Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1538244
www.wbjournal.com Worcester Business Journal Giving Guide 2025 5 T his year has brought significant challenges to many of our local nonprofit organizations. Shifting federal policies and a reduction in government funding have created new pressures across the sector, from staffing uncertainty to program sustainability. Across the county, nonprofits are working tirelessly to meet rising community needs while navigating these changes. At Greater Worcester Community Foundation, we remain unwavering in our commitment to our nonprofit partners and the people they serve. As a public, charitable, and place-based foundation, our role is to inspire greater giving and create greater impact, all in support of a vision where everyone in Worcester County can prosper and thrive. While we cannot replace government funding, we are focused on helping nonprofits build capacity, strengthen operations, and foster long-term resilience. In response to the current environment, we recently committed $3 million in new funding to bolster nonprofit resiliency across the region. This investment, launched under the banner Facing Change, includes funding from the City of Worcester to support smaller, Worcester-based organizations that serve marginalized populations, as well as funding from the Foundation's Community Leadership Fund, discretionary endowments, and funding from key philanthropic partners such as the Barr Foundation and the Klarman Family Foundation. This new effort will support and expand our suite of capacity-building programs through the Nonprofit Support Center, including funding to support organizational effectiveness, mergers and shared services, and general operations. We are also offering a series of workshops and training to support nonprofits and their boards, including our new Nourishing Tomorrow's Leaders program focused on emerging board members from underrepresented communities. Lastly, we look forward to announcing a new Nonprofit Loan Fund that will help organizations bridge financial gaps while undertaking reimbursable government grants. While the landscape ahead remains uncertain, we are committed to standing beside nonprofits. They are passionate about shaping a stronger and more equitable Worcester County, and we are grateful to support them in that work. n With appreciation, Pete Dunn President and CEO Greater Worcester Community Foundation A t United Way of Central Massachusetts, we believe real change is possible and it always starts with people. Over the past few years, I've seen our community rise together through challenges, uncertainty, and incredible opportunities. What continues to inspire me is this truth: when we collaborate, when we act boldly and give generously, we don't just meet needs, we change outcomes. Our work is transforming worldwide. We've embraced a brand refresh, a new website, and a clear focus on four pillars: Youth Opportunity, Healthy Community, Financial Security, and Community Resilience. These aren't just categories; they are our commitments to building a stronger, more equitable Central Massachusetts. We've prioritized impact by investing in programs that deliver measurable, lasting results. We've maintained relevance by listening deeply to the community and adapting quickly. And we've worked toward sustainability, because solving problems long-term requires more than one-time solutions. Thanks to transformational giving—like the $5 million gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, we've seen what's possible when unrestricted funding meets unwavering community spirit. At our Worcester Community Challenge Showcase this year, 14 local nonprofits shared what that kind of trust allowed them to do: launch new programs, expand access, invest in people, and dream bigger for the greater Worcester region. But the need is still great. Costs are rising. Support is uncertain. And too many of our neighbors, children, seniors, and families, are navigating crisis without a safety net. That's why I'm asking you to join us. Be part of this movement. Sponsor our work, volunteer with your team, or simply reach out and ask, "How can I help?" We've never had more clarity about what's needed and never more resolve to make it happen. But we can't do it alone. Your support ensures that we continue connecting people to resources, good ideas to real action, and improving the community together. I've always said United Way is at its best when we serve as the bridge between challenge and solution, between hope and progress. So please, join us. Give back. Get involved. Take action. Let's continue building a community that reflects the best of who we are: compassionate, collaborative, and committed to lifting everyone. n With gratitude, Tim Garvin President & CEO United Way Central Massachusetts Dear friends United is the Way To participate in next year's Giving Guide contact, WBJ general manager, Kris Prosser at 508.755.8004 ext. 286 or kprosser@wbjournal.com