Photo: Ben Cleeton
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hope + action = transformation
Taking the helm of an established community organization is both a privilege and a tremendous responsibility. As I reflect on my first year of leadership here, I feel deeply grateful for all I have learned and experienced. This year has been one of listening to the hopes and needs of our neighbors, leaning on the support of family and friends, and leading alongside inspiring colleagues and dedicated community partners. It has been filled with challenges, yes — but also with countless moments of joy, gratitude, and inspiration that far outweigh the trials.
More than anything, what I carry forward from this year is a deep sense of hope. Your generosity gives me hope. Your resilience strengthens it. And your smiles and stories remind me why this work matters every single day.
Our region is on the cusp of exciting, transformative change. With so much ahead of us — new opportunities, growing industries, and shifting landscapes — it can feel daunting to know where to focus our energy. But everywhere we look, there are signs of progress: cranes dotting the skyline, shovels breaking ground, and communities imagining what’s next.
Just as roadwork can reroute our daily commutes, sometimes we need to forge new pathways to arrive at our desired destination. We may encounter roadblocks and bumps along the way. We may even need to pull over and ask for directions. The path to progress may not always unfold in a straight line, but together, we can chart a course toward a stronger, more vibrant Central New York.
Like Ted Lasso, I believe in hope. But hope alone is not enough — it becomes powerful only when paired with action. Together, we are already laying the groundwork for lasting change. By staying true to our mission of building a community where everyone has equal access to opportunity, we are turning this hopeful moment into positive momentum.
We already have a solid foundation, and with your partnership, we can transform our region to create a brighter, more inclusive future for all who call Central New York home.
With gratitude and optimism,
Chair, Board of Directors
Melanie Littlejohn, MBA President & CEO
Bea González
Melanie Littlejohn, MBA
year in review
AFFILIATE FUNDS
Our affiliate funds had an outstanding year of fundraising and grantmaking to support nonprofits across the region. In partnership with the John Ben Snow Memorial Trust, the Greater Pulaski Community Endowment Fund distributed $37,381 in grants; in addition, the Cayuga Community Fund distributed $87,725 in grants, the Oswego County Community Foundation distributed $35,825 in grants and the Women’s Fund of Central New York distributed $57,100 in grants.
$400,000 GRANT RECEIVED FOR LEADSAFECNY EFFORTS
In January, we received a $400,000 grant from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation to support the LeadSafeCNY Coalition’s outreach and community engagement over the next two years. The coalition is a collaboration of stakeholders from the healthcare, housing, education, philanthropy and government sectors, as well as affected residents, who are working to decrease lead poisoning rates in Central New York. leadsafecny.org
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
To date, we have reached more than 6,000 people within Onondaga County through our community engagement efforts. Over the past year, our staff tabled at more than 15 community events across Central New York, connecting and engaging with more than 1,400 community members and countless organizations.
INTERMEDIARY FOR MICRON WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INVESTMENT NAMED
In December, Micron named the Community Foundation as the lead intermediary to help steward the investment of $65 million in federal dollars awarded by the Department of Commerce as part of its overall CHIPS Act incentive package. Our primary role will be to manage national grantmaking under the direction of Micron. CenterState CEO and the Idaho Workforce Development Council (WDC) were named sub-intermediaries.
PARTNER IN PHILANTHROPY AWARD
RECOGNITION PROGRAM
Last July, we named our first inaugural Partner in Philanthropy Award recipient, Caragh Fahy, CFP.® This new recognition honors estate planning attorneys, financial advisors, tax accountants and life insurance professionals who prioritize philanthropy in their service to clients. Each individual is committed to the community and their work to support philanthropy and encourage charitable giving across Central New York. This year we named William T. Kriesel, CPA/PFS, CFP,® AEP,® as our 2025 recipient. cnycf.org/partnerinphilanthropy
RECOMMITMENT TO LEADSAFECNY
In 2018, we committed to invest $2 million through our LeadSafeCNY initiative to help decrease childhood lead poisoning rates in Syracuse. Since then, more than $3.2 million has been distributed, nearly 2,190 windows and 210 doors have been replaced and more than 253 safe and affordable rental units have been either newly constructed or renovated. This year, we announced our commitment of an additional $1 million toward this effort. leadsafecny.org
RECOMMITMENT TO BLACK EQUITY & EXCELLENCE FUND
This year, we announced our commitment of an additional $1 million to our Black Equity & Excellence Fund (BE&E). BE&E is designed to fund community-based projects that center, uplift and serve Black communities in Central New York by addressing economic and social disparities caused by historic marginalization. Since its inception in 2020, BE&E has distributed more than $1.8 million and welcomed 228 first-time applicants to the Community Foundation. cnycf.org/equity
SOFTWARE TRANSITION & NEW SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION SYSTEM
Over the past year our staff worked diligently to facilitate the migration of our databases to a newly integrated software. Our new online MyGiving portal for fundholders and our new grants portal for grant applicants provide exciting new features to better serve our community. We also implemented a new cloud-based scholarship software system, designed to simplify and streamline the application process to better serve students and scholarship committees.
SAY YES SYRACUSE CELEBRATES 15 YEARS
Say Yes Syracuse celebrated 15 years of impact. Since 2009, Say Yes Syracuse has distributed 6,550 scholarships totaling $15.7 million to eligible students, making college more accessible and affordable by addressing the primary barrier to education — cost. Say Yes graduates have gone on to work in a variety of fields and places across the world. sayyessyracuse.org
TLC CELEBRATES 30 YEARS
In celebration of The Leadership Classroom (TLC)’s 30th anniversary, we hosted an awards dinner to honor organizations and individuals creating impactful change in our region. Over the past 30 years, nearly 600 individuals have graduated from TLC and more than $305,000 in grants have been awarded towards the graduates’ community projects. cnycf.org/tlc
VOICES RISING DOCUMENTARY PREMIERE
Last September, nearly 300 attendees joined us on the outdoor plaza of the Everson Museum of Art for our premiere of Voices Rising: Syracuse’s Fight Against Lead Poisoning. The documentary, produced by Black Cub Productions, highlights the transformative power of community engagement through participatory budgeting to address the injustice of childhood lead poisoning in Syracuse. cnycf.org/voicesrising
A. Syracuse Section of the National Council of Negro Women, a Black Equity & Excellence grant recipient;
B. Community engagement through tabling at the NYS Equal Rights Heritage Center’s Saturday Market
C. Partner in Philanthropy Award recipient, William T. Kriesel (third from left), at our Professional Advisor Reception;
D. TLC 30th Anniversary & Awards Dinner
Right:
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transformation through a year of grantmaking Exceeding Expectations
Between April 1, 2024 and March 31, 2025, we received $40 million in gifts and bequests and distributed more than $25 million in grant support to nonprofit organizations in Central New York and surrounding areas.
BLACK EQUITY & EXCELLENCE FUNDING
Our Black Equity & Excellence Fund is designed to fund communitybased projects that center, uplift and serve Black communities in Central New York by addressing economic and social disparities caused by historic marginalization. The fund is dedicated to fostering self-sufficiency, economic development, and community empowerment. This year we distributed 31 grants totaling $253,650.
COMMUNITY GRANTMAKING
We offer a wide variety of funding opportunities, the largest of which is our Community Grants program. We provide grant funding to nonprofit organizations in Onondaga and Madison counties for projects in the areas of arts and culture, civic affairs, education, health, human services and the environment. This year we distributed 55 grants totaling $2,068,712.
RURAL POVERTY SUPPORT
The Madison County Rural Poverty Fund is our effort to support poverty-related issues and organizations in Madison County. This year we distributed three grants totaling $52,000.
ADDITIONAL GRANTMAKING
We also distributed 29 small grants totaling $183,412; 23 literacy grants totaling $218,541, including operational support for Imagination Library; two IDEA grants totaling $33,500; two AntiPoverty Initiative grants totaling $100,000; nine Cortland County Bright Ideas grants totaling $45,000; and one Strategic Partnership Fund grant to support nonprofit mergers and affiliations for $25,000. View a full list of our grants at cnycf.org/grants.
InterFaith Works received a Madison County Rural Poverty grant to support its Senior Companion Program.
special projects
COMMUNITY RESOURCE & KNOWLEDGE
Drawing on nearly a century of commitment to collecting and analyzing local data, we serve as a resource for residents seeking insight on community issues.
5forCNY empowers individuals to play a lasting role in our community’s future through legacy giving.
Our Community Data Group brings together nonprofit and government partners to share data and coordinate efforts for greater community impact.
CNY Vitals & CNY Vitals Pro are community data sites offering shared, interactive insights on key issues shaping our region.
The Life Needs Assessment helps nonprofits use accessible software to improve performance management, evaluation, collaboration, engagement and equity analysis.
PROFESSIONAL & ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
For many decades we have been a leading sponsor of programs designed to strengthen our region’s nonprofit sector.
NEWS/Nonprofit Essential Workshop Series is our professional and organizational development series for nonprofit staff. This year, our workshops welcomed 234 attendees.
Our Staff Advancement Initiative helps cover professional development costs for early-career nonprofit staff. This year, 20 participants received funding.
The Leadership Classroom (TLC) teaches grassroots leaders skills that make stronger, more effective neighborhoods. This year, 30 individuals representing five organizations graduated.
Marsellus Forward is a community of nonprofit leaders sharing resources, knowledge and best practices.
Onondaga Earth Corps uses the Life Needs Assessment to better understand and support community needs.
STRATEGIC INITIATIVES
Beyond our responsive grantmaking, our strategic initiatives tackle our community’s complex challenges to create measurable, lasting impact.
Through our local Impact Investing, we make investments that generate both financial returns and positive social outcomes for nonprofits.
Our LeadSafeCNY initiative addresses childhood lead poisoning through funding, collaboration and policy. This year we distributed eight grants totaling $625,677 to construct and renovate safe homes and conduct community outreach and training.
Say Yes Syracuse — governed and administered by the Community Foundation — expands college access for Syracuse City School District students through scholarships.
View a full list of our special initiatives and collaborative community efforts at cnycf.org/initiatives.
HONORING VALUES AND STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY: BRAD AND REBECCA RAPHAEL
or Rebecca and Brad Raphael, giving back has always been a family tradition — one rooted in gratitude, community and faith. As fundholders at the Community Foundation, the couple is continuing that tradition while creating new pathways to serve their community together.
Rebecca grew up in Baltimore in a family where service was a shared responsibility. “My parents instilled in me the importance of giving — not just financially, but through time, love and showing up for people,” she said. “They modeled how to give thoughtfully and consistently, especially in ways that supported Jewish causes and underserved communities.”
Brad, a physician from Syracuse like his father, was similarly influenced by his upbringing. His father modeled compassion and humility, instilling in Brad a commitment to supporting health-based organizations. His grandfather, a teacher who helped establish Onondaga Community College, further shaped his dedication to education and opportunity. His mother was a lifelong advocate for Jewish education and culture. “It was just part of our life,” he said. “Supporting education, healthcare and community well-being was something we saw and learned to value early on.”
After marrying and settling in Central New York, the couple looked for ways to deepen their charitable impact locally. They found a match in the Community Foundation.
Through their donor-advised fund, Rebecca and Brad support a range of organizations aligned with their shared values — education, healthcare and especially local initiatives serving the Jewish community. Their fund also provides them the flexibility to respond to emerging needs and opportunities to promote interfaith collaboration.
“We’re grateful to live in a community that embraces diversity and understands the strength that comes from working together across
“At the end of the day, we’re all neighbors — and that’s what matters.”really
lines of differing faiths and backgrounds,” said Rebecca. “The work that we do with our fund is about bridging communities and lifting everyone up — it’s a way to build empathy and connection.”
Their fund has helped them amplify both their giving and their involvement. “It simplifies how we support causes that matter to us and gives us confidence that our contributions are making an impact here in Central New York,” said Rebecca.
Their giving is not just financial. Rebecca and Brad are deeply involved in their community, regularly volunteering their time and engaging with local organizations. “It’s important to us to give both our time and resources,” Brad said. “We want to be part of the change we hope to see.”
Rebecca’s connection to the Community Foundation deepened when she joined our board of directors. She formerly chaired our board’s Development & Communications Committee — a role she explained was especially meaningful.
“It’s been an honor to serve alongside others who care deeply about the future of our region,” she said. “The Community Foundation’s thoughtful approach to community investment and inclusion resonates with how Brad and I think about giving.”
For the couple, philanthropy is a family value they are now passing on to their children. “We want them to know that giving is part of who we are — not just something we do,” said Rebecca.
Looking ahead, Brad and Rebecca hope their fund will continue to grow as a tool for meaningful, inclusive giving. “We want to stay connected to the needs of our community and be part of building something lasting,” said Brad. “Our donor-advised fund helps us do that, in a way that honors our values and strengthens the place we call home. At the end of the day, we’re all neighbors — and that’s what really matters.”
Rebecca and Brad stand with their three children in front of their home.
Photo: Ben Cleeton
Tim (third from left) sits with community members during a SOFSA coffee hour at GereBlock, a co-working space in downtown Syracuse.
SOFSA BRINGS PEOPLE TO THE TABLE TO TALK ABOUT FOOD SYSTEMS
Tim Bryant was pursuing a master’s degree focused on food systems and food waste when a traumatic brain injury in 2023 interrupted his studies at Pepperdine University. During his recovery, he began visiting farmers markets and other food venues — linking his rehabilitation with his long-standing interest in food.
Today, Bryant serves as one of four community connectors with the Syracuse-Onondaga Food Systems Alliance (SOFSA), a network of individuals and organizations working to build a more just and thriving local food economy. In his role, he leads conversations about food justice and strengthens relationships between stakeholders and those who grow, distribute and serve food in Syracuse, Onondaga County and the Onondaga Nation.
“Being a community connector is about bringing people together to talk about food,” said Bryant. “We want to give residents as many opportunities as possible to have a seat at the table — so they can help shape local food policy.”
SOFSA addresses root causes of food inequity through its Community Listening Sessions,
“I don’t know how we talk about community if we don’t include everyone.”
Food Justice Symposiums and Community Connectors Program. In 2022, we provided SOFSA with the first of three $50,000 grants from our Anti-Poverty Initiative Fund to fuel these efforts and support system-level change.
Bryant knows firsthand how systems — and support — can shape a life. Growing up in an under-resourced New Jersey neighborhood, he experienced discrimination and violence that left him with permanent injuries. Still,
he earned a bachelor’s degree in public health from Syracuse University, where he received the Chancellor’s Award for Public and Community Service.
He now channels that lived experience into his work with SOFSA, amplifying voices too often sidelined — especially members of the queer community and people with disabilities.
“I don’t know how we talk about community if we don’t include everyone,” he said.
And Bryant does just that: As a community connector, he hosts inclusive coffee hours and neighborhood gatherings that invite residents of all backgrounds to shape the local food conversation.
“These connections close the gap between the people doing the work and the people being served,” he said. “Food is the perfect entry point — we all have a relationship to it. It reminds us that we’re not alone in this work, and that real change happens when we come together.”
Read the full story at cnycf.org/2025 or scan the QR code.
Photo: Ben Cleeton
CATHERINE BERTINI: A LEGACY GROUNDED IN PLACE, GUIDED BY PURPOSE
Catherine Bertini’s story is one of deep family ties, global leadership and a steadfast love for her hometown.
government, led the United Nations World Food Program for 10 years, and was named the 2003 World Food Prize Laureate for her global work fighting hunger and uplifting women.
The Bertini family has been part of Cortland County’s fabric since 1903, when Catherine’s grandfather immigrated from Sgurgola, Italy. More than a century later, Catherine is one of the few family members still living locally — but her commitment to the region is as strong as ever.
of the few family members still living locally — but her commitment to the region is as strong as ever.
Though her career took her across the globe, Catherine has always kept Central New York close to her heart. Her donor-advised fund at the Community Foundation — the Bertini Family Foundation — honors her family’s history and supports the community they helped build.
“I envision my fund making a positive local impact both during my lifetime and after I’m gone,” she said.
Her childhood was steeped in music, art and classic literature — passions passed down by her father, a talented engineer and artist. Those early influences led Catherine and her siblings to pursue careers aligned with their father’s wide-ranging interests.
Catherine’s own career has spanned public service, humanitarian leadership and international policy. She held senior roles in
Locally, she serves on the selection committee for our Cortland Bright Ideas grant program, which awards grants to nonprofits serving Cortland County. She also serves on our board of directors, among other national and international organizations.
Looking ahead, Catherine is committed to supporting music, the arts and Italian immigrant heritage in Cortland County and the broader region. In addition to her current fund, she plans to establish the Catherine Bertini Fund to carry on her legacy in food security, human welfare and the advancement of women and girls worldwide.
“I am proud to know that these funds will be a vehicle for having a legacy in Central New York and beyond,” she said.
With her vision and generosity, Catherine ensures the values of hard work, service and community continue to thrive — locally and globally — for future generations.
Read the full story at cnycf.org/2025 or scan the QR code.
Catherine (left) sits with Kelly Tobin, executive director of the YWCA — an organization in Cortland County that she supports in honor of her parents’ legacy.
“I am proud to know that these funds will be a vehicle for having a legacy in Central New York and beyond.”
Photo: Ben Cleeton
FINDING STRENGTH, HEALING AND PURPOSE THROUGH CONNECTION WITH
“Skanda gave me the support I didn’t even know I needed.”
yla Sevillo is insightful, driven and deeply compassionate — qualities that shine through in the way she cares for animals and dreams of creating a more just world for them.
Now 16 and a student at LaFayette Big Picture School, she spends her Tuesdays and Thursdays interning at The Haven at Skanda, a nonprofit animal sanctuary and farm in Cazenovia. For Kyla, it’s more than just an internship — it’s a place where she’s discovered connection, healing and purpose.
“I wanted to work with animals because I know they deserve better,” she said. “They feel things just like we do. Some of them have been through a lot, and I understand what that’s like.”
Kyla was adopted at age two and has carried with her the experience of being left behind by someone who was supposed to care for her. It’s a pain she sees mirrored in many of the animals at Skanda. “My biological mom didn’t really care,” she said. “She left me, just like people sometimes leave animals. And that really stuck with me.”
That sense of empathy and determination is what first drew her to Skanda. After researching animal sanctuaries online, she found Skanda’s mission — to offer love, hope and possibilities to rescued animals and the
Kyla shares a quiet moment with Sully, a rescued Highland cow from a Long Island farm.
RESCUED ANIMALS
children who care for them — and immediately knew she wanted to be part of it.
Located in rural Madison County, The Haven at Skanda is home to rescued horses, goats, pigs and other animals who have survived neglect or abuse. But its impact reaches far beyond the barn. Through its trauma-informed youth program, Skanda welcomes children and teens — many of whom face significant life challenges — for hands-on learning, social-emotional support and healing.
In Madison County, nearly half of school-aged children qualify for free or reduced lunch. According to CNYVitals.org, children living in poverty are more likely to experience adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), such as abuse, neglect or household instability. These experiences can shape a child’s development and make it harder to succeed without the right supports in place.
That’s where Skanda steps in. With help from a grant from our Madison County Rural Poverty Fund, Skanda’s youth program is offered free of charge to children from income-eligible households. Participants work with animals, learn mindfulness, develop leadership skills and build relationships in a safe, nurturing environment.
“When I first came here, I didn’t have a lot of structure,” Kyla said. “But the animals helped me feel calm and focused. I started waking up excited on the days I got to come here.”
One of her closest connections is with Freddy, a mule who arrived at Skanda scared and untrusting after surviving mistreatment. “Freddy didn’t trust anyone,” said Nicole Woodruff, program facilitator and The Haven at Skanda’s board president. “Kyla was the first person he bonded with. It changed him — and it changed her.”
Kyla’s experiences have helped her envision a future rooted in compassion. She hopes to study animal science or behavior in college — SUNY Morrisville is currently her top choice — and eventually become an animal cruelty investigator or run her own sanctuary.
“Skanda gave me the support I didn’t even know I needed,” she said. “It’s made me more confident and more sure of what I want to do.”
In a region where rural poverty and trauma are pressing concerns, The Haven at Skanda offers a model for what’s possible when children are met with care, opportunity and love — something Kyla now shares with every animal she meets.
“We don’t start with the question of if — we start with how.”
NEW WHEELS, NEW WORLDS: JOWONIO SCHOOL EXPANDS INCLUSIVE LEARNING
ohammed Stokes is a bright, curious child who enjoys playtime and ice cream as much as anyone his age. However, when his mom, Mel Ibrahim, noticed he wasn’t making eye contact or engaging with others like most toddlers, she trusted her instincts.
Despite doctors dismissing her concerns, Mohammed was eventually diagnosed with level three autism. Finding the right learning environment proved difficult — until Ibrahim discovered Jowonio.
Named after an Onondaga word meaning “to set free,” Jowonio is an inclusive early childhood school that celebrates diversity and ensures every child can fully participate and thrive. Its play-based curriculum supports the social, emotional and academic growth of children of all abilities through individualized learning and accessible classrooms.
“We don’t start with the question of if — we start with how,” said Lori Saile, Jowonio’s director.
Community-based learning is central to that approach. Field trips to local parks, stores and museums help students connect classroom lessons to the real world. But for children with disabilities, participating in those experiences can be difficult without the right support.
That’s why we awarded Jowonio with a Community Grant to help purchase one of two new vans, each outfitted with special
equipment to ensure accessibility. The vans expand field trip opportunities and help families who lack reliable transportation participate in school events.
“These vans are more than just vehicles — they’re the keys to introducing our children to the excitement and beauty of Central New York,” said Saile. “There are children who otherwise wouldn’t be able to go on a field trip and these vans make access possible — for every child and every family.”
For Mohammed, the impact was immediate. “The shift to playbased learning made him feel comfortable,” Ibrahim said. “I’ve seen immense progress — not only in his communication, but in his personality.”
Jowonio serves more than 150 children and partners with 23 school districts. It also works with the Early Childhood Alliance to strengthen inclusive practices across the region and advocates for accessible community spaces where all children can play and connect.
“We’ve heard from teachers that they can always tell who the Jowonio graduates are,” said Saile. “They lead with empathy, kindness and confidence.”
For children like Mohammed, Jowonio is opening doors — and helping build a more inclusive future, one joyful journey at a time.
Read the full story at cnycf.org/2025 or scan the QR code.
Mohammed (left) sits in one of Jowonio’s new vans.
Photo: Ben Cleeton
impact investing
Impact investing allows us to use our financial resources to make investments that generate both financial returns and positive social outcomes. In 2023, our board of directors approved a policy that allows us to use up to 5% of our main investment pool for the purpose of local impact investment. By leveraging financial resources and investing in organizations and projects that align with our mission, we are able to make the most of our capital assets while contributing to the long-term well-being and development of our community.
INVESTMENT PORTFOLIO
Communit y Foundation capital $ 6,654,550 97.8% Donor capital $ 150,000 2.2%
Total Investments $ 6,804,550 100.0%
Portfolio represents funded investments as of June 30, 2025.
$6.65M Invested in Region
$31.6M Leveraged for Home Loans
$37.6M Leveraged for Personal, Business & Other Loans
66 Low-Moderate Income Homes Constructed or Rehabilitated 2,433 Residents Received Legal Aid
INVESTMENT SPOTLIGHT
NEW LINE OF CREDIT OPENED FOR DUNBAR ASSOCIATION DEAL
n December, we closed on a $450,000 deal to secure a low interest line of credit for the Dunbar Association. This investment enabled Dunbar to install a new HVAC system. These critical upgrades were needed to maintain the comfort and safety of visitors while the organization awaited reimbursement from a state grant contract. The Dunbar Association is a Syracusebased community center that serves families, youth and seniors by hosting a wide range of programs and gatherings.
Without the new boiler, Dunbar reported it would have been forced to cancel programming during the winter months. The upgraded HVAC controls and air conditioning have also ensured the building remains a safe and comfortable space in the summer. The new system is also expected to reduce energy costs.
Our local impact investing program is designed to help organizations such as Dunbar continue essential services despite funding delays. A 2023 survey of local nonprofits found that 58% experienced delayed reimbursements from New York State grants. Through our impact investing efforts, we are helping local organizations bridge critical funding gaps and sustain vital community programs.
our par tners
ANONYMOUS (4)
MARILYN J. BAADER
ABRAHAM BARSHESHAT
JEAN BEERS
STEVEN H. BERKOWITZ & LAURIE E. BERKOWITZ
DUSHYANT N. BHATT
MARILYN M. BITTNER
THE BREUER FAMILY
CHARLOTTE BROWN
MARIE D. BROWNELL
FRANK G. & DORINDA CAPELLA
THERESA CAREAGA
NANCY CARLSON
ALAN B. DOLMATCH & LINDA L. DOLMATCH
DEBORAH DONAHUE & MICHAEL LEE
JOHN M. ELLIOTT & MARGARET M. ELLIOTT
EQUITY WARRIOR STRATEGIES
THERESA M. EVANS & MARK G. EVANS
CHRISTOPHER FINKLE
EDWARD A. FOGARTY
SUSAN FURTNEY & TONY SCOTT
BEA GONZÁLEZ
MR. RICHARD GREEN & MRS. DOLORES GREEN
KATHY GROSSMAN
SUSANNA G. HARPER
WILLIAM A. & DEBRA M. HILLER
JOSEPH J. & DONNA J. HIPIUS
HOWLAND STONE STORE MUSEUM
ELAINE & STEVEN L. JACOBS
MICHAEL S. JIM
LEWIS & JULIE JOHNSON
MARGO & JEFF KLEIN
THE JACOB & MINNIE KLIMAN FOUNDATION
JEFF & HETA KNAUSS
JAN & PATRICK LANE
JOSEPH LAZZARO
LE MOYNE COLLEGE
DAVIDD B. LEVY & JENNIFER A. LEVY
TISHA LINDSTROM
JAMES MACKILLOP
DON MACLAUGHLIN & PATRICIA MACLAUGHLIN
CANDACE & JOHN MARSELLUS
GEORGE & DOROTHY R. MATTHEWS
GAIL M. MCINTYRE
IN MEMORY OF IN HONOR OF COMMUNITY FUND DONORS
CHRISTINE WOODCOCK DETTOR
DR. LORNE A. RUNGE
MARY H. MORAN & JORDAN E. KERBER
PRAGYA & MICHAEL MURPHY
JOHN A. & KAREN D. NOVAK
SHIRLEY & LARRY NOVAK
THE NUAIR TEAM
MARION R. NYDAM
DANIEL D. RABUZZI
RETINA-VITREOUS SURGEONS OF CNY
CHRISTINE RILEY & MARK L. FELDMAN
JEFF & JULIE RUBENSTEIN
ESTATE OF DR. LORNE RUNGE
MEAGHAN E. SAMERE
ROBERT SARASON & JANE BURKHEAD
PHYLLIS HOTCHKISS SCHWARTZ
JANE SLABOWSKI & PETER MCCARTHY
ANNE C. SMITH
JOHN & KATJA SODJA
RICK STEUL
SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY
KATHERINE TEASDALE-EDWARDS
JAMES & DEBORAH TIFFT
L. LAWRENCE TULLY & SALLY G. TULLY
UPSTATE FOUNDATION, INC.
MARTHA B. VIGLIETTA & ANTHONY VIGLIETTA
NORMA WIDMANN
DAVID J. WILSON & JAYNE E. WILSON
ARC OF ONONDAGA
THOMAS M. GRIFFITH
MELANIE W. LITTLEJOHN
MOZAIC
KIMBERLY P. SADOWSKI
The tributes and the donors listed on this page reflect giving between April 1, 2024 and March 31, 2025.
View a full list of our giving partners at cnycf.org/partners.
new funds
We gratefully acknowledge the generous community-minded individuals, families and organizations that established 32 new funds with us this year to benefit the community now and for generations to come.
SYRACUSE POLISH COMMUNITY FUND
The Syracuse Polish Home is 105 years old. It came into existence in 1919 with the purpose of serving the Polish immigrant residents and families of Onondaga County as a social and educational focal point. The Syracuse Polish Home is a vibrant spot in the Central New York community, with various activities taking place seven days a week, ranging from Veterans’ Meetings, Neighborhood Watch, Polish Language & Culture Classes, Polish Cooking Classes, etc. The Syracuse Polish Community Fund was created to continue to raise awareness of the value of Polish culture in a more organized and sustainable manner.
View a full list of our funds at cnycf.org/funds. The funds listed on this page were created between April 1, 2024 and March 31, 2025.
AGENCY FUNDS
100 BLACK MEN OF SYRACUSE LEGACY FUND
CAZENOVIA PRESERVATION FOUNDATION FUND
ERIE CANAL MUSEUM SUSTAINABILITY FUND
GEORGIA POPOFF YMCA WRITERS VOICE FUND
MONTEZUMA HERITAGE PARK FUND
SYRACUSE POLISH COMMUNITY FUND
TOWN OF SKANEATELES PICKLEBALL COURTS FUND
COMMUNITY FUNDS
JAMES & EILEEN CLINTON COMMUNITY FUND
LAURENCE A. HOEFLER COMMUNITY FUND
DESIGNATED FUNDS
NONI & HAROLD BRISTOL FUND
DON BURKE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND
JOHN G. CHOMYK FUND
DAVID & CAROLE KROSS FUND
EVELYN VIDLER NAIOTI FUND FOR NURSING
PAULETTE & KEVIN QUINN FUND
MARIE O’BRIEN ROTHBALER & EDWIN C. ROTHBALER FUND
SEMPER FIDELIS AWARD FUND
DONOR-ADVISED FUNDS
TIMOTHY D. CLARK FUND
EMPIRE STATE ATHLETE COMMUNITY FUND
FIVE HANDS FAMILY FUND
FRIENDS OF KESHO CONGO FUND
RICHARD & ROXANNE KOPECKY CHARITABLE FUND
LORRAINE KOURY & PETER GIFFORD MEMORIAL FUND
CALEB LEONARD MEMORIAL FUND
THE NORKETT FAMILY GIVING FUND
JULIE REEVES FUND
RM CARE AND OUTREACH FUND
MARJORIE J. THOMPSON EDUCATION FUND
THE YAHI FAMILY FUND FIELD-OF-INTEREST
1886 BENEVOLENT SOCIETY FUND
BUCCI-DESERIO FAMILY FOUNDATION
SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS
CONCETTA TUORI MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Syracuse Polish Home members
financial information
MESSAGE FROM THE CFO
very year, when I sit down to write this message, I reflect on how best to share the financial picture behind the work we do at the Community Foundation. At its core, this message is about stewardship — about honoring the trust you’ve placed in us to manage the resources that fuel positive change in Central New York.
The past year reminded us once again that volatility is part of the investment landscape. While that can feel unsettling, we know a steady, disciplined approach is what carries us — and your generosity — through all kinds of conditions. We don’t react to short-term noise. Instead, we remain focused on a diversified, long-term strategy designed to weather change and support lasting impact.
Our Finance Committee — in partnership with our investment consultant, Crewcial Partners — reviews our portfolio regularly to ensure alignment with our performance goals, risk tolerance and values. We offer two thoughtfully constructed investment pools: our main pool and our Sustainable Responsible Impact (SRI) pool. Both are designed for moderate, long-term growth and include a mix of asset classes to balance return with resilience.
We continue to follow a spending policy that calculates distributions based on a 20-quarter average. This approach helps ensure consistent support for the nonprofits and causes our donors care deeply about, even when markets are less predictable.
We’re proud to report that the Community Foundation remains financially strong and well-positioned to meet today’s needs while preparing for tomorrow’s possibilities. Thank you for your continued partnership and belief in our shared mission. It’s a privilege to carry your philanthropic goals forward — especially during times that call for steadiness and care.
Kimberly P. Sadowski, CPA Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
SUMMARY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 2025
BALANCE SHEET
426,956,381
$ 467,525,786
STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES
39,976, 116
118,0 51
394 ,838,330
End of Year $ 426,956,381
The Community Foundation’s audit is conducted by The Bonadio Group. The complete Consolidated Financial Statements, with accompanying
n Donor-Advised
$186,372,867
n Community
$91,912, 363
n Scholarships
$57,990,125
n Field-of-Interest
$55,180,081
n Designated & Special Projects
$44,683,843
n Nonprofit Agency
$31,386,507
ASSETS BY FUND TYPE CONTRIBUTIONS BY FUND TYPE
$467,525,786
n Donor-Advised
$29,023,749
n Designated & Special Projects
$4,806,237
n Field-of-Interest
$3,724,162
n Community
$1,413,276
n Scholarships
$1,008,692
GRANTS BY FUND TYPE
n Donor-Advised
$15,017,777
n Designated & Special Projects
$4,414,377
n Field-of-Interest
$2,075,177
n Community
$2,026,685
n Scholarships
$1,665,037
$467,525,786
$25,199,053
$25,199,053
CNY PHILANTHROPY CENTER
431 EAST FAYETTE STREET, SUITE 100
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK 13202 315.422.9538
STAFF BOARD
PRESIDENT & CEO
MELANIE LITTLEJOHN, MBA
NIKKI POLES Executive Assistant
COMMUNICATIONS
KATRINA M. CROCKER Vice President of Communications
JULIET R. MALOFF Director of Communications
LEILA R. MOGHADASI Communications Associate (THROUGH AUGUST 22, 2025)
CORY SCHAD Digital Communications Officer
COMMUNITY INVESTMENT
FRANK M. RIDZI, PHD
Vice President of Community Investment
DARRELL D. BUCKINGHAM Senior Program Officer
COLBY CYRUS, CAPM Senior Program Manager
ELISIA GONZALEZ Grants Manager
DANIELLE M. JOHNSON
Senior Director of Grants & Programs
KANISCHA MILLER
Program Associate (THROUGH JUNE 11, 2025)
QIANA WILLIAMS Senior Program Officer
DEVELOPMENT
THOMAS M. GRIFFITH, AEP®, CAP®, CHFC® Vice President of Development
ELIZABETH GAGNÉ Philanthropic Services Officer
TORI HART Philanthropic Services Officer
JAN L. LANE, CAP® Senior Philanthropic Advisor
MONICA M. MERANTE, CAP® Senior Director of Philanthropic Services
PRAGYA S. MURPHY, CAP® , MBA Director of Development & Impact Investment
FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION
KIMBERLY P. SADOWSKI, CPA Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
GERIANNE P. CORRADINO, SHRM-CP Human Resources & Operations Officer
SARAH EDLUND Office Manager
DANA C. FIEL
Finance Manager
JENNY E. GREEN Director of Information Systems & Strategy
LIZ HARTMAN, CPA
Senior Director of Finance
DAVONA LAWRENCE
Finance Associate
DANA E. LYONS-CANTY Special Projects Officer
YEISHA NÚÑEZ-DENSON Accountant
SCHOLARSHIPS AND STUDENT SUCCESS
AHMEED H. TURNER Vice President of Scholarships & Student Success; Executive Director of Say Yes Syracuse
DERARETU ABUBEKER Scholarships & Student Success Manager
LISA D. ALFORD
JAIME ALICEA
CATHERINE BERTINI
WILLIAM H. BROWER III
MARTIN T. DURKIN, JR.**
STEPHEN D. FOURNIER**
SUSAN FURTNEY, MPH, FACHE
LISA S. GERMAIN
BEA GONZÁLEZ
MARK S. HALL
DR. WARREN HILTON
JOSEPH LAZZARO, CFP®, CLU®
ANGELA LEE*
LEYLA Z. MORGILLO, CFP®
DUANE B. OWENS
H. DOUGLAS PINCKNEY*
REBECCA BRONFEIN RAPHAEL**
KEVIN E. SCHWAB
MARTIN A. SCHWAB, ESQ.
KATHLEEN L. WIESE
GENERAL COUNSEL
MARY ANNE CODY, ESQ.
