Connections - No. 2, 2025

News from The Community Foundation

September 02, 2025

Download a PDF of the full newsletter HERE or scroll for links to individual stories.

Four people sit on a stage panel discussing under a large screen that reads MEET THE MOMENT: OPPORTUNITY + EQUITY, hosted by The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven.

Meeting the Moment: The Foundation Sets Agenda of Action

At the Annual Meeting in June, President & CEO Karen DuBois-Walton advanced a vision to meet the moment as new federal policy and priorities have made local communities and nonprofits less secure. “No matter the language, the community needs are clear: The moment calls for action,” said DuBois-Walton. READ MORE

Eight people stand in front of a building, smiling and holding a ribbon labeled Fair Haven Community Health Care during a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Some are holding large scissors, and balloons are in the background.

Foundation Awards $2.8M in Responsive Grants

In July, The Community Foundation awarded $2,879,000 through its annual responsive grants program to 81 nonprofits serving Greater New Haven. This year, The Foundation prioritized organizations that were negatively affected by federal actions, which have included policy changes and major funding cuts. READ MORE

A group of older adults socialize at round tables and stand in a museum-like space with displays and large banners; some people are talking, while others look toward the camera.

Donors Celebrated at Appreciation Reception

In May, The Foundation celebrated its donors with a reception and a tour of New Haven’s past at Lost in New Haven. Board Chair Fernando Muñiz welcomed attendees and President & CEO Karen DuBois-Walton opened her remarks with “the most important message of the night — a huge thank you. ... Thank you for believing in a vision of Greater New Haven where equity, opportunity and justice are within reach for every member of our community.” READ MORE

A woman smiles warmly while holding a baby close, gently touching noses. The baby looks at the camera as the woman gazes at the child. The background is softly lit with neutral colors.

Infant Mortality Awareness Month: Take Action

For nearly 30 years, New Haven Healthy Start has made significant improvements on maternal and infant health outcomes in our region, ensuring moms, dads and babies thrive. As this federal program is on the chopping block, take action today: Contact your representatives and tell them, “Babies can’t wait. Protect Healthy Start! Our region can’t afford to lose these instrumental, impactful community resources.” READ MORE

Four adults pose and smile together at a table in a bright indoor setting. Two women stand behind, while one woman and one man sit in front. The table has glasses and plates, and a potted plant is visible in the background.

Remember, Reclaim, Rise Across Connecticut

In honor of Black Philanthropy Month, The Community Foundation co-hosted a webinar together with the Connecticut Community Foundation, Fairfield County’s Community Foundation, the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving and The Prosperity Foundation. As part of the event, The Vineyard Project in New
Haven’s newly-formed advisory committee hosted a watch party in Hamden. READ MORE

A woman with curly brown hair, wearing a denim jacket over a black top, stands outdoors in soft sunlight, smiling with a confident expression. The background is blurred with blue and white tones.

Save the Date: November 13, Vision in Action

Vanessa Priya Daniel will be the keynote speaker for Vision in Action: The Community Fund for Women & Girls 30th Anniversary Celebration, to be held at 11 a.m. on November 13 at the Omni Hotel in New Haven. Daniel is the acclaimed author of the book, “Unrig the Game: What Women of Color Can Teach Everyone About Winning,” a bold blueprint for dismantling systems that hold women and girls back and building new ones that center care, connection and community. READ MORE

A middle-aged man with short hair and glasses, wearing a light blue button-down shirt, smiles while standing indoors next to a leafy green plant. The background shows a ceiling fan and part of a room.

The Gift of Stability, in Perpetuity

n 1928, the first fund at The Community Foundation was established by the bequest of Nettie J. Dayton. Over the years, The Foundation has grown from gifts by thoughtful people who made a provision in their will or trust, or made The Foundation a beneficiary of retirement plan assets, life insurance policies or bank accounts. Among these visionary donors is David P. O’Sullivan, longtime director of the Community Soup Kitchen in New Haven. READ MORE

A road stretches into the distance with the years 2025, 2026, 2027, and 2028 painted on it, suggesting progression into the future. The scene is surrounded by trees and illuminated by sunlight.

Planning to Give in 2025? We’re Ready to Assist.

The time is now! When giving through The Community Foundation, you increase the
power of your support to the causes you care about most, now and forever. Our development
staff is available to personally assist you with your year-end charitable giving through December 31. Contact us today! READ MORE