Convening

To better understand the needs of our communities, and champion pressing issues or emerging opportunities we often convene subject matter experts, nonprofit leaders, and philanthropic-minded donors. We also come together to celebrate one another and the work we accomplish in collaboration with our community partners.

FUNDERS’ TOURS

Over this last year, we moved from in-person tours to webinars. On March 31st, we held a virtual session to discuss the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare and public health. On June 30th, we held a second tour focused on Building Blocks for a Sustainable Community. On October 26th, we hosted a case study for supporting the arts with funders and creative leaders to discuss the impact arts and culture can have on urban centers and communities, specifically in New Bedford and Fall River.

SUMMER’S LAST BLAST

Every year we hold our annual Summer’s Last Blast celebration at the very beginning of September. Last year, we were able to gather in person with our community friends and partners to celebrate the work we’ve done together. More than 400 guests joined us for a delightful evening under a beautiful and starry night in South Dartmouth.

PRESIDENT JOHN VASCONCELLOS RETIREMENT

In December, we said goodbye to retiring President, John Vasconcellos. Thanks to his dedication and leadership, we have a Community Foundation that our region deserves, that attracts philanthropy, and elevates the needs and opportunities within our community. John is responsible for leaving the organization well-positioned for the future and continuing our mission under Leonard M. Lee, our new President and CEO.

DONOR STORY: Dr. Gilbert and Timmy Shapiro

Gilbert and Timmy Shapiro moved to the South Coast area in the early 1960’s, to set up Dr. Shapiro’s Orthopedic practice. Given he was in the medical field, Dr. Shapiro was naturally focused on being helpful to community members, especially historically excluded populations. He often found that many of his patients suffering from industrial accidents struggled to cover their expenses and take care of themselves when out of work.

LIFELONG ANNUAL FUND SUPPORTERS

So, when he learned that a Community Foundation was being formed in 1995, he and his wife saw an opportunity to do more for their neighbors and get involved. The community-minded Shapiro’s generous support to institutions and causes has long been felt in Massachusetts and the Community Foundation counts itself as extremely fortunate to have had their involvement in the organization since its very inception, including Dr. Shapiro being a past Board Chair. Timmy is no longer with us, but her generosity lives on in Gilbert and their children. Commented Dr. Shapiro, “The Community Foundation is supporting organizations in this region to help good, hard-working people who deserve whatever assistance we can provide. It is simply the right thing to do and why our family has enthusiastically donated annually to help the Foundation successfully carry out its mission year in and year out.”