From food pantries and afterschool programs to cultural groups and public health providers, local nonprofits are vital to the well-being of our region and its diverse communities.
But being a nonprofit has never been easy: unpredictable fundraising needs, making payroll when government contract payments are late, and retaining staff while stretching resources are just some of the common challenges. Today, many nonprofits must also contend with a climate of fear, uncertainty, and dramatic threats to funding.
We’ve heard from many in our community who are eager to find meaningful ways to support this sector that brings so much to our region. Here are our top suggestions:
- Stay true to the organizations & causes you care about. Stand with the nonprofits you love and remain constant in your support. This matters more than ever when they may face threats to their funding and operations. Give early and often. Many donors favor end-of-year gifts, but a gift today will help nonprofits plan in uncertain times.
- Give general operating support. Flexible funding is what nonprofits need most—and especially now. It helps them respond rapidly to urgent needs and allocate their resources strategically.
- Give your time and talent. Hold a house party fundraiser for your favorite organization or show up to its event. Offer pro bono services. Join a board or advisory committee. Be an ambassador and connect others with great groups you already support.
- Fund advocacy and organizing. While funding direct services is important, your philanthropy can also support advocacy that will help shift policies and practices to advance systemic change. You can fund groups that advocate on behalf of the nonprofit sector; fight to increase public resources for education, social services, housing, and more; and promote policies that safeguard the rights and well-being of working families, immigrants, women, people of color, LGBTQ+ New Yorkers, and all the communities of our region.
- Invest in nonprofit resilience & infrastructure. If you are passionate about long-term impact, consider directing some of your giving to capacity-building efforts, such as leadership training, strategic legal counsel, or staff support. These investments equip organizations to meet urgent needs, advocate effectively, and continue delivering meaningful impact across our region.
Together, our collective generosity and expertise can secure a healthy, safe, and just region for future generations. The Trust is here for you if you’d like to talk about how we can support your charitable goals during this pivotal time.
For more information, contact our philanthropy expert, Julia Chang at jchang@thenytrust.org or (212) 686-0010 x586.
