Report to Our Community 2024/25

Letter from the President & CEO and Board Chair

With new leadership in place, we step into the future with a renewed vision for accelerating meaningful change, and ensuring that every individual and family in our region has the opportunity to thrive. As we work toward this vision, The Foundation finds itself in a new place from a year ago. New priorities from the federal government are causing uncertainty, fear and harmful financial strains in our community. In the face of these challenges, The Foundation’s values and priorities are not changing.  This moment calls for action. The challenges before us — gaps in economic opportunity, persistent inequities, and systemic barriers — have not disappeared. They continue to demand innovative solutions and collective effort. Through our grantmaking, strategic initiatives and deep community engagement, we are actively shaping a future in which opportunity is not just available but accessible to all. 

Strengthening Communities Through Investment and Engagement 

Our grantmaking continues to be a powerful vehicle for impact, addressing immediate needs while fueling long-term change. Whether through supporting critical initiatives like Healthy Start, strengthening nonprofits, or funding innovative programs such as New Haven Promise, ConnCAT and NHE3’s entrepreneurial support, we are committed to lifting up communities and driving sustainable progress. Beyond our grantmaking, we have deepened our engagement and partnerships, expanding community-driven impact. We saw record-breaking generosity in The Great Give 2024, underscoring the power of collective philanthropy. Our capacity to explore pathways to greater equity was evident in our continued work with the Racial Equity Institute and new partnerships with institutions like Quinnipiac University. And our commitment to racial equity and inclusion was deepened by our willingness to face New Haven’s uncomfortable history through engagement with the Shining Light on Truth exhibit displayed at the New Haven Museum. The Latine Philanthropy Forum and Black Philanthropy work continued advancing culturally responsive giving, ensuring that philanthropy reflects and supports the rich diversity of our region. 

Leading with Innovation and Collaboration

As we chart our course forward, we recognize that strong leadership and collaboration are essential. The Neighborhood Leadership Program reboot, the Chauncey Fellowship, and the Changemaker Fund are investing in the next generation of leaders. Programs like Women & Girls mentoring and economic security efforts, along with our steadfast support for nonprofits, demonstrate our holistic approach to community building. DataHaven’s 30-year milestone reminds us of the power of data in driving informed decision-making and accountability. We remain committed to leveraging insights and research to shape policies and practices that create equitable outcomes for all.

Looking Ahead: A Future of Bold Action

As we bid farewell to a remarkable leader, Will Ginsberg who, in his final annual address, challenged us to find new ways to stay connected and work together, we embrace the future with determination. The urgency of this moment compels us to be bold, to reimagine philanthropy, and to champion solutions that break cycles of poverty, create economic mobility and lifting up every member of our community. Thank you for your partnership, generosity, and belief in the power of collective impact. Together, we are advancing opportunity and equity — ensuring that Greater New Haven is a place where all can prosper. 

With deep appreciation,

Karen DuBois-Walton, Ph.D.
President & Chief Executive Officer

Fernando J. Muñiz
Board Chair

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