The Vineyard Project In New Haven
There are certain threads of truth that have connected Black communities together over centuries. One truth is that despite strong opposition based upon race, people of color have always demonstrated strength, accomplishment, and achievement.
In recognition of this, as well as a desire to eliminate racial narratives that harm the wellbeing of the Black community, The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven launched The Vineyard Project In New Haven.
The Vineyard Project derives its name from the island of Martha's Vineyard, one of several locations that have played a historical and ongoing role in welcoming and celebrating the Black community without discrimination. Martha's Vineyard has long been a community hub for African American families affirming Black history, legacy building, and wealth creation through many enriching events.
In this same spirit, The Vineyard Project In New Haven is recognizing and amplifying the vibrant Black history and culture of our local community. Signature projects under The Vineyard Project include: immersive learning experiences for area students; collaborating with cultural institutions to highlight and promote the experiences of New Haven families; funding community groups implementing the work of narrative change; and elevating our collective understanding of our history.
Our Community Agreements
1. Radical Hospitality - We welcome each other fully, with warmth, generosity and grace. Everyone here belongs.
2. Freedom from Anti-Blackness -This is a space where Blackness is celebrated, affirmed, and never diminished. We actively resist anti-Blackness in all its forms — internal, external and systemic.
3. Rest and Restoration - We honor rest as resistance. We slow down, breathe and allow space for joy, laughter and exhale.
4. Collective Care - We look out for one another’s well-being. Care is not optional — it is a shared responsibility.
5. Excellence with Ease - We bring brilliance, vision, and rigor — without replicating grind culture. We can be both excellent and at ease.
6. Intergenerational Wisdom - We honor the wisdom of our elders, nurture the voices of our youth and build bridges across generations.
7. Abundance Mindset - We operate from a place of abundance, not scarcity. There is enough — enough love, enough brilliance, enough resources — for all of us to thrive.
8. Generosity of Spirit - Philanthropy is not just giving money — it is giving time, presence, knowledge and care. We share freely and uplift one another.
9. Inform, Inspire, Imagine - We commit to being a space where we learn together, share knowledge, and dream beyond the limitations imposed on us.
10. Carry the Vineyard with Us -The spirit we feel on the Vineyard — ease, joy, safety, affirmation — is not limited to one week in one place. We carry it into every room, every table and every space we create together.
Constance Baker Motley exhibit
Timeless: Telling our Neighborhood Stories
The "Timeless: Telling our Neighborhood Stories" exhibit explores New Haven native Constance Baker Motley’s professional and personal life as she became the first African American woman to argue a case before the Supreme Court and to serve as a federal judge. While on display at the Dixwell Community Q House, the exhibit, supported by The Vineyard Project in New Haven, received visits from more than 500 individuals, organizations, students and families.
Named Fund Initiative
The Vineyard Project In New Haven invites you to create a personally named fund where you direct your philanthropic dollars to support causes that you care about. And to show our commitment to the power of your voice, For more information about creating a named fund, please contact Erica Bradley below.
Vineyard Project: Founder Highlights
Hear inspiring stories from founding members of The Vineyard Project In New Haven.
Vineyard Project: Event Highlights
Aug. 10, 2023 — The Vineyard Project Founder's Circle gathered at Oak Bluffs on Martha's Vineyard, Mass. for an intimate celebration of Black Philanthropy and the rich history and culture of our community. Watch the video highlights of this special day.
March 7, 2023 — Timeless: Telling Our Neighborhood Stories, Chapter One: Constance Baker Motley exhibit reception at the Dixwell Q House, hosted by The Vineyard Project In New Haven Founders Circle of The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven. Remarks from Khalilah Brown-Dean, PhD. and Constance Royster, J.D., and niece of Judge Motley.
July 7, 2022 — The Vineyard Project In New Haven launched at an event hosted at ConnCORP in Hamden.
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