To our cherished fundholders, donors and friends:

In light of the current federal administration’s efforts to influence federal policy related to many of the diversity and equity initiatives that have guided the deployment of our charitable resources and the lens through which we envision strength and vibrancy in our communities, we feel it appropriate to restate the Northwest CT Community Foundation’s (NCCF) unwavering commitment to its foundational values and to those of the charitable entities that support our collective wellbeing. 

NCCF holds fast to a long-standing Statement of Values and Code of Ethics that seeks to enhance the quality of life for all residents of Northwest CT. The ability to achieve our mission and to foster a commitment to excellence can best be realized with a governing body, workforce, grantees, donors and partners that include individuals of diverse backgrounds, beliefs and perspectives. NCCF believes that diversity encompasses, but is not limited to, ethnicity, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, economic circumstance, physical and mental abilities, citizenship, philosophy and lifestyle.

 NCCF respects and celebrates diversity that contributes to a healthy and caring community and commits its resources in ways that communicate to the broad spectrum of community members and community groups with diverse cultures, philosophies and experiences, that they are welcome partners in its efforts.

In as much as NCCF’s values will not be compromised by financial incentives or penalties, we understand the challenges faced by nonprofits supporting our local communities. NCCF will meet them “where they are” without judgement or prejudice, even as they may be compelled to alter their mission language to preserve vital funding streams for the greater good of continuing to serve the community. 

NCCF joins more than six hundred philanthropic institutions in signing this Council on Foundations declaration:

As charitable giving institutions, we are united behind our First Amendment right to give as an expression of our own distinct values. Especially in this time of great need, we must have the freedom to direct our resources to a wide variety of important services, issues, and places, to improve lives today and build a stronger future for our country. 

At NCCF, we hold dear this First Amendment freedom, with gratitude to those who fought for it at our nation’s inception and continue to fight to protect it today. 

Sincerely, Guy Rovezzi, NCCF President and CEO 
On behalf of NCCF Staff and Board of Trustees