Hope for New York’s Community Grants Circle (CGC) is an annual invitation-only program for select supporters to provide them an inside look into our grantmaking process!
Started in 2014, CGC allows members the opportunity to evaluate our grant-receiving affiliates and understand how we allocate resources that strengthen them through ongoing funds, volunteer support, leadership training, and collaboration opportunities.
>> You can also view this flyer with CGC info and dates.
Why Join? | Commitment | Changes | Key Dates | How to Apply
Why Join the Community Grants Circle?
Connect with like-minded Hope for New York supporters and get a meaningful chance to:
- Review grant applications to learn about our grantmaking and due diligence process
- Visit 3 affiliate sites to meet leaders and understand programs
- Nominate affiliates to present at HFNY Pitch Night and receive extra funding
What Is the Commitment Level?
Commit focus, energy, and effort toward all program elements for 2 months:
- Invest approximately 2 hours a week between April and June for several meetings (see Key Dates for 2025 below), plus time spent reviewing grant materials and preparing for site visits.
- Visit affiliate sites for 1 hour each, which will mostly be scheduled on weekday evenings (some weekday/Saturday mornings). Each participant will choose 3 affiliate site visits from their assigned region based on interest and times.
Changes We're Making in 2025
Based on feedback from past CGC alumni, we're excited to share the following new additions to the program:
- Bring your children (age 16+) to select affiliate site visits to learn about mercy and justice in our city.
- We will have a fourth Regional Team, which means four affiliates will present at Pitch Night for the first time!
- We will have more opportunities for member connections within your region. WhatsApp group messages will be set up for meaningful connections and to inform you along the way.
Key Dates for 2025
All CGC members should commit to 3 affiliate site visits and the Regional Team Meetings.
| Meeting Type | Date/Time | Location |
| CGC Kick-Off | Tues. April 8 at 6:30 pm | In person Location: HFNY office |
| 3 Affiliate Site Visits |
Mid-April to mid-May; Times vary |
Primarily in person |
| Regional Team Meetings | Sat. May 17 at 10:00 am | In person Location: HFNY office |
| HFNY Pitch Night | Thurs. June 5 at 6:30 pm | In person Location: TBD |
How to Apply for CGC 2025
Each year, the CGC application opens in the winter, and the program runs through spring.
Are you ready to apply for our CGC program? Whether you're new to CGC or an alum, please fill out our application by Friday, March 7.
Once members are accepted into the CGC program, they will be assigned to one of four regions based on neighborhood and/or church affiliation. Affiliate site visit options will also be connected to specific regions. We will share more details!
Have questions? Email info@hfny.org