The Giving Collective: Young New Yorkers powering local projects - The New York Community Trust

November 24, 2020 | By The New York Community Trust

The Giving Collective: Young New Yorkers powering local projects

HOME RUN: A NICE staff member and volunteer load boxes in Citi Field with food and household items donated by the New York Mets.

New Yorkers want a way to give back, learn about strong nonprofits, and harness the power of collective giving—in a way that fits into even the busiest schedule. So The Trust created the Giving Collective. This new giving circle invites those in their 20s, 30s, and 40s to tap the expertise of The New York Community Trust staff, join us on site visits (temporarily virtual) to a range of local nonprofits, and discuss giving strategies together.

The Giving Collective made a $10,000 grant this spring to New Immigrant Community Empowerment (NICE) to help clients through the COVID-19 pandemic. The Collective is currently planning future grants to environmental and justice organizations.

The Collective’s grant was enormously helpful to Jesus Aviles, who had lost his job as a restaurant worker and tried to transition to construction. He was helped by NICE and then began to volunteer at its food distribution and economic relief programs.

“As soon as the pandemic crisis started,” Aviles said, “NICE opened a food security program offering warm meals, veggies, and healthy essential foods. Our program is open for everyone regardless of race, religion, or immigration status. I personally sought out housing support with NICE. They helped me find a shelter where I’m currently staying and also offered me and our community virtual classes and workshops that support personal development.”