The Gifford Foundation

Fostering growth, encouraging change.

 

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The Winter ’25 Newsletter

Investing in Youth Success

Supporting Our Community Since 1954

The Gifford Foundation is a private foundation dedicated to the stewardship of the funds entrusted to its care. The Foundation is committed to using its financial and human resources to build the capacity of individuals and organizations to enhance the quality of life for the community we serve.

Capacity Building

We help nonprofits build the skills and resources necessary to boost their impact.

Grants

Since our inception, we have given out over $45 million to CNY nonprofits.

A Network of Support

Our staff works to facilitate development and growth within our community.

How We Help

We recognize that there are many individuals and organizations who have a drive to make a difference within their communities. Unfortunately, a lack of resources and training can stand in the way of making these ideas a reality. For 70 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 $45 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

Winter 2024 Newsletter

Explore stories, interviews, and strategic resources for you and your organization in this latest issue of The Gifford Newsletter.

Support

Explore our resource and program directory to see which opportunity is the best fit for you or your organization.

Meet Our Team

Our team 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 70th 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

Interviews, profiles, and other spotlights on the innovative nonprofit leaders making a difference in our community.

The I-81 Project is a Civil Rights Issue

The I-81 Project is a Civil Rights Issue

One issue that the NYCLU has been heavily involved with is the debate surrounding the rebuilding and redesign of Syracuse’s I-81 overpass. CNY Chapter Director Yusuf Abdul-Qadir…

The Center: Building Collaboration Among Activists

The Center: Building Collaboration Among Activists

The Syracuse Center for Peace and Social Justice is an unusual type of nonprofit. Rather than lobbying for policy change or delivering services directly to the public, they focus on providing a home for other organizations in Syracuse.

Going Public: The Story Behind Ophelia’s Place

Going Public: The Story Behind Ophelia’s Place

Ophelia’s Place has been a resource for people living with eating disorders for over fifteen years. Formed in Syracuse, they have grown from a small family project to a multifaceted organization that has developed innovative ways to self-fund and leverage digital tools to expand their impact. Examining their history and development reveals important lessons not only about food and diet culture in America, but about how thoughtful community engagement by impassioned individuals can flourish into a large scale movement.

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