A storm relief fund has been established by the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, in partnership with Oneida County, in response to the severe thunderstorms and EF1 tornado that impacted Clark Mills, the Town of Kirkland, and surrounding areas on June 22, which caused widespread power outages and destruction to homes and buildings.

On Wednesday, June 18, 2025, community members, nonprofit partners, and local leaders gathered together for the highly anticipated Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting of the newly reintroduced Cornhill Empowerment Center. The event, held at 230 James Street in Utica, marked an exciting new chapter for the neighborhood and was a major success. 

The Ian J. Amendolare Blue Collar Trade Award was recently established at the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties by the family and friends of Ian J. Amendolare, a West Canada native whose kindness, resilience and selflessness left a permanent mark on those who knew him. Created in the wake of his untimely passing, the fund serves as a meaningful and lasting tribute aimed at providing support to students who are passionate about pursuing a career in the trades. 

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties announced that more than $2.7 million in grants were awarded during the first quarter of 2025 to support nonprofit organizations and community initiative work, primarily in the areas of arts and culture, human services, animals, and education. 

Hero Fund America (HFA) Fund, a field-of-interest fund of the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, is seeking applications for its First Responders Grant Round for programs, projects, and other needs that will support education, training, lifesaving equipment, and mental health of fire, emergency medical services (EMS), and law enforcement agencies. Organizations in New York and other states are encouraged to apply.

A strong arts community means a stronger region. The Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties recently awarded over $270,000 to local nonprofits through its Arts Grant Round. Learn how these investments are helping creativity thrive in the area.

The Elizabeth Gerling Legacy Scholarship Fund was recently established at the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties to honor the life of Columbus Elementary School Principal Elizabeth Gerling, whose compassion, strength and dedication left an enduring impact on those who knew her. Created in the wake of her untimely passing, the fund serves as a meaningful way to continue the work and values Elizabeth held dear—whether through helping others in need or fostering educational opportunities for future generations.  

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties and UpMobility Foundation are pleased to announce that the fourth-annual online day of community giving, “Mohawk Valley Gives,” will take place on Friday, September 19, benefiting nonprofits serving Herkimer, Oneida, and Otsego counties. Nonprofit organizations interested in participating must complete a brief registration form at givemv.org between Thursday, May 1, through Saturday, May 31.  

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties offers meaningful ways to give back through its Memorial and Celebration Funds, which allow individuals to commemorate loved ones or celebrate life’s special moments while making a lasting impact on the community.