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. 

UpMobility Foundation (UMF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Amy Lindner as the organization’s new Interim Executive Director. Lindner has an extensive background in higher education and the nonprofit sector, including program development and evaluation, grants administration, fundraising, community and constituent relations, and more.

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties concluded another year of community investment in 2024, awarding grants, scholarships, and emergency relief funds totaling more than $15.7 million, marking the highest dollar amount awarded in a single year in the Community Foundation’s 70+ year history.  Additionally, donations received in 2024 totaled over $16 million – the second-highest year on record in terms of dollars raised.

Samaritan Counseling Center of the Mohawk Valley has established a permanent partnership with the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties through the creation of four new funds to support, expand and continue its impact for years to come.

Scholarships are awarded each year to local students in memory of Hinckley, NY teen Connor Lynskey through the Connor Arthur Lynskey Memorial Scholarship Fund at the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties.