Nonprofits
The Community Foundation knows that strong nonprofits mean vibrant communities.
We work closely with the nonprofit organizations that serve Our Communities in New London, Windham and Tolland Counties so that they can more effectively meet their missions to aid, educate, improve and protect the lives of people and our natural environment throughout the region. We offer an array of workshops, convenings and grant opportunities that seek to improve an organization's management, operations, finances, governance and planning.
Grants
We award over $8 million in grants each year for a wide array of projects. Most are rooted in our Grantmaking Priorities and fall under one or more of several funding opportunities, including Regional Impact Grants, Environment and Animal Welfare Grants and Women & Girls Fund Grants
Convenings, Continuing Education, and Professional Development Opportunities
- Nonprofit Workshop Series at the Public Library of New London's Nonprofit Resource Center.
- Seminars and learning cohorts for nonprofit leaders on topics of general interest. Check our Events page for upcoming opportunities.
- Convening public and private partners to facilitate and support collaborative efforts around key issues in our region.
- Bonterra Jumpstart program, which provides nonprofits with fundraising software, one-on-one fundraising coaching, and group-based learning opportunities helping them raise more money, save time, and build long-term sustainability. (The current cohort for this program is in progress. Stay tuned for future opportunities!)
NPO Endowments
The Community Foundation manages endowments for more than 70 nonprofits, helping them generate a steady annual funding stream for their operations. Read more about how we can help Build Your Endowment.
Consultation
We are available for consultation with nonprofit staff, board members, or donors. Please contact Jennifer O'Brien, Program Director, if we can be of assistance to you.
Other Nonprofit Resources
- Public Library of New London: Nonprofit Resource Center
- Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut: Calendar of Regional Events (CORE)
- Northeastern Connecticut Chamber of Commerce: Calendar of Events
- The Alliance: Voice of Community NonprofitsCT's statewide nonprofit association
- Connecticut Council for Philanthropy
- National Council of Nonprofits
- Guidestar
- Alliance for Nonprofit Management
- CompassPoint
- TANGO
Helps nonprofits find affordable, high quality professional services - Third Sector New England
Executive Transitions and Search program helps nonprofits with leadership transitions - Nonprofit Quarterly
An independent nonprofit news organization for nonprofit leaders, foundations, educators, independent activists, and others in the civil sector- NPQ: Grassroots Fundraising Journal
Practical information to help you raise the money you need to build the community you believe in.
- NPQ: Grassroots Fundraising Journal
- Blue Avocado
An email newsletter created by and for community-based nonprofits - LiveStories
- Pro Bono Partnership
Provides legal services to nonprofits
"Tips"
- Joan Garry Consulting: "No Virginia, Development Directors Don’t Do ALL the Work"
If you are a nonprofit and would like to speak to our Program Director, contact Jennifer O'Brien at 860-442-3572.