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 download this one page document with CGC info and dates.
Why Join? | Commitment | Key Dates | How to Apply
Why Join the Community Grants Circle?
Connect with like-minded Hope for New York supporters and get a chance to:
- Review grant applications and learn about our grantmaking and due diligence process
- Visit three affiliate sites to meet leaders and understand programs
- Nominate an affiliate to present at Pitch Night (which ends CGC) and receive extra funding
What is the Commitment Level?
CGC is the most rewarding for participants who are interested in:
- Supporting HFNY and wants to understand the stewardship of resources and time
- Understanding the work of our affiliate partners and the needs of our city
- Learning how to evaluate and assess nonprofit effectiveness to provide feedback
- Committing focus, energy, and effort toward all program elements for (3) months: approximately 2 hours a week between April and June. Includes several meetings, plus time spent reviewing grant materials and preparing for site visits.
- Site visits will be (1) hour each and will mostly be scheduled on weekday evenings (some will be on weekday or Saturday mornings). Each participant will choose (3) affiliate site visits from their assigned region based on interest and the times that work for them.
Key Dates for 2024
All CGC members should definitely commit to both (3) Affiliate Site Visits and the Team Meeting.
| Meeting Type | Date/Time | Location |
| CGC Kick-Off | Wed. April 10 at 6:30 pm | In person at the HFNY office |
| (3) Affiliate Site Visits |
Mid-April to mid-May; Time varies |
Primarily in person |
| Regional Team Meeting | Sat. May 18 at 10:00 am | In person at the HFNY office |
| HFNY Pitch Night | Thurs. June 6 at 6:30 pm | In person at W83 Ministry Center |
How to Apply for CGC 2024
Each year, the CGC application process opens in the winter season, and the program runs through spring.
Are you ready to the apply to our CGC program? Whether you're new to CGC or an alum, please fill out our application by Monday, March 11.
Once members are accepted into the CGC program, they will be put into one of three regions based on neighborhood and/or church affiliation. Affiliate site visits will also be connected to specific regions. We will share more details!
Have questions? Email info@hfny.org