Annual Report Fiscal Year 2023–24

Dear Friends and Supporters,

Looking back on 2024, two words encapsulate the year for us: change and continuity. From our leadership and strategy to our efforts to maintain and deepen our connections with the communities we serve, this past year has been marked by both progress and stability. We are incredibly grateful to all of our generous donors who have enabled the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley (CFHV) to make a lasting difference in our region.

Though much of what we do on a day-to-day basis remains consistent, we are also developing new, creative ways to positively impact those in need—either directly or through supporting local nonprofits. In 2024, we distributed $12 million in grants (up from $10.9 million), thanks to an asset base that grew to $120 million (from $104 million).

With our new President and CEO, Laura Washington, joining us in February, we are better poised for the future than ever before. Laura, returning to her Hudson Valley roots, came on board at a time when CFHV was at an inflection point. We faced the challenge of how to grow while staying mindful of our core mission: being attuned to local needs and responding effectively to them.

Additionally, the Board has embraced a new direction with Robert Cotter stepping in as Board Chair, signifying another change that will influence our future development.

While CFHV evolves, we remain equally committed to the values that have made us a trusted resource in the region for more than 50 years.

Community engagement has been a cornerstone of our efforts this year. We launched a series of Community Conversations across Dutchess, Putnam, and Ulster Counties, providing a platform for residents to share their ideas, concerns, and hopes for the future. These dialogues give us invaluable insights into the needs of our communities and are helping shape our future grantmaking. We look forward to continuing these conversations and sharing the insights we gather in a comprehensive report that will guide our future efforts.

We are listening to our donors. In June, we conducted the CEP Donor Perception Survey to gather valuable feedback from our donor community. The insights we received guide us as we refine our approach to meet the evolving needs of those who make our work possible. Using this survey as a roadmap, we are better equipped to ensure that each donor’s giving experience is meaningful and that the funds they establish are effectively stewarded. Our goal is to strengthen relationships with our donors and ensure that their philanthropic visions continue to be realized through the work we do.

Enhanced communication is another key area of focus this year. Our goal is to raise awareness about the important work we do. We launched a targeted marketing campaign to increase visibility across our three counties. Additionally, we’re in the process of redesigning our website to make it more user-friendly and ensure that it clearly conveys our mission. We want to make it easier than ever for individuals and organizations to engage with us and support our work.

Equipped with this information, we can refine our strategic plan while maintaining continuity in our vision to inspire and celebrate local charitable giving and civic engagement.

With your continued support, together, we can take the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley to the next level.

With gratitude,