I began my tenure as President & CEO on January 5 with a tremendous outpouring of support and good wishes from the Community Foundation’s valued stakeholders—trustees, staff, donors, grantees and community partners. I have enjoyed the kindest words of welcome, and I have quickly learned that the Community Foundation is a special place for promoting philanthropy. I do look forward to all of the important work we will accomplish together.
I am a strategic leader, deeply invested in understanding the social issues that impact neighborhoods and shape communities. I believe in the power of relationships; I believe in collaborations that make sense and in listening to each other. I’m most excited about building on the Community Foundation’s existing work with targeted initiatives that improve the lives of everyone in our region through well-directed, high impact philanthropy.
What does that look like? Right now I’m doing a lot of listening and learning. Our grantees and other community partners are my guideposts. I’ve been active in community development in NJ for the last 22 years, and I’ll use that background as we shape a strategic plan for the Community Foundation’s future. With our trustees’ and staff’s broad experience and networks, with your support, and with the wisdom of our partners, we will continue our mission: Promoting philanthropy for the well-being of our communities forever.
—Jeffrey M. Vega, President & CEO
