In the words of legendary Tina Turner, ‘what’s love got to do with it?’ I say everything. Love is a superpower. It fuels resilience, fosters connection, and drives change. Yet, in times of uncertainty and division, love can feel like the hardest choice to make. It is easier to retreat to our corners, to disengage when the challenges seem overwhelming. But real, transformative change — change that strengthens our communities and improves lives — requires the kind of love that takes courage, compassion and an emphasis on community.
We believe this superpower is what will sustain us through the challenges ahead because we are united by our shared commitment that love is stronger than fear. Across the country and right here in Central New York, nonprofits are facing an increasingly difficult landscape. Shifting policies and economic pressures have created a climate of financial uncertainty, and pauses of federal funding have led them to rethink sustainability. And yet, these very organizations are the backbone of our communities — keeping families housed, feeding children, supporting mental health, enriching our lives through the arts, and ensuring that Central New York remains a place we are proud to
call home. Ensuring that our region’s nonprofit sector remains strong is not the responsibility of a few — it is a collective effort that requires all of us to lean in with love, commitment, and action.
For nearly 100 years, the Community Foundation has served as an anchor for those who care deeply about this community and its people. We have seen what is possible when we come together across differences to create lasting progress. And this moment is no different. You may be wondering how best to show up for your neighbors and loved ones.
HERE ARE A FEW WAYS YOU CAN TAKE ACTION:
TALK TO THE NONPROFITS YOU CARE ABOUT
A simple conversation can go a long way. Check in with the organizations you care about and ask what they need most right now. Understanding their needs will help you align your giving more effectively.
INVEST IN NONPROFIT RESILIENCE
Beyond financial support, nonprofits need strong operations and leadership. Consider directing some of your giving to capacity-building efforts, such as leadership training, technology upgrades and strategic planning support.
EXPLORE CORPORATE AND BUSINESS GIVING
Businesses play an important role in philanthropy. If you have corporate connections, consider advocating for corporate giving programs, sponsorships or employee matching gifts that can amplify nonprofit funding.
INCREASE YOUR SUPPORT — AND MAKE IT FLEXIBLE
If you are in a position to give, consider increasing your contributions or committing to multi-year funding. Unrestricted giving — funding that allows nonprofits to use dollars where they are needed most — is particularly valuable during times of uncertainty. You can also consult a professional advisor to maximize the tax benefits of your charitable giving.
ENCOURAGE YOUR PEERS TO GIVE
Your influence as a donor matters. Share your experiences with friends, colleagues, and business leaders, and encourage them to support CNY’s nonprofit sector. Collective philanthropy creates a ripple effect that strengthens our communities.
STAY ENGAGED AND ADVOCATE
Your voice matters. Engage in conversations about the value of nonprofit work, advocate for policies that strengthen the sector, and stay informed about the challenges and opportunities facing philanthropy in CNY.
MELANIE LITTLEJOHN President and CEO
GIVING MATTERS
SUPPORTING CRISIS RESPONSE
Below are some suggestions for how you can help:
ASK ORGANIZATIONS WHAT THEY NEED.
Get to know the staff at the organizations you care about. Talk with them. They know best where the gaps are and what challenges are on the horizon.
GIVE EARLIER IN THE YEAR.
Donors often concentrate their charitable contributions during the last quarter of the calendar year because it naturally aligns with holidays that inspire the giving spirit. But in times of crisis, urgency is key.
ALLOW YOUR GIFT TO BE USED WHERE IT’S NEEDED MOST.
The less restrictive your contribution is, the more impact it can have, especially during a crisis.
In times of crisis, nonprofit organizations are some of the first to respond. Whether it be a natural or human-generated disaster, charities step in to serve both the immediate and long-term needs of those affected. While governmental agencies like the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will direct disaster relief funding, they will often contract with nonprofits in order to provide required services. It is common for governments to contract with nonprofits in non-crisis times as well. Additionally, nonprofits are uniquely positioned to inspire, accept and deploy charitable donations from people and organizations that want to help. In short, nonprofits are a critical element of crisis response.
It is the purpose and function of the nonprofit sector to bridge the gap between the government and the needs of the public, both on a regular basis to foster a civil society and in response to disaster.
Under normal circumstances, nonprofits rely on various revenue streams: grants from government sources, charitable contributions, earned income like ticket sales, gift shop sales and service fees, and grants from foundations and other funders. Depending on their mission and organizational structure, a nonprofit may count on certain funding streams more than others.
Whether due to a crisis event or a dramatic decrease in their funding sources, nonprofits will appeal to individual and corporate
donors to help them sustain their mission and continue their work. During periods of funding uncertainty or disaster, you can help nonprofits weather the storm.
For additional guidance around how you can give in a meaningful and responsive way during times of crisis, please visit cnycf.org/ disaster, email us at donorsupport@cnycf.org or call us at 315.422.9538 and ask to speak to a member of the Philanthropic Services Team.
TWO-THIRDS OF U.S. NONPROFITS RECEIVED AT LEAST ONE GOVERNMENT GRANT OR CONTRACT
In 2023, two-thirds of U.S. nonprofits from a nationally representative panel study received at least one government grant or contract, resulting in the average nonprofit generating one-quarter of its revenue from government sources that year.
(URBAN INSTITUTE, 2024)
Learn more about how the Community Foundation supports nonprofits through our Community Grant program in Granting Matters on page 9.
Pictured: Huntington Family Centers, the recipient of a grant from our COVID-19 Community Support Fund.
Photo Credit: Ben Cleeton
ROSEMARY BUCCI
DONOR STORY
A PIONEER FOR WOMEN
Over $1.5 Million Bequest Will Provide Transformative Support for Future Generations in Baldwinsville and Beyond
Born and raised in Baldwinsville, NY as a daughter of a mechanic, Rosemary Bucci was a woman who was fiercely committed to turning her community into a place where everyone has an equal opportunity to work, play and thrive.
Her dedication extended beyond words — she actively shaped her community through leadership and service, devoting much of her free time to volunteering and sitting on the boards of organizations like CNY Waterways, The Baldwinsville Community Scholarship Foundation, Syracuse Home Association Board, Zonta Club of Syracuse, McHarrie Towne Board, Baldwinsville Center for the Arts and the Onondaga County Bar Association.
Bucci’s commitment to learning and professional growth was evident early on. After graduating from Baldwinsville Academy, she earned a scholarship to attend Central City Business Institute, where she pursued an associate’s degree in occupational studies. The two-year business college in downtown Syracuse offered degree programs in accounting, business management, court reporting, legal administrative studies and more, before closing in the late 1990s.
In addition, Bucci devoted 30 years of service to the Baldwinsville Rotary Club, and in 1994, became the first woman president after Rotary International began allowing women to join the organization in 1989. She also sponsored The Baldwinsville Rotary Club’s Anything That Floats contest, as part of Seneca River Days, for many years.
“Rosemary was a longtime and vibrant member of our club and, despite her busy work schedule, she managed to carve out
time to help with many of the events we put on. I specifically remember that she was a wonderful duck ticket salesperson! She also attended and participated in our weekly meetings, making our speakers feel welcome. She is missed,” said Ann Smiley, past Baldwinsville Rotary president and current member.
As for Bucci’s career, a few years of clerical work at a law firm in Baldwinsville sparked her interest in pursuing a law degree of her own. She was admitted to Syracuse University College of Law shortly thereafter in the early 1960s — a significant achievement at a time when many prestigious institutions still excluded women.
It was there, during her time at Syracuse University, that she was admitted to the Justinian Honorary Law Society and worked as the editor in chief of Syracuse University’s Law School Review. Additionally, she was active in the community safety seminar, designed to help make law enforcement aware of changes in the law. She graduated with honors in 1964.
But Bucci’s past was not without obstacles. Women had long faced discrimination in education and the workplace. It wasn’t until June 23, 1972 that Congress passed Title IX of the Education Amendments, barring gender discrimination in education programs and activities offered by entities receiving federal financial assistance. Its protections would help ensure equal access and treatment for women and girls, but those barriers persisted throughout Bucci’s education and the early years of her career.
As one of only two women in her graduating law class, she faced scrutiny and was often picked on. In an interview with the Syracuse University College of Law, she stated, “Some people didn’t take me too seriously. They said I was there to find a husband, or that someday I would be their secretary.” The teasing only lasted until grades were released — when she had proven herself as one of the top students in her class.
Soon after joining the university, Bucci met June Lockwood, a woman studying law in the class above her. The two quickly became close friends and it was not long before both
women set up shop — opening a law firm in 1963 just before Bucci’s admittance to the bar in 1964. The pair worked alongside one another as partners for 42 years.
A fellow student of hers from law school once said, “In the ‘70s, there weren’t many women lawyers, period. But Rosemary, she was dedicated, hardworking and a very well respected lawyer in the community.”
And he was right. It was evident that Bucci was a strong advocate for her clients, earning widespread respect for her dedication and expertise. From the beginning of her career, she was dedicated to advocating for women’s rights, taking on divorce cases that she noted were painfully unfair to women. “Mothers who had stayed home to raise children had no financial resources to seek legal help in a divorce,” she once said. “I could not sit back and see this happen.”
Her achievements were numerous and widely recognized throughout her career. In 1993, Bucci was awarded Woman of the Year for Community Service by the Chamber of Commerce, and later celebrated the milestone of 50 years of admittance to the bar.
Bucci worked hard her entire life to accumulate her wealth to ensure she could leave behind a legacy that would foster the continuation of her impact beyond her lifetime. When she passed away in 2022, her will directed a bequest to the Community Foundation to create the Bucci-Deserio Family Foundation. The legacy fund supports charitable organizations in the Village of Baldwinsville and the Towns of Van Buren and Lysander—the place Rosemary Bucci held closest to her heart.
The nature of Bucci’s bequest underscores the profound impact individuals can have on places they call home, in life and as part of a lasting legacy. Like so many others, this gift will provide enduring and transformative support for future generations in the community of Baldwinsville and beyond.
for 50 years of admission to
Pictured Above: Rosemary Bucci stands with colleagues at the OCBA 50-Year Luncheon, where they were honored
the bar.
Photo provided by OCBA has been enhanced with AI.
COMMUNITY IMPACT
In December and March, our board of directors approved $763,962 in grants to 26 nonprofits through our Community Grantmaking program.
EDUCATION
CNY ARTS
Hire a consultant to host a series of internal and external DEIA workshops
1ST AMENDMENT1ST VOTE
Expand governmental leadership programming for young girls
SYRACUSE CHAMBER ORCHESTRA
Purchase music and cover the travel expenses of musicians
CORNELL COOPERATIVE EXTENSION OF ONONDAGA COUNTY
Host the 2025 Onondaga County Parks 4-H Summer Camp for environmental education
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
$30,500 $6,671
CLEAR PATH FOR VETERANS
Expand the Warriors Working workforce development program for veterans
HEALTHCARE
PUBLIC & SOCIETAL BENEFIT ARTS, CULTURE & HUMANITIES
$10,000
AFICA
Launch a communityand farmer-owned cooperative food market
VOLUNTEER LAWYERS PROJECT OF CNY
Expand legal service offerings for minorityowned businesses
MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY (THE MOST)
Make accessibility upgrades and additions
PLANNED PARENTHOOD OF CENTRAL AND WESTERN NEW YORK
Purchase three HVACs to help reduce energy costs
CROUSE HEALTH FOUNDATION
Expand the Visit to Hospital-Land educational program for children
ENVIRONMENT & ANIMALS
TOOMEY RESIDENTIAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICES
Install a roll-in accessible shower for the Children’s Community Residence
Expand job readiness and employment opportunities for formerly incarcerated women
Purchase in-home automatic medication dispensers for adults with developmental disabilities
Develop SPIT for CURE, a low-cost saliva screening test for prostate and breast cancer
AURORA OF CNY
ONTECH CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL PARTNERS IN LEARNING
Launch a psychologybased summer art enrichment program
SPAY AND NEUTER SYRACUSE
Purchase equipment to accommodate growing need for low-cost spay and neutering services
$13,258
KITCHEN LITERACY PROJECT
Expand the Kitchen Rx culinary education program for adults with chronic illnesses and their caregivers
Facilitate the fifth year of the Diversity in Early Education & Care program
HOUSE OF PSALMS 23 UPSTATE FOUNDATION ADVOCATES CENTRAL CURRENT BLUEPRINT 15, INC.
Enhance Project YES, an initiative that provides vocational training and peer support for youth with hearing loss
$15,927
SYRACUSE PARKS CONSERVANCY
Purchase grow tables for the Onondaga Park Greenhouse
Develop Fayette Park Manor as an affordable rental facility for seniors in Earlville, NY Expand Southside Connections for youth skill building
MEALS ON WHEELS OF SYRACUSE
Launch a volunteer recruitment and retention program
CASITA CULTURAL CENTER
Expand a youth afterschool program
PIECING TOGETHER DOLLARS FOR DECISIONS
As a supporter and funding partner of our nonprofit community, we are well aware of the strain on financial resources that organizations are feeling, particularly in recent years. The growing needs in our community continue to surpass our grantmaking capacity, making our decisions increasingly challenging and disappointingly forcing us to decline projects from organizations driving transformational change. The average number of applications we receive in a given Community Grant round has increased by almost 110% from 2019 to 2024. And because of the increase in demand, the approval rate for our Community Grant program within the same timeframe dropped from 79% to 40%.
We want to be transparent with our constituencies about this trend and provide some added context for consideration.
For donors who are looking to support nonprofits through our Community Grant program, it’s important to remember that flexibility is key. Each Community Grant is made up of contributions from multiple funds, like pieces of a puzzle. If we only have corner pieces, we cannot complete the task. Often, our Community Grants are part of a larger project budget that depends on support
Our Community Grants are not made from one pot of unrestricted money, but rather from 77 different funds, the vast majority of which are designated for a specific purpose and/or geographic location. Some fund purposes are broader than others, like “youth” vs. “youth with kidney ailments.”
We are committed to stewarding and honoring the intent of the dollars that our donors entrust with us to the fullest extent possible. Therefore, a key part of the decision-making process for our Community Grant program involves aligning and matching donor intent with the projects we receive applications for.
Our staff is highly knowledgeable about our available funds and their specific purposes, so it’s imperative for nonprofit representatives to talk with a member of our Community Investment team about their project ideas prior to submitting an application. In fact, this step has proven to be so critical that it is now a requirement to apply. As always, while guidance does not guarantee a positive funding outcome, it significantly increases the organization’s chances of success.
from other funders, each with their own set of funding guidelines and restrictions. This makes it even harder to compile all of the pieces required to fulfill each nonprofit’s request.
Our community impact is powered by the collective generosity of many individuals over many decades. It is our responsibility to help
our donors and grantees make the most of every gift. More flexible funds will improve our ability to respond to changing community needs and increased demand for support.
When it comes to planning for impact, we’re here to help you choose broad giving categories that will position your charitable contributions to make the greatest difference.
Pictured: Deaf New American’s new tractor, supported by a recent Community Grant.
NEW IMPACT INVESTMENT
In December, our local impact investing program closed on a $450,000 deal to secure a low-interest line of credit for the Dunbar Association. The funding will allow the organization to replace its boiler, HVAC system and roof until funding from local and state grants are received. This project is receiving funding from a Certificate of Deposit (CD) the Community Foundation has established in partnership with Pathfinder Bank.
In January, our LeadSafeCNY initiative secured a $400,000 grant from Mother Cabrini Health Foundation to support the LeadSafeCNY Coalition’s outreach and community engagement efforts to fight childhood lead poisoning. Led by LaToya Jones, the LeadSafeCNY Coalition brings together healthcare, housing, education and government sectors, working together to ensure a safer community. The grant will fund outreach, advocacy and the hiring of a social care navigator to support residents.
The Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, which awards grants to meet the unmet healthcare needs of individuals, families and communities throughout New York State, chose to support LeadSafeCNY for its potential to significantly improve the health and safety of children in Syracuse. Over the past five years, the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation has provided more than $1 million in support of LeadSafeCNY.
LEADSAFECNY.ORG
Over the past six months, our staff worked diligently to facilitate the implementation of a new cloud-based scholarship software system, designed to simplify the application process, improve fairness and enhance our engagement with all stakeholders in the community. The new system provides a streamlined application process to better serve students and scholarship committees.
CNYCF.ORG/SCHOLARSHIPINFO
FINDING A HOME OF HEALING & HOPE
Imagine a world where no one has to endure the stress of medical treatment alone. A place where patients and caregivers can find rest, support and a sense of community during some of life’s most challenging moments. This is the vision of Sarah’s Guest House — a haven of comfort, providing free lodging, meals and transportation for those receiving medical care in Central New York. A vision that the organization has made a reality for hundreds of patients and families each year.
For Shelly, Sarah’s Guest House has been more than just a place to stay — it has been a lifeline. Born and raised in Onondaga County, Shelly’s journey took her across New York, but she never expected to return under such difficult circumstances. In October 2023, she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer, requiring frequent trips to Upstate Medical for chemotherapy and radiation. The exhausting treatments left her too weak to make the long drive back home to Cayuga County.
“I used to be an Uber driver and was in a band, and I could go 36 hours without sleep,” Shelly shared. “But after chemo, I’m so exhausted I can sleep for 15 hours straight. I never thought I’d struggle to drive, but it became impossible.”
That’s when Sarah’s Guest House stepped in. With warm meals, a safe place to rest and even transportation to and from appointments, Shelly found not only relief but also a community.
Sarah’s Guest House
“I was struggling to afford gas, and I didn’t know how I was going to do this,” she recalled. “When Sarah’s Guest House opened their doors to me, a huge burden was lifted. It was the biggest gift.”
Shelly’s connection to Sarah’s Guest House goes beyond just the practical support. She found camaraderie among the volunteers and other guests — many facing similar struggles.
“I’ve met people with the same type of cancer as me. We share stories, fears, and hope,” she said. “Even if someone isn’t going through the exact same thing, there’s a shared understanding here. That makes all the difference.”
Executive Director of Sarah’s Guest House, David Haas, emphasized the importance of this connection. “Medical challenges don’t just impact physical health; they take an emotional and mental toll. We strive to provide a home, not just a house — somewhere our guests feel supported in every way.”
With the help of a $50,000 grant from our Community Fund, Sarah’s Guest House renovated a newly gifted wing from Most Holy Rosary Parish, expanding accessibility and capacity so more people like Shelly can find the refuge they need. The renovations doubled the house’s size, growing from 11 to 22 bedrooms, including four fully accessible rooms with accompanying bathrooms. Additional updates included a new elevator and upgraded common spaces designed to foster even stronger community connections.
“I’m truly impressed with how safe I feel here,” Shelly said. “There are three laundry rooms, three kitchens, and private bathrooms — everything is designed so guests can live with dignity and independence.”
The impact of Sarah’s Guest House goes beyond Shelly’s experience. Each year, the home welcomes hundreds of patients and caregivers who might otherwise struggle to find transportation to appointments or afford a place to stay. The organization has witnessed a growing demand as more patients travel here for the advanced care offered at local hospitals and medical institutions. With its expanded capacity, Sarah’s Guest House remains committed to growing as a vital resource for Central New York.
For Shelly, this support means everything. “If Sarah’s Guest House wasn’t here, I don’t know what I would’ve done. I would have had to move my treatment to a different hospital, away from the doctors I trust, away from my mother who’s in an assisted living facility nearby.”
Sarah’s Guest House ensures that no one has to make those difficult choices alone. The path forward is clear: by working together, the Central New York community can continue to provide healing, hope and home to those in need.
Pictured: Shelly sits in the living room located in the renovated wing of Sarah’s Guest House.
UPCOMING DEADLINES & EVENTS
GRANT DEADLINES
OPEN: APRIL 14, 2025 / CLOSE: JUNE 13, 2025
Women’s Fund
OPEN: APRIL 28, 2025 / CLOSE: JUNE 27, 2025
Black Equity & Excellence Fund
OPEN: MAY 19, 2025 / CLOSE: JULY 18, 2025
Oswego County Community Foundation
OPEN: JUNE 2, 2025 / CLOSE: AUGUST 4, 2025
The Leadership Classroom (TLC)
OPEN: JUNE 27, 2025 / CLOSE: AUGUST 29, 2025
Community Grants
Applicants will receive notifications of grant decisions between November 19 - December 17
To view the application open and close dates for each grant opportunity, please visit: cnycf.org/deadlines
EVENTS
AUGUST 15, 2025 | 5:00PM – 7:00PM
Black Equity & Excellence Fund Social
OCTOBER 30, 2025 | 12:00PM – 2:00PM
Annual Continuing Education Seminar: Family Wealth – A Hard Look at the Soft Issues
Featuring Susan Schoenfeld, JD, LL.M., CPA, MBA
NOVEMBER 13, 2025 | 6:00PM – 8:00PM
The Leadership Classroom (TLC) Grassroots Award Dinner
To view upcoming events as they are added, please visit: CNYCF.ORG/EVENTS
