What's Happening?
Brooklyn Org, formerly known as the Brooklyn Community Foundation, has successfully doubled its donor-advised funds by shifting its approach to engage younger donors. The organization recognized that traditional philanthropy models, which focused on transactional
relationships, were not appealing to the next generation of donors. In response, Brooklyn Org reimagined itself as a platform for civic engagement, where community members, donors, nonprofits, and businesses collaborate to shape the future of their communities. This shift began in 2022 with a boroughwide listening campaign, which involved visiting 27 neighborhoods and engaging with 150 residents to understand their needs. The insights gathered led to the development of initiatives like Neighborhood Collective Impact Grants and microgrants, directly addressing community concerns. As a result, from 2019 to 2025, the organization's contributed revenue grew from $2.4 million to $28.8 million, and assets under management increased from $74.5 million to $146.8 million.
Why It's Important?
The strategic shift by Brooklyn Org highlights a significant trend in philanthropy, where engagement and participation are prioritized over mere financial transactions. This approach not only attracts younger donors, who are often skeptical of traditional philanthropy, but also fosters a sense of ownership and involvement in community development. By listening to and acting on community input, Brooklyn Org has built trust and strengthened its role as a community advocate. This model could serve as a blueprint for other philanthropic organizations seeking to engage younger generations and increase their impact. The success of Brooklyn Org demonstrates the potential for increased funding and community involvement when donors are treated as partners rather than just financial contributors.
What's Next?
Brooklyn Org plans to continue its engagement strategy by hosting frequent listening sessions and expanding opportunities for community participation. The organization aims to further integrate community input into its funding decisions and create more pathways for donor involvement, such as advisory roles and volunteer opportunities. By maintaining this participatory approach, Brooklyn Org hopes to sustain its growth in donor-advised funds and continue increasing its investment in community nonprofits. The organization also intends to leverage its position as a community advocate to influence policymakers and address pressing local issues.
