout our history.
These programs, services and leadership initiatives elevate, not only our members’ work and practice, but also grantmakers throughout New Jersey, and even beyond. CNJG's success stems from its ability to broker partnerships and alliances to solve problems, leverage shared resources, and forge sustainable solutions to bring about long-term change. During its 20 years, CNJG has grown to become a valuable, highly relevant leadership organization serving a diverse range of funders. View our CNJG Through the Years pictorial. CNJG thanks our members and partners for your ongoing support and leadership that has propelled us through the last 20 years. We look forward to the next twenty!
Newark Philanthropic Liaison
Philanthropy has played a vital role in Newark for decades. In 2007, in collaboration with the Office of the Mayor, CNJG hired the city’s first liaison – modeled after a similar position in the State of Michigan – to harness interest, foster greater effectiveness and attract resources toward policy and programmatic areas that affect Newark’s residents. In the years since, the Council’s Newark Philanthropic Liaison has become a model for the country.
Hurricane Sandy Response
Superstorm Sandy officially came ashore in New Jersey on October 29, 2012 at 8:00 p.m. and its aftermath continues to be felt in communities throughout our state. Not 24 hours after the storm made landfall, CNJG began planning a series of actions to help inform funders what to be prepared for, share information and discuss strategies. CNJG's support of the philanthropic community as it navigates the shifting landscape of disaster recovery, continues.
Facing Our Future
Facing Our Future was a landmark initiative looking at the systemic, long term fiscal challenges facing all levels of government in New Jersey. It grew out of a 2010 briefing CNJG held for members that outlined how a Governor’s budget is annually crafted. CNJG leadership worked with members to convene a group of enthusiastic former government leaders. Their collective experience crossed party lines, and many of them had served multiple New Jersey governors. This Leadership Group included 4 former Attorney Generals, 3, former Commissioners, 2 former State Treasurers, a former Director of the State Senate and a former Chief Justice of the NJ Supreme Court, in addition to leading New Jersey researchers.
Establishing South Jersey’s Community Foundation
The Community Foundation of South Jersey formally launched in 2009 after two years of extensive planning through the efforts of CNJG and a number Council members. CFSJ is dedicated to the southernmost counties of New Jersey - Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Ocean, and Salem. These counties are exceptionally diverse, stretching from rural farm lands to pockets of densely populated and poor urban areas, juxtaposed against wealthy suburban communities. However, they share many of the same social problems – a challenging economy, unengaged youth, access to healthcare, as well as issues related to hunger, unemployment and housing. Realizing the need, Council members through the work of CNJG formed The Community Foundation of South Jersey. CNJG is extremely proud to have played a role in building the foundation to serve South Jersey for generations to come.
Spring Colloquium
Held for the first time in 2008, CNJG's Spring Colloquium focuses on critical trends and issues affecting foundations and the people and communities they serve. Past discussions have featured Governor Tom Kean with US Editor for the Economist Matthew Bishop, writer David Borestein and philosopher Anthony Appiah, and Idealist.org founder Ami Dar with Cindy Rizzo of the Arcus Foundation.
Spring Conference
CNJG's Conference for Grantmakers brings together staff and trustees of all types and sizes of foundations for a day of networking and focused sessions dealing with key aspects of grantmaking, leadership, and management and operations.
There is a plurality of definitions of the term systems change, each contextualized within different cultures and purposes. Doing Good Better embraces systems change as an inter-sector process that addresses complex social problems nonprofits and funders confront with collective action centered on equity, mutual respect, and resilience. Systems change refers to changing the parts and their relationships within a system with the understanding that this change will have ripple effects. As grantmakers, we need to create an environment that enables grantee effectiveness, so they can deliver on their mission. Systems change in philanthropy focuses on structures, policies and processes, resources, values, power, mindsets and, infrastructure that is illustrated in three iterative phases. In time, we hope that the application of this model will result in collective impact and a more resilient social sector for all of New Jersey.
The first phase is structural (operational) change, which involves funders adopting new policies, practices, and resource flows. The second phase is characterized by new relationships and connections that emerge from structural change eschewing old power dynamic practices. Finally, the third phase is transformative change, which occurs when change becomes rooted in organizational culture and mores. We cannot underestimate the length of time and learning at each stage. Achieving transformative change can be a long journey, but it is a learning journey. One grantmaker stated, “One change led to another and another, like dominos. I started to see what people meant by systemic change. New energy and excitement surged among us as hope grew and the cloudy vision of what we wanted became clearer and clearer.”
Although the figure below displays the six developmental stages as linear and distinct, change is unlikely to follow a linear path. Any change in a system will seldom stay fixed at one of these stages but rather will shift back and forth from one stage to another on the path toward the ideal state. We believe just one organization can’t shift the conditions that hold problems in place; we all must share the same perspectives and move the sector together and simultaneously. We call for all of those involved in the sector to work together to build a better and more equitable nonprofit and philanthropy system for all New Jerseyans.
Graphic comes from “The Water of Systems Change” by John Kania, Mark Kramer, and Peter Senge.
Doing Good Better, a partnership of the Council of New Jersey Grantmakers and the New Jersey Center for Nonprofits, is a community of funders and nonprofits taking action against the power imbalances and racial inequities in philanthropy, nonprofits, and government.
You will have an opportunity to learn about the collaborative process that resulted in this first version of the framework. In addition, you will hear from peers and practitioners who contributed to the development of the framework. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the framework's design principles and how they foster equity, transparency, and responsible AI adoption.
Speakers
Jean Westrick, Executive Director, TAG
Gozi Egbuonu, Director of Programs, TAG
Who Should Attend
Grantmaking Executives
Philanthropy Tech Professionals
Program Managers
Technology Leaders
AI for Good Enthusiasts and Advocates
COST: Free for CNJG Members and Non Member Grantmakers
Jean Westrick, Executive Director
Technology Association of Grantmakers
Jean Westrick is the Executive Director of the Technology Association of Grantmakers, a nonprofit organization that cultivates the strategic, equitable, and innovative use of technology in philanthropy. Westrick brings two decades of experience building communities, leveraging technology, and leading innovative and programmatic strategies. Prior to being named Executive Director of TAG, Westrick was the Director of IT Strategy and Communications at The Chicago Community Trust where she led change management efforts for the foundation’s $6M digital transformation initiative. Also, while at The Trust, Westrick directed On the Table, an award-winning engagement model designed to inspire resident action that was replicated in 30 cities nationwide. A longtime advocate for equity in STEM education, expanding technology access and increasing science literacy, Westrick holds a Bachelor of Arts from Michigan State University and a Master of Science from DePaul University.
Gozi Egbuonu, Director of Programs
Technology Association of Grantmakers
Gozi Egbuonu is the Director of Programs at the Technology Association of Grantmakers (TAG), a nonprofit organization with a mission to cultivate the strategic, equitable, and innovative use of technology in philanthropy. Prior to TAG, Gozi was an Impact Officer at Network for Good’s (now Bonterra) capacity-building program called Jumpstart. Through her advocacy for philanthropic investments in the technological capacity of talented nonprofit leaders and organizations throughout the United States, Gozi helped generate more than $500,000 in capacity-building funds to help nonprofits become more sustainable. In addition to helping generate lasting impact for nonprofits, Gozi created meaningful content and events aimed at educating philanthropic communities on the power of trust-based partnerships between grantmakers and nonprofits. Committed to using technology to improve lives and advance social change, Gozi is researching the use of medical technology to improve healthcare delivery while earning her doctorate in behavioral health from Cummings Graduate Institute. She also holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Washington and Lee University, a Master of Arts from Pepperdine Graduate School of Education and Psychology, and a Master of Science from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry.
I can't believe October is already here! We are deep in planning for the CNJG 2024 Annual Meeting & Holiday Gathering, and I'm thrilled to invite you to be a part of this special event!
Mark your calendars for Wednesday, December 11, as we come together at the APA Hotel Woodbridge with over 150 Council members and special guests to celebrate the holiday season, welcome new members, and host a brief business meeting to elect trustees. It's also the perfect time to connect with colleagues and friends, old and new, while participating in a thought-provoking discussion about the ever-important topic of leadership in philanthropy.
This event is the one time each year where New Jersey’s philanthropic community comes together to connect, network, learn, and celebrate our collective work. It's a time to reflect on our impact, recharge with new ideas, and plan for the year ahead. Guided by the CNJG Signature Program Committee’s vision for this event, our focus this year is on leadership: Inspiring Change through Leadership: Maximizing Philanthropic Impact. Our morning workshop will explore the New Jersey Principles for Philanthropy – our equity principles emboldening leadership in action, followed by our keynote presentation featuring Amalia Brindis Delgado, Chief Strategy Officer, Panta Rhea Foundation, focused on transformative leadership transitions. It's a topic that feels more important than ever, and I can't wait for the conversations it will inspire.
The Annual Meeting is truly a highlight of the year. In addition to your participation, I invite you to consider supporting the Annual Meeting of Members through a sponsorship, grant, or contribution. Whether you've sponsored before or are considering it for the first time, this is an incredible opportunity to show your support for CNJG, while also raising visibility for your organization. We offer a variety of sponsorship options to fit any level of interest, and we're happy to tailor a package to meet your needs. Your support would help underwrite this vital event, ensuring it continues to serve as a place where our sector can grow stronger together. It's a valuable opportunity not only to give back to CNJG, but to highlight your commitment to the philanthropic community and its ongoing work in New Jersey.
If you'd like more information regarding sponsorship, please reach out to me via e-mail.
A big thank you to our sponsors to date - we couldn't do this without you! Special thanks to Signature Sponsor – Prudential; Contributing Sponsors – Devils Youth Foundation and Robert Wood Johnson Foundation; Supporting Sponsor – Grunin Foundation; and Colleague Sponsor – Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey.
Thank you for your continued engagement with CNJG. I'm looking forward to hearing from you soon and can't wait to see you at the CNJG Annual Meeting & Holiday Gathering in December. Until then, enjoy the beauty of fall!
Warmly,
Theresa Jacks, President and CEO
Council of New Jersey Grantmakers
Home ownership remains a central pillar to the American dream. For most Americans, home equity encompasses the lion’s share of their wealth. Yet, housing is becoming increasingly inaccessible and out of reach. Median sales prices across the country have outpaced income growth. Demand for housing far outweighs supply. Costs are out of range for many. Contemporary mortgage markets still exclude more than half of Black American households from homeownership. The importance of homeownership in building wealth coupled with the oppressive legacy of racial exclusion point to the need for systemic policy change.
Together, we will:
- Hear market-specific strategies to lower entry barriers and create more equity and affordability through housing policy
- Discuss the role of philanthropy to identify, support, and educate for housing affordability and equity
Speakers:
Christie Stewart, Chief Initiative Officer, Center for Housing Opportunity (CT)
Marcel Negret, Senior Planner, Regional Plan Association
Staci Berger, President and CEO of Housing & Community Development Network of New Jersey
Julian St. Patrick Clayton, Deputy Director of Policy and Research, Center for NYC Neighborhoods
Moderator:
Julian Pierce, Director, Economic Opportunity, Fairfield County’s Community Foundation
Cost: Free for CNJG Members and Non Member Grantmakers
Articles of Interest
Webinar recording
Renter Empowerment and Neighborhood Tools (RENT) for Health Equity
New York Neighbors Coalition
NYC Community Land Initiative and CLT Map
Reimagining Financial Resources for Affordable Housing Development in Fairfield County, CT in 2020
American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Fiscal Recovery Funds
Who Owns Newark? Rutgers-Newark Study Finds Troubling Rise in Corporate Buying of City Homes | Rutgers University-Newark
Connecticut Housing Accessibility and Affordability (urban.org)
Fairfield County Housing Accessibility and Affordability (urban.org)
The Fourth Regional Plan - The Fourth Regional Plan (fourthplan.org)
Housing Segregation is a Choice
Be My Neighbor: Untapped Housing Solutions: ADUs and Conversions
Be My Neighbor in Fairfield County: Untapped Housing Solutions: ADUs and Conversions
Please Log In to view resources from this event.
Reimagining Philanthropy: Data for Social Impact
Held:
Monday, December 7 - 2:00 to 3:30 pm -- Skill-Building Workshop
Tuesday, December 8 - 12:30 to 2:00 pm -- Business Meeting & Keynote Presentation
Thank you to everyone who attended CNJG’s first ever virtual Annual Meeting & Holiday Gathering. This year’s meeting focused on the many ways philanthropy can use data for social impact.
Data science is a powerful tool to address housing and food insecurity, education inequality, health disparities, civic injustice, and other longstanding social issues that continue to intensify during the pandemic. Building data capacity equips local leaders with information to develop and advocate for more effective policies. New evaluation strategies can outperform outdated processes that reinforce inequities and slow progress. Research and technology that fuels innovation in the private sector can help nonprofit and government organizations drive impact in New Jersey communities..
On Day 1, the Annual Meeting Workshop focused on evaluation and learning practices that center equity and social impact. And on Day 2, Keynote panelists shared how data science can help connect people to services, address racial inequity, and create greater impact in our communities during the pandemic and beyond..
Philanthropy can’t go back to “normal,” because normal wasn’t good enough. During this year’s Virtual 2020 Annual Meeting & Holiday Gathering we explored how we can reimagine philanthropy by harnessing the full power of data for social impact.
The Council of New Jersey Grantmakers would like to thank our sponsors for their generous support: Signature Sponsors – Novartis and PSEG; Sustaining Sponsors – Prudential and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey; Collaborating Sponsor – Robert Wood Johnson Foundation; and Performance Sponsor – The Provident Bank Foundation.
Dates & Times
Tuesday, November 9 - 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Wednesday, November 10 - 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday, November 16 - 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.
CEOs, executive directors, CFOs, trustees, investment committee members, and finance managers of foundations and endowed nonprofits gathered together over three afternoons of learning and discussion during CNJG’s 2021 Investment Forum for Foundations and Endowments.
Attendees heard from leading asset managers, financial service institutions, professional advisors and practitioners who shared best practices and valuable insights focused on successful endowment management. Pointed, strategic, and masterful keynote speeches and educational workshop sessions explored a wide range of timely and useful topics, such as impact and ESG investing, gift acceptance policies, alternative investments, governance and due diligence, and so much more.
Sustainable philanthropy thrives on careful and skillful stewardship of the corpus. This signature event grew out of the Council of New Jersey Grantmakers’ Finance and Investment Affinity Group convenings, which have long offered CFO’s, investment committee members, board chairs and others with oversight of their endowment, exposure to a wide range of representatives, as well as thoughtful expertise and perspectives from the investment community.
Access Whova until May 16, 2022!
Registrants can access all three plenary sessions and 11 concurrent sessions on Whova for six months after the event, until May 16, 2022. You can log in with the same email and password you used to access the event. Visit Whova.
For questions, please contact Anna D'Elia, Manager of Programs and Learning.
The Future of Work and the Role of Philanthropy
Dates: Wednesday, May 19 and Thursday, May 20
Time: 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.
One of the most valuable learning and networking events for the social sector in the state, CNJG’s 2021 Virtual Spring Conference considered the role of philanthropy in shaping how, where, and why we work.
The coronavirus pandemic has impacted and propelled the future of work in ways we couldn’t have imagined. But even before the pandemic - the automation of jobs, the gig economy, the ongoing need for reskilling and retraining, changing demographics, green careers, lack of job security and more – has been setting the stage for novel ways of working. The Spring Conference explored this new, accelerated work paradigm, it’s profound impact on New Jersey’s industries, workers and communities, and the implications for grantmakers and their nonprofit partners.
This timely and important event brought together national and local thought leaders, experts and stakeholders to share what the social sector can do to ensure a better future for New Jersey’s workforce. Attendees engaged in candid, visionary conversations around equitable labor standards and professional practices, the changing, post-pandemic workplace, strategies to fill gaps in skills, education, and opportunity, the effects of new federal job policies on workers, and much more.
Thank you for joining the Council of New Jersey Grantmakers for an exploration about what lies ahead as we prepare for and address pressing and unprecedented changes in the world of work.
Only people who registered for the Conference will be able to access WHOVA. For assistance or additional information, please contact Anna D’Elia, Manager of Programs and Learning.
The Office of the Newark Philanthropic Liaison (NPL) —an innovative collaboration between the city of Newark and the Council of New Jersey Grantmakers (CNJG) —is tasked with harnessing interest, fostering greater effectiveness, and attracting resources toward policy and programmatic areas that affect and improve the lives of Newark’s residents. Supported by a dedicated cohort of funders through CNJG, the office is non-partisan and based in the Mayor’s Office in Newark City Hall. The Liaison represents one of the nation's first formal partnerships between a city and the philanthropic community, and has become a national model for public-private alliances. At its core, the role has three main functions:
- Connect – Align citywide initiatives and bring together cross-sector partners for collective action.
- Convene – Foster strong partnerships with regional and national philanthropic leaders and support Newark and New Jersey funder collaboration through funder affinity groups.
- Leverage – Identify and maximize public and private resources for City priorities.
As Newark is at a pivotal time in its growth and development, the Office of Newark Philanthropic Liaison is focused on a number of big issues including equitable economic development in our neighborhoods, educational equity, employment, serving the needs of our immigrant and other vulnerable communities, housing for the homeless, and expanding broadband and health services. Now more than ever, we need collaboration and partnerships. These issues are too big for any one person or entity to solve alone.
The Newark Philanthropic Liaison project is supported by Bank of America, the Burke Foundation, the Community Foundation of New Jersey, the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, Maher Charitable Foundation, the MCJ Amelior Foundation, The Prudential Foundation, Schumann Fund for New Jersey, Turrell Fund, and the Victoria Foundation. While the Nicholson Foundation sunset in late 2021, we acknowledge and thank the foundation for its long-term support of the initiative.
We also acknowledge the City of Newark for its commitment to collaborating with the position and elevating the voice of philanthropy. A special thank you to the Community Foundation of New Jersey, which facilitates and manages grant funds for many of our partnerships.
New Jersey’s philanthropic and nonprofit sectors are in the forefront of helping communities respond and recover from the worst health and economic crisis of our lifetime.
On these pages, CNJG offers resources to help our members get the knowledge and information needed to be the most effective possible grantmakers.
CNJG is helping to track New Jersey philanthropy’s pandemic response through our “Get on the Map” campaign partnership with Candid, which launched a coronavirus map in response to funders’ requests. As you can see, the information collected is not complete, so please help. Visit our Share Your Giving Data webpage for information about how to share your COVID-19 grants data.
Sharing information with other funders is critical to informing philanthropy in the weeks and months ahead. Knowing where money is going, and how — and having the latest information — facilitates thoughtful collaboration and decision-making in times of crisis.
CNJG Response
Communications
CNJG created a Coronavirus Response webpage and listserve for the COVID-19 Response
Email to Members: NJ Philanthropic Response to COVID-19 (March 13)
Email to Members: Working Remotely Ensuring Service to Members (March 17)
CNJG participated in: Creative NJ Statewide Conversations - NJ’s Philanthropic Response (April 8)
CNJG Member Query: COVID-19 Rapid Response Funds
CNJG asked their members to share your grants data to update the coronavirus map and track philanthropy’s response to the coronavirus pandemic.
CNJG Member Query: Grant Approval Templates Related to COVID-19
CNJG signed onto letter calling on philanthropy to act to curb bias attacks as virus spreads.
CNJG created a FAQ page about philanthropy’s COVID response.
NJ COVID-19 Response and Recovery Funds Learning Community
The NJ COVID-19 Response and Recovery Funds Learning Community helps grantmakers involved in special purpose COVID 19 funds get timely updates on what is happening on the ground, share information about what and where services and help are needed most, and explore strategies for the most effective grantmaking investments. Designed around the Center for Disaster Philanthropy's key principles of grantmaking -- resilience, equity, sustainability, and civic participation -- the Learning Community is committed to holding the difficult conversations about how philanthropy can best respond to community needs and help those who need it most.
COVID-19 Funders Briefings
CNJG hosts regular briefings where funders hear from government officials, disaster recovery and health experts, nonprofit leaders, funders, and other stakeholders dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. The briefings provide an opportunity to share how colleagues are changing grantmaking practices for rapid response, learn about new policies and government actions, and connect with local leaders who work with people whose financial, physical, and mental health suffers due to COVID-19. Series I topics included food insecurity, mapping response funding, racial health disparities, federal and state policy, and updates from New Jersey response funds and Rapid Response Surveys, completed in partnership with the Center for Non-Profits in March, April, and July 2020.
Newark COVID-19 Webinars
CNJG’s Newark Philanthropic Liaison, Kevin Callaghan, organized a series of webinars for our Newark Funders Affinity Group and other funders to know the specific challenges of New Jersey’s largest city responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. Guest speakers included, Mayor Ras Baraka, Newark Public Schools Superintendent Roger Leon, consulting firm McKinsey & Co., and Catherine Wilson, CEO of United Way of Greater Newark.
Affinity and Interest Group COVID-19 Webinars
In order to dig deeper into the impact of the pandemic on certain communities and stay connected during this difficult time, CNJG worked with our affinity group chairs and other members to develop programming that supplemented our COVID-19 Funders Briefing Series and Newark COVID-19 Series. These virtual affinity and interest group meetings were designed for colleagues to update each other on coronavirus response efforts, hear about the greatest needs in their funding area, and share what they have learned.
CNJG Member Actions
News articles showing members philanthropic responses to the coronavirus pandemic which include announcements, emails, blogs, grants given and other resources gathered by and for our members.
New Jersey Focused Response Funds
A list of all of the response funds that foundations and philanthropic organizations have set up to help local communities, residents, non-profits, and businesses throughout New Jersey and news of the grants being awarded by each fund.
PSO, State, and Government Resources
Resources gathered from our colleagues at other philanthropy-serving organizations, state associations of nonprofits, and city, state and federal governments.
State and National COVID-19 News Articles
Some of the top COVID-19 news stories, centrally located for easy access.
CNJG provides this information free to the philanthropic community. If you are not a CNJG member, please join so you can take full advantage of the many benefits of membership and help underwrite the cost of services like this.
One year from now the 2020 Census will be in full swing. This nationwide, constitutionally-mandated count, conducted once every ten years, is our opportunity to ensure that New Jersey residents are accurately counted to secure the resources needed to support our communities. Nationally, more than $800 billion in federal funding as well as fair, proportional voting representation are at stake. In New Jersey, allocations from 16 federal programs including Medicaid, education grants, and even highway planning and construction are allotted based on the census count. This totaled over $17 billion in 2015.
But the 2020 Census is facing unprecedented challenges, including years of underfunding, a climate of fear, the challenges of the first “high tech” census, and the potential addition of an untested citizenship question. That means we will all have to work together to overcome these challenges and help achieve a fair and accurate census to ensure that the hardest-to-count communities—like people of color, low-income folks, LGBTQ people, immigrant communities, rural communities, and young children—aren’t missed. Based on the latest census estimates, approximately 22% of New Jersey’s population lives in hard-to-count areas.
CNJG joins the Funders’ Committee for Civic Participation’s Funders Census Initiative, United Philanthropy Forum and philanthropy-serving organizations around the country in asking our members to commit to supporting and encouraging a fair and accurate census.
The Census is one of our nation’s most important and consequential civic obligations. Getting it right and counting everyone ensures people and communities can thrive.
Please feel free to reach out to me or Deputy Director Theresa Jacks for information about the Council’s work on behalf of a full, fair and accurate 2020 Census.
Sincerely,
Maria Vizcarrondo, President and CEO
Council of New Jersey Grantmakers
From Moment to Movement: Upending Traditional Philanthropy
Dates & Time:
Monday, December 13 - 2:00 to 3:30 pm -- Annual Meeting Workshop
Tuesday, December 14 - 12:30 to 2:00 pm -- Business Meeting & Keynote Presentation
The Council of New Jersey Grantmakers thanks everyone who attended our 2021 Virtual Annual Meeting & Holiday Gathering.
The 2021 Annual Meeting, From Moment to Movement: Upending Traditional Philanthropy, tackled how we can implement practices based in trust, confront uneven power structures, and advance equity in the philanthropic sector.
Our Annual Meeting Workshop on December 13 explored how two foundations, The Claneil Foundation and Weingart Foundation, are using general operating support, multi-year funding, and transparent communication and feedback to build strong, effective relationships with nonprofit partners. Afterwards, funders discussed where they want to move the needle in their own organization, and the major barriers to implementing those changes.
On Day 2, we heard an inspiring keynote presentation from Marcus Walton, President and CEO of Grantmakers for Effective Organizations (GEO). Marcus kicked off the keynote by sharing critical insights for building trust within and outside your organization. He then engaged in a candid conversation with CNJG President and CEO Maria Vizcarrondo, and answered questions from attendees, on how to reach communities, rethink traditional grantmaking practices, and advance racial equity within philanthropy and New Jersey.
Philanthropy needs to change to meet this moment. Breaking away from ingrained structures and replacing outdated “best practices” with strategies based in trust and power sharing is a long and challenging road for many grantmaking organizations. There will be growing pains. But, during this year’s Annual Meeting & Holiday Gathering, we heard about effective strategies from courageous leaders that have made these changes possible. Join us in 2022 as we continue to rework, reimagine, and operationalize new practices that better serve our partners and communities.
CNJG members can view recordings from the event and additional resources when logged in.
- 6 Practices of Trust-Based Philanthropy
- Trust-Based Philanthropy Resources
- Grantmakers for Effective Organizations: Systems Grantmaking Resource Guide
- Solving the World’s Biggest Problems: Better Philanthropy Through Systems Change
- Trust-Based Philanthropy News
- The Holy Grail of Funding: Why and how foundations give unrestricted funding
- The Casey Foundation’s Journey to Equitable Grant-making
- Community-Centric Fundraising
- Vu Le, Nonprofitaf.com
- To Support Shifts in Philanthropic Practices, Foundations Must Reimagine Their Internal Structures and Processes
Doing Good Better, a partnership of the Council of New Jersey Grantmakers and the New Jersey Center for Nonprofits, is a community of funders and nonprofits taking action against the power imbalances and racial inequities in philanthropy, nonprofits, and government.
Thank you to all that attended CNJG’s 2023 Annual Meeting & Holiday Gathering - Philanthropic Collaboratives: Driving Impact and Opportunity on December 14.
Both our fireside chat speakers, Nidhi Sahni, Bridgespan, and Lucy Vandenberg, Schumann Fund for New Jersey, and pre-meeting workshop facilitators John Harper, Chirlie Felix, and Waheera Mardah from FSG, helped us to gain a better understanding of the nuance and benefits of collaboration. Please check out the program book, and you’ll find additional information on the Annual Meeting Resources page.
We elected two new Board trustees for their first 3-year term: Jasmyne Beckford, Prudential Foundation, and Paul DiLorenzo, Salem Health and Wellness Foundation, as well as re-electing several trustees for another term. We also said goodbye to 3 trustees rotating off, including 2023 Board Chair, Jeff Vega. Thank you, Jeff, for your leadership and commitment to CNJG. Following the annual meeting of members, the Board elected their officers for 2024: Craig Drinkard, Chair, (Victoria Foundation), Christine Healey, 1st Vice Chair, (The Healey Education Foundation), Justin Kiczek, 2nd Vice Chair, (F. M. Kirby Foundation), Maisha Simmons, Secretary, (Robert Wood Johnson Foundation), and Catherine Wilson, Treasurer, (United Way Greater Newark). Congratulations!
Approved by the Board in October, we were thrilled to introduce CNJG’s first-ever policy agenda to the membership (see pages 9 – 11 of the program book). Among the policy agenda’s priorities are advancing racial equity and justice, a well-resourced nonprofit sector, civic engagement, and a healthy democracy.
Also adopted at the October Board meeting, we shared the New Jersey Principles for Philanthropy, our equity principles, with the membership (see pages 12 – 15 of the program book). CNJG’s last revision of Guiding Beliefs and Principles was in 2007. These revised Principles use a developmental framework and understand that each organization has its own starting point. Next year we’ll create tools and resources to help members on their own equity journeys.
Both of these important items are included as part of our 2023 – 2025 Strategic Plan, unveiled to the membership at last year’s Annual Meeting. CNJG envisions a healthy, thriving, and civically engaged NJ where people of all places, racial identities, socio-economic backgrounds, abilities, and identity expressions are valued for their gifts and talents, and we all can reach our full potential and participate generously in the common good. Our mission supports and elevates New Jersey’s philanthropic community through shared learning, collaborative and trusting relationships, network building, and leadership.
We also highlighted the importance of committee participation to drive CNJG’s work. Committees focus on a specific function or assignment. Our committees include: Audit, Finance, Governance, Member Engagement, Policy, Racial Equity, Signature Programs, and Strategic Plan Implementation. Thank you to everyone that submitted a committee interest card. If you are interested in serving on a committee, please email me. This is an exciting time to be involved in committee work.
The Council of New Jersey Grantmakers thanks our Annual Meeting sponsors for their generous support: Signature Sponsor – Prudential; Collaborating Sponsor – Victoria Foundation; Contributing Sponsors – Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and Devils Youth Foundation; and Supporting Sponsors – Grunin Foundation, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, Princeton Area Community Foundation, and WSFS Bank. Thank you also to NJM Insurance Group for an additional donation to support the event.
The CNJG offices will be closed from December 25, 2023 to January 1, 2024.
2023 was a terrific year – thank you to the Council membership for making it so. Our membership is truly an exceptional group of leaders that care deeply about the communities they serve, and their nonprofit partners. On behalf of the entire CNJG team, we wish you happy holidays and a joyful new year! We look forward to seeing you in 2024!
With Gratitude,
Theresa Jacks, President and CEO
Council of New Jersey Grantmakers
The National Center for Family Philanthropy and Youth Philanthropy Connect, a program of the Frieda C. Fox Foundation, have joined together to bring new resources to the field of philanthropy focused on engaging the next generation of donors and family members. Igniting the Spark: Creating Effective Next Gen Boards is the first publication of its kind, offering a comprehensive overview of the growing practice among family foundations and donor advised fund holders of using next generation boards.
The issue brief outlines creative options for involving children as young as 8 in family philanthropy. It is supplemented by case studies of seven foundations using next gen boards and other approaches for engaging youth in philanthropy. Throughout both resources, the voices of next gen donors describe what works — and what doesn’t — providing family members and staff with guidance and insights new to the field.
New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund
Hosted by: Community Foundation of New Jersey
The New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund (NJPRF) was established to raise funds and organize and coordinate resources to fight the medical, social and economic impact of COVID-19 on New Jersey’s most vulnerable. One hundred percent of donations received online by NJPRF will be used to fight the medical, social, and economic impact of COVID-19, supporting organizations that provide essential services and aiding those on the front line of the pandemic.
4/20 - New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund announces statewide health grants
5/8 - NJPRF gives out 27 additional food security and need-based grants
5/13 - New Jersey Pandemic relief fund announces fourth round of grants
5/15 - Pandemic Relief Fund’s Murphy, Weinreich offer details on its goals — now … and moving forward
7/16 - Pandemic Relief Fund wraps up phase 1, having raised $37M and provided $18M in immediate relief
7/30 - Pandemic Relief Fund Provides $4.5 Million in Cash Assistance
9/11 - NJPRF Matches Grants to Newark and Camden Teachers
11/20 - New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund gives $2.6 Million to help close digital divide
12/2 - New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund gives $4.5 Million to organizations helping minority and women owned businesses
12/16 - New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund received $20 Million from Mackenzie Scott
1/6 - New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund issues 2020 Report
2/2 - N.J. Pandemic Relief Fund to provide $2.5 million in grants to address mental health issues
South Jersey COVID-19 Response Fund
Hosted by: Community Foundation of South Jersey
The South Jersey COVID-19 Response Fund is an opportunity for individuals and organizations to pool resources to address both the short and long-term impact of COVID-19 in local towns, counties, and the South Jersey region as a whole.
6/4 - South Jersey COVID-19 Response Fund Announces Second Round of Grants
7/20 - South Jersey COVID-19 Response Fund Announces Third Round of Grants
Restaurant Rescue Fund
Hosted by: Heart to Harvest Foundation (NY)
The Restaurant Rescue Fund will establish a grant program for restaurateurs in the New York Metro area and New Jersey. The goal is to help owners reopen their restaurants and the small farmers who supply them. Ongoing assistance will be available to grant recipients, to include assistance with landlords, vendor payments, resources that can help with HR and more.
Hoboken Relief Fund
Hosted by: Hoboken Rotary Club Foundation
The Hoboken Relief Fund will solicit donations and provide grants to local businesses and Hoboken residents impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Hoboken Relief Fund will be Hoboken’s authorized vehicle for COVID-19 relief, and act in ways as an umbrella for other, ongoing, complementary efforts to address various pressing needs in our community related to COVID-19, such as food insecurity.
5/11 - Virtual fundraising event headlined by Buddy Valastro and local Hoboken artists streamed in May
8/25 - Hoboken Relief Fund issues grants to local businesses
COVID-19 Emergency Financial Assistance Fund
Hosted by: Interfaith Neighbors
Funded by the generosity of several local foundations including the Jules L. Plangere, Jr. Family Foundation, the Stone Foundation of New Jersey and the Jay & Linda Grunin Foundation, as well as many individual donors; the COVID-19 Emergency Financial Assistance Fund is providing financial assistance to individuals and families in Monmouth County that have experienced financial distress as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Jersey City COVID-19 Community Relief Fund
Hosted by: Jersey City Economic Development Corp
The Jersey City COVID-19 Community Relief Fund will provide resources and support to Jersey City’s most vulnerable residents. It will help minimize hardships for needy families and seniors by improving access to food and other necessities. The Fund will also invest in the local Jersey City economy by helping small businesses and nonprofits - the backbone of Jersey City’s neighborhoods - get back on their feet.
COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund
Hosted by: Jewish Federation of Southern Jersey
The COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund will provide direct support to individuals and families by providing essential resources for those in crisis due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Montclair Foundation Emergency Fund
Hosted by: Montclair Foundation
The Montclair Foundation Emergency Fund was created to support key local outreach organizations with emergency grants so these community partners can receive immediate financial help in this difficult time.
5/5 - Montclair Foundation Awards $15,000 From COVID-19 Emergency Grant Fund
5/13 - Montclair Foundation Funnels $65K To Coronavirus Relief
New Jersey 30 Day Fund
Hosted by: New Jersey 30 Day Fund
The New Jersey 30 Day Fund provides forgivable loans for New Jersey-based small businesses. The forgivable loan is intended to provide immediate financial assistance (within maximum three days) to meet payroll, preserve healthcare coverage for employees and save jobs while they await recently approved federal funding and reopening.
7/10 - 30 Day Fund Announces 100 Small Business Loans
Garden State Relief Fund
Hosted by: New Jersey Community Capital
The Garden State Relief Fund ensures that small businesses and non-profits are provided with quick yet equitable and inclusive opportunities for relief, stability, and growth through low interest loans. The fund provides this financial support for those that often lack access to conventional capital and have been disproportionally affected by this evolving public health crisis.
NNJCF COVID-19 Rapid Response Fund
Hosted by: Northern New Jersey Community Foundation
The NNJCF COVID-19 Rapid Response Fund provides immediate resources to vetted small nonprofit organizations in Bergen County, New Jersey with limited budgets serving vulnerable populations in this area. The fund will also support nonprofit arts organizations and those providing arts programs and services in the county to build community engagement in a time of isolation.
4/30 - Northern New Jersey Community Foundation's COVID-19 Rapid Respond Fund Raises Nearly $240,000
5/22 - NNJCF awards $240K worth of grants for COVID-19 response
9/29 - Northern NJ Community Foundation's COVID-19 Rapid Response Fund Awards Over $300,000 to Nonprofits in Region
PHL COVID-19 Fund
Hosted by: Philadelphia Foundation & United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern NJ
The PHL COVID-19 Fund rapidly and equitably deploys solutions and resources to help nonprofit community navigate near-and longer-term challenges from COVID-19 and ensure that critical resources remain available for those in their community who need it most. This fund supports nonprofits in the Greater Philadelphia Area—five Pennsylvania counties (Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia) and five Southern New Jersey counties (Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, and Cumberland).
4/16 - PHL COVID-19 Fund grants $2.5 million to Nonprofits
4/23 - PHL COVID-19 Fund Provides Rapid Response to Community: $7.3M Distributed to Nearly 200 Nonprofits in Three Weeks
4/24 - PHL COVID-19 Fund, ‘A Godsend’ For Nonprofit Organizations, Distributes 3rd Round Of Grants
5/14 - PHL COVID-19 Fund Continues to Meet Deep Community Needs in Fifth Round of Funding to Nonprofits
6/25 - PHL COVID-19 Fund Deploys Funds to Aid Pandemic Recovery Efforts
7/1 - PHL COVID-19 Fund Awards $4 Million for Arts in Philadelphia Region
9/25 - PHL COVID-19 Fund Awards $400,000 to Philadelphia-area nonprofits
COVID-19 Relief & Recovery Fund
Hosted by: Princeton Area Community Foundation
The foundation assembled a coalition of funders to create the COVID-19 Relief & Recovery Fund to help support nonprofits working with the most vulnerable residents in Mercer County and the surrounding region.
5/29 - COVID-19 Grants Total Over $900,000
New Jersey Arts and Culture Recovery Fund
Hosted by: Princeton Area Community Foundation
A coalition of funders has established the New Jersey Arts and Culture Recovery Fund (NJACRF) to help ensure the survival of the state’s cultural sector that has faced economic devastation from the COVID-19 pandemic. NJACRF will provide grants to the cultural community to offset expenses incurred due to pandemic cancelations, reopening adaptations, and support for artists and sector professionals.
8/20 - NJACRF announces launch of fund
9/3 - WPIX-TV Channel 11 profiles the NJ Arts & Culture Fund by interviewing Jeremy Grunin of the Grunin Foundation and SHarnita Johnson from the Dodge Foundation
9/7 - The Mellon Foundation and NJ’s Own Colberts and Stewarts Help Grow the New Jersey Arts and Culture Recovery Fund
Coronavirus Emergency Relief Fund
Hosted by: Princeton Children’s Fund
The Coronavirus Emergency Relief Fund benefits economically-disadvantaged Princeton families impacted by work stoppage during the outbreak. The fund is supported in part with a grant from the COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Fund of the Princeton Area Community Foundation.
Sustain Summit Fund
Hosted by: The Summit Foundation and Summit Downtown
The Sustain Summit Fund will provide grants to support small businesses that operate in the City of Summit and are experiencing economic hardship as a result of recent closings and restrictions from COVID-19. The first $50,000 in donations will be matched on a 1:1 basis by The Summit Foundation.
5/7 - 'Sustain Summit' Initiative Awards $270K Among 117 Hilltop City Businesses
5/21 - 'Jumpstart Summit' Program formed to Further Assist Summit Businesses' Reopening and Recovery
UWCJ COVID-19 Recover Fund
Hosted by: United Way of Central Jersey
The UWCJ COVID-19 Recover Fund will provide assistance with crucial expenses including rent, utilities, prescription medication/medical supplies, child care and food, identifying clients who are most in need of temporary assistance utilizing referrals from their non-profit community partners.
Salem County Does More: Covid-19 Rapid Response Fund
Hosted by: United Way of Delaware
The Salem County Does More COVID-19 Rapid Response Fund will assist in providing food, shelter, utilities, rent assistance, and other critical services for Salem County residents struggling in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis.
COVID-19 Compassion Fund
Hosted by: United Way of Greater Mercer County
The COVID-19 Compassion Fund supports struggling families in Mercer County financially impacted by the health crisis. Donations will support relief programs, like food pantries and other services to help with basic needs. They continue to work with their partners to identify resource and service gaps and plan for long-term recovery.
Community COVID-19 Fund
Hosted by: United Way of Greater Newark
The Community COVID-19 Fund supports the community and their non-profit partners during the COVID-19 crisis. This is a regional fund serving their 13-municipality footprint including Newark, Irvington, East Orange, West Orange, South Orange, Orange, Belleville, Nutley, Maplewood, Kearny, Harrison, East Newark and North Arlington.
4/17 - United Way of Greater Newark Raises More Than $4M in Donations for Community COVID-19 Fund
4/24 - Mayor Baraka Announces First Round of Newark Grant Awards
UWGUC COVID19 Emergency Fund
Hosted by: United Way of Greater Union County
The UWGUC COVID19 Emergency Fund assists individuals financially impacted due to loss of wages or who incurred debt as a result of COVID19 in the areas of Union County, South Plainfield, and North Plainfield.
Community Response & Recovery Fund
Hosted by: United Way of Gloucester County
The Community Response & Recovery Fund addresses the critical needs of the Gloucester County community through partnership with local non-profit providers. The funds will only be utilized to assist individuals in Gloucester County, New Jersey.
UWMOC COVID-19 Recovery Fund
Hosted by: United Way of Monmouth and Ocean Counties
The UWMOC COVID-19 Recovery Fund addresses the unmet needs of those economically impacted by this crisis in the long-term. This fund will help ensure resources are available today, and in the months and years ahead, to assist residents during the recovery process--primarily through our Financial Success Center (FSC) Network.
9/11 - United Way of Monmouth & Ocean Counties Awards $70,000 in Pandemic Relief Funds
ALICE Recovery Fund
Hosted by: United Way of Northern New Jersey & United Way of Hunterdon County
The ALICE Recovery Fund (#ALICErecovery) is a crisis recovery fund that will address emerging needs of ALICE® (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households and those in poverty in response to the spread of COVID-19. The state of emergency created by the spread of the coronavirus is exposing critical shortcomings in our economy, health care system, and public education. No one is immune to its direct or indirect effects, but ALICE families are particularly vulnerable to hardship from both illness and economic disruption.
COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Fund for Passaic County
Hosted by: United Way of Passaic County
The COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Fund for Passaic County addresses immediate and long-term needs of residents and non-profits in Passaic County. Immediate needs to be addressed include food, education and support for critical non-profits. Longer term, the fund will make grants to nonprofits to ensure their continued viability in Passaic County and address unmet needs of residents in the aftermath of COVID-19.
We Love Local Fund
Hosted by: Westfield United Fund
The Westfield United Fund is dedicated to helping independently owned local businesses in Westfield during this crisis.
5/10 - Westfield couple raise over $7000 in pallet painting fundraiser for fund
CNJG provides this information free to the philanthropic community. If you are not a CNJG member, please join so you can take full advantage of the many benefits of membership and help underwrite the cost of services like this.
This includes insights and tips related to board governance, legal compliance, grantee communications, fiscal responsibility, public disclosure, and many other key areas of foundation governance and operations. It is intended to serve as a practical resource to assist foundations in their grantmaking.
New Jersey’s largest philanthropic association has named longtime social sector leader Maria Vizcarrondo as its president.
“Maria has been a trailblazer throughout her career,” said Council of New Jersey Grantmakers Board Chair William V. Engel. “We turn to her to help the state’s diverse and dedicated philanthropies to be even more effective in their quest to make this a better place.”
The Council of New Jersey Grantmakers is a nonprofit organization of over 130 members representing the philanthropic community in the state. Members include family, private, community, independent and corporate foundations, and corporate giving programs.
The Council exists to strengthen and promote effective philanthropy throughout New Jersey. CNJG’s programs and resources increase the impact of organized philanthropy’s support for adequate health care, quality education, a cleaner environment, community development, historical preservation, disaster response and relief, research, recreation, culture, and other areas crucial to the fabric of New Jersey's communities.
“I am very excited about joining the Council of New Jersey Grantmakers as its CEO and working with dynamic individuals — many of whom I have known and respected throughout my nonprofit career,” Ms. Vizcarrondo said. “Most importantly, I look forward to forging partnerships that will advance the Council’s social impact as a sector leader in New Jersey communities, the region, and nation.”
Ms. Vizcarrondo, who spent most of her career in northern New Jersey, comes to the Council from Cabrini University in Philadelphia, where she most recently was Director of Community Development and External Relations. She was inaugural Executive Director of the school’s Nerney Leadership Institute, launched in 2013.
Ms. Vizcarrondo brings more than 25 years of experience transforming service organizations and has served her communities as both an appointed and elected official.
In 2006, when he was first elected Mayor of Newark Cory Booker tapped Ms. Vizcarrondo to head Newark’s Health and Human Service Department, the largest of its kind in New Jersey. One of her first actions in that role was to develop a Children’s Bill of Rights to benchmark improvements in the lives of children and families throughout the city. Her accomplishments included securing state funding to establish Family Success Centers to provide neighborhood- based services, and launching a major citywide campaign to raise the immunization rates of Newark’s children.
Prior to her mayoral appointment, Ms. Vizcarrondo served as the first woman president and CEO of United Way of Essex and West Hudson. Her pioneer work in re-engineering the organization’s mission into community building was documented in the United Way Transformation Diaries. In the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, Ms. Vizcarrondo led the New Jersey United Ways in a statewide coordination of services for affected families and managed the distribution of corporate funding for these efforts.
She was elected Essex County Surrogate in 1993 and served four years of a five-year term before leaving to join United Way.
Ms. Vizcarrondo has been listed among the “100 Most Influential People in New Jersey” and was a founding member of the New Jersey Institute for Social Justice.
###
Share your giving data and Get on the Map!
Your data will power valuable resources for your organization and our region including access to the CNJG Foundation Funding Map and COVID-19 Funding Map on the powerful interactive searchable mapping platform, engineered by Candid.
How to share your data
Export your grants data from your software system.
Most grants management software products have documented how to export the information.
If you don’t see your software provider on that list, download their eReporting template, an Excel spreadsheet, which you can use to complete the information they need.
Submit your data to Candid by emailing the completed template with your data in it to [email protected] and cc Craig Weinrich.
You can also follow the detailed instructions on this page.
Candid will make every effort to post your data to the map within 5 business days.
Get the answers to your Frequently Asked Questions including:
What information do I need to provide?
Why is it important to provide a grant description?
How is my grants data coded by Candid?
How frequently should I share my grants data?
How quickly will my information appear on my complimentary map?
Can I embed my complimentary map on my website?
What should I do if corrections need to be made to my data?
How will my grant information be used and shared?
How do I responsibly share sensitive grants data?