Issue No. #2

Season's Greetings!

The holidays are quickly approaching—and already in full swing here in New York! This is truly one of my favorite times of year, as I know it is for many others. It’s a season to gather with family and friends, to join neighbors for community festivities (caroling, anyone?), and to enjoy more than our fair share of good food and eggnog—or, in my home, coquito.

As we take in the cheer and connection this season brings, it’s also a time when many of us reflect on the change we want to create—both personally and within our communities. The holidays naturally inspire generosity and togetherness, making it a perfect moment not only to reflect but also to act. Community isn’t just something we belong to — it’s something we build, grow, and fuel through our collective energy and inspiration.

If you’re at the starting point of turning your idea into action, this time of year offers the perfect opportunity to pilot your initiative and engage neighbors in building something meaningful together. Check out this article to explore ways to connect with others while bringing your idea for action to life.

PARTICIPANT HIGHLIGHTS 💫

In 2023, our team was deeply moved and inspired by the connection formed between two of our participants, Ismail and Roopal. Living on opposite sides of the world, they met during a community chat hosted by our program, the Idealist Action Incubator. They formed a bond that helped deepen our understanding of what it means to ‘connect and act’ together towards a shared vision. Click here to read more about their partnership and combined success.

COACHES CORNER 🦸🏻‍♀️

Tatiana joined our team last year, driven by a passion for helping people create ripple effects of positive change. From the start, her expertise, deep empathy, and genuine commitment to helping participants understand their motivations have been instrumental in guiding many to move forward with their ideas. Click here to read more about our outstanding team member!

PROGRAMMING ANNOUNCEMENT 🗣️

EXCITING NEWS! Starting February 2026, the Idealist Action Incubator will host a new series of free monthly virtual workshops!

Each month, we’ll explore practical topics to help you:

✨ Take the first steps toward launching your initiative

🚀 Find and use the resources that fuel your momentum

🌱 Sustain your efforts for long-term change

You’ll also have the chance to meet and network with a global community of action-driven, like-hearted individuals, like you, who are looking to turn their ideas into real-world impact! 

Stay tuned for more details in the new year—we can’t wait to learn, grow, and take action together! 💡🌍

UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES 👀

FUNDING 

🌟 The Awesome Foundation - a global microgrant network that awards microgrants of $1,000 to community initiatives ranging from community development, technology, arts, etc. The microgrants are awarded monthly by local chapters. Visit the site to learn more and apply.

💮 The Pollination Project awards daily grants of $500 to volunteers and grassroots organizations for community efforts. Additionally, support is offered to help with fundraising efforts and additional learning through resources and workshops. Click here to learn more and apply.  

🍨 Ben & Jerry’s Foundation: National Grassroots Organizing Program - awards grants to community-based, grassroots nonprofits with a budget under $350,000, up to $30,000, who are working to address social and environmental injustice. Applications are open for 2025.

👩🏽‍💻 WomensNet Amber Grant Program - a grants program for women starting or running a business, including nonprofits. Monthly awards of $10,000 are given and applications are accepted on a rolling basis.  

ACCELERATOR PROGRAMS

➡️ Urban Justice Center Social Justice Accelerator - This nationwide, two-year accelerator equips selected new and early-stage nonprofits addressing social justice issues in their area with access to fiscal sponsorship, organizational development, support, resources, and mentorship by expert leaders in the nonprofit and entrepreneurial sectors, among other benefits. Click here to learn more and apply.

RESOURCES

🎧 Communitas of New York Podcast - Communitas America invites listeners to their new podcast featuring Communitas Ventures alums. Listen to innovative stories from founders sharing how they navigate the challenges of accessing the right resources at the right time, staying true to their vision, and best managing their potential!’ Streaming on Apple, Spotify, and iHeart Radio.

If you’d like to share your story and progress with your idea, drop me a line (or more) at cjones.walton@idealist.org. 

I’m so glad you are a part of our community! Have a very joyful, restful, inspired, and lovely holiday. I look forward to connecting with you again in the new year!

Warmly,

Carol

P.S. Did someone forward this to you because you're a rocking change-maker in your community?  Subscribe here to get your very own Actions Newsletter in your inbox each month.