NextGen Rochester is a peer-led form of philanthropy. The members are the next generation of citizens who make “giving back” part of their lives through leadership, friendship, and philanthropy.
This group is comprised of a cross section of the community (typically age 21-45) who find value in grant-making to local charitable causes and addressing community needs. It is the intention of NextGen Rochester to not only build assets, but compassion, knowledge, and community engagement.
Each NextGen Rochester member contributes to a fund that makes grants to nonprofits selected by the members. By pooling their contributions together, emerging leaders are given a seat of influence in Greater Rochester, and are able to create an impact far greater than each could individually.
To learn more about NextGen, read the NextGen Roch General Info sheet. You can also learn more about NextGen Rochester by joining its group on Facebook or by following its activities on Twitter.
NextGen Rochester
500 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14607
(585) 271-4100, NextGenRoc@racf.org
NextGen Rochester Brochure
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NextGen Rochester?
NextGen Rochester is what is called a giving circle—an active team approach to philanthropy. Giving circles are created by groups of people with like interests or backgrounds. In this case, younger, less established Rochesterians that want to make a positive impact on our community.
How does it work?
Most simply, members contribute money to a fund and through research and education, make grants utilizing those contributions.
To what areas are the grants made?
The NextGen membership is surveyed annually to identify interest areas. Funding priorities change from year to year.
Who decides which charitable organizations receive grants?
The grants are awarded through a competitive grantmaking process. After an initial statement of interest submitted by nonprofits in the community, a small group of nonprofits will be invited by the Grants Committee, based on the interests of the membership, to submit a full proposal and presentation to the membership. The final decision will be made by the voting membership of NextGen Rochester.
What is a “Voting Member”
By contributing to the NextGen Rochester Fund through their NextGen membership dues, young professionals are given a voice in NextGen’s grant distribution. To become a voting member, individuals must contribute a minimum of $100 prior to NextGen Rochester’s Annual Meeting. First-time members of NextGen are allowed to pro-rate their first year’s membership by $25/quarter. Only members that join by August 31 will be eligible to vote on that year’s grants.
When can I join?
NextGen accepts members at any time. Members that join between January 1-August 31 may be eligible to vote on that year’s grants distributions. Those that join between September 1 and December 31 will start receiving benefits immediately with the exception of voting eligibility. Their contribution and voting eligibility will be held for the next year’s grants distribution.
What are the events?
There are several opportunities each year for NextGen Rochester members to get together, learn more about our community’s needs and the nonprofit community that serves them, as well as some nonprofit site visits, and social events. Check out our Upcoming Events listed on this site or friend us on Facebook at facebook.com/FriendNextGenROC to get our FB event invites.
May I bring a guest to the events?
Most of NextGen Rochester’s events (like our site visits and volunteer opportunities) are open to the public. We do hold some events (like our Leadership Breakfast series) that we call “member +1” events. This means that while it is a member-only event, members are allowed to bring a guest of their choosing.
Are you on Facebook or Twitter?
Yes! Follow us at http://www.facebook.com/NextGenRoc or http://www.twitter.com/NextGenRoc.
What does the Community Foundation have to do with NextGen Rochester?
NextGen Rochester is an initiative of Rochester Area Community Foundation (the Community Foundation’s legal name). A fund named NextGen Rochester has been created to accept contributions for this giving circle and make grants on behalf of the membership.
Why the Community Foundation?
As greater Rochester’s largest grantmaking foundation, the Community Foundation engages passionate philanthropists in improving our community through grants and initiatives.
Does that mean my contributions to the NextGen Rochester Fund are tax deductible?
Yes. The Community Foundation is an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) public charity.
How do I join NextGen Rochester?
Send your membership contribution in check form made payable to the NextGen Rochester Fund c/o The Community Foundation, 500 East Avenue, Rochester, NY 14607; use your credit card at www.racf.org/NextGen or call (585) 271-4100.