Stories

Since its inception in 2001, Community Works has provided more than $1 million in grants to more than 50 different groups in the Hudson Valley. This year, campaign chair John Bradley said, donations to Community Works are more vital than ever. “This is an unprecedented time in our country and our region,” said Bradley, Director of Vassar’s Urban Education Initiative. “The twin pandemics of COVID-19 and social injustice have placed a lot of stress on our community, so it’s more important than ever for us to do our part.”

Bradley noted that while Vassar is facing its own financial hardships as a result of the pandemic, its employees have been spared the worst effects of the crisis. “Many people in our community are facing far more serious losses than many of us,” he said, “and while we haven’t been as connected physically to the surrounding community, it’s important for us to make a statement that our commitment is still there.”

Agencies and organizations that receive donations from the Community Works campaign are chosen every year by a committee of Vassar employees. This year’s recipients offer a range of services, including emergency food and housing assistance and emotional and financial support for many of our community’s most vulnerable citizens.

We focus on local nonprofit organizations that are mostly small to medium sized. They must have a 501(c)(3) legal status and agree to adhere to Vassar College’s nondiscrimination policy. Local programs of statewide or national organizations are not eligible for a grant, because we cannot guarantee that Community Works funds will be spent in the Hudson Valley.

For a complete list of this year’s Community Works recipients and information on how to make a donation, go to https://communityworks.vassar.edu/. The deadline for making a donation through payroll deduction is December 15.