Happy 2026! This year the AFF enters our 12th year of giving, and we’re excited to dive into it. Our 2025 grants, donations, and pledge contributions amounted to over $360,000. In April, Ambassadors can apply for Ambassador Grants on behalf of nonprofits in their own communities, and Red Hook High School seniors can apply for Scholarships through the AFF. In the fall, organizations local to the Dutchess, Ulster, and Columbia counties can apply for grants.
Our 2026 started with a check presentation to the Red Hook Faculty Association for food cards and student-in-need food expenses, thanks to a $2 pledge per item in a months-long fall Nourish Your Neighbor food donation and fundraising effort. Huge thanks to Director Deb Fraleigh for taking the lead on the record-setting campaign! Over 8,700 items were collected at Red Hook schools and distributed to local food pantries, and, in turn the AFF donated $17,446 for further support of students and families in need in our community.
In February, Director Nick Ascienzo had a great visit to a class on Nonprofit Fundraising at Marist University, taught by Director Jen Melitski’s husband, Dr. James Melitski. Nick talked to the class about the AFF’s history, successes, and challenges, as well as the process we undertake for each grant funding cycle. The focus was on strategic philanthropy, and making difficult decisions with constrained resources.
Lastly, a number of Directors (and intern Ash) were able to gather in person for our February Board meeting! It was great to brainstorm about the AFF’s future and catch up with each other.