Scherman Foundation: Strengthening NY Communities

Todays New York City is a study in contrasts. It is experiencing significant population growth, driven primarily by new immigrants, while its economy, enriched by high-end services and creative intelligence-based industries, is on the upswing. As urban density has become a formula for cultural vitality and environmental sustainability, the city has become an unlikely poster child for green living. At the same time, economic, social, and political inequality has grown ever more dramatic. In response to these challenges and opportunities, the Foundations Strengthening New York Communities Program (SNYC) focuses on strengthening NYC’s low-income communities, which, despite challenges and hardships, are a consistent source of the city’s vitality, resilience, and success. The Foundation believes that organized and active neighborhood residents are in the best position to identify problems and solutions, and to create long-term social justice outcomes. The Foundation therefore funds efforts that mobilize residents to identify and advocate for community-initiated solutions and policy changes. These efforts can address changes on multiple levels, from local and citywide to state and federal. Current and potential grantees work in a variety of issue areas including sustainable economic and community development; employment opportunities; access to public benefits and income support; unique challenges faced by immigrant communities; equitable financial services; and criminal justice reform. The Foundation values groups that address multiple issues of neighborhood concern. The Foundation maintains its commitment to general operating support, especially to smaller neighborhood groups for whom the capacity to respond quickly and imaginatively to new opportunities and challenges is critical. For larger and policy-focused groups, and project-specific support may be appropriate. Grants average $35,000 over two-years. The foundation will accept new LOIs on a rolling basis throughout the year via the online application system.