Banner Photo Credit: Daylight Blue Media
The Fall 2020 Newsletter
Embracing Disruption
Supporting Our Community Since 1954
Through initiatives, grantmaking and neighborhood engagement the Gifford Foundation strengthens community assets in order to improve the quality of life for the residents of Central New York.
Capacity Building
We help nonprofits build the skills and resources necessary to boost their impact.
Grants
Since our inception, we have given out over $44 million to CNY nonprofits.
A Network of Support
Our staff works to facilitate development and growth within our community.

Our Vision
We recognize that there are many individuals and organizations who have a drive to make a difference within their community. Unfortunately, a lack of resources and training can stand in the way of making these ideas a reality. For over sixty years, the Gifford Foundation has provided the grants and leadership training necessary to facilitate broad, community based change across CNY. Our capacity building initiatives help raise the bar for what’s possible.
Over $44 million in grants awarded
Grantmaking is traditionally reactive, but in line with our belief in community engagement we emphasize a personal approach. By developing a relationship with each grantee, we are better able to help them become strong and durable forces within our community.
Grants awarded since our founding
Engage With Us
Fall 2020 Newsletter
Information
Resources about capacity building and grantmaking have been updated to reflect the latest developments.
Meet Our Team
Our new directory allows you to instantly connect with and learn about our team members.
Read Our History
Take a look back at the origins of The Gifford Foundation as we celebrate our 66th year.
Sign Up For Our Mailings
Stay informed about events, grants, workshops, and more by joining our email list.
Socialize With Us
Are you connected with us on all of our platforms?
Featured Stories
Our stories provide increased access and allow our community to see what we’ve been up to and the type of work that we support.
Quick on Your Feet: Why Nonprofits Need to Adapt
“If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that the rate of things coming at you is increasing,” says Jennifer Bonnett – President and CEO of the Nonprofit Lifecycles Institute. “Our ability to be nimble is key.” The coronavirus pandemic, a rapidly changing economy, and unprecedented tech advances are just some of the disruptions that are forcing nonprofits to update their operations.
Announcing the Digital Collaboration Workshop
The Digital Collaboration Workshop The Gifford Foundation is working with The CNY Community Foundation, Mindflower Studio, and MXD Arts to provide a virtual workshop series and consultant services to the CNY nonprofit community. The goal is to improve board...
NTL Hosts its First 2020 Session
On Sept. 16th at 5:30 pm, a group of 21 Syracuse residents gathered in the black box theater at SALTspace on the City’s West Side. Selected from more than 70 applicants, they represent this year’s NTL cohort. This would mark the first session of a nine week course designed to prepare individuals to be effective board members and to understand the importance of diversity within nonprofit leadership.
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