While the Gifford Foundation has a strong commitment to Community Grantmaking and its support of non-profits in our community, the Foundation also has a deeply rooted interest in the inner city neighborhoods in Syracuse, but more specifically the Southside and Near Westside. Through its neighborhood initiatiatives the Foundation has been able to demonstrate its use of funds as a catalyst to develop and build upon existing assets in these communities.  

It is the Foundation’s strategy to deepen as well as diversify participation, bringing a greater number of people from many organizations, both public and private, to the table. The Foundation serves as a “connector,” bringing together those poised for change by working with people who can drive that change.

To this end, any proposal focusing on neighborhood projects must indicate that the community who is to be impacted has been consulted and/or brought to the table.  If you are uncertain how to go about this, you can discuss your idea with staff at an Intake Meeting.

The Foundation's approach to this placed-based philanthropy has been highlighted at the national level, as Gifford's neighborhood work has been featured in a study from theChapin Hall Center for Children. Projects resulting from Foundation Initiatives have also been presented at regional and national conferences.