About Us
The 21st Century Fund is a giving circle that is open to anyone who wants to give back to Western New York. All it takes is a onetime membership fee, and then you’re a member for life. Every two years, members vote to provide a $100,000 grant to one nonprofit organization. Our next voting events will be held in March and April 2026.
2026 $100,000 Grant Winner Announced!
On April 16, 2026, the 21st Century Fund members voted to award a $100,000 grant to Neighborhood Legal Services, Inc. for the NLS Justice Bus.
With the 21st Century Fund grant, they will provide access to legal advice, representation, and education to those in the community and for a Sprinterstyle commercial van outfitted as a mobile legal office. This vehicle will transport NLS staff, volunteer attorneys, and law students to underserved communities across Western New York. The Justice Bus program expands access to civil legal services for residents facing barriers due to transportation, disability, or isolation. A larger, fully equipped unit will enable partnerships with social service providers, private volunteer attorneys, and UB School of Law to deliver legal screening, advice, education, and referrals in housing, family, disability, and public benefits law. Unlike its current vehicle, the new van will allow private attorney-client conversations. Annually, the Justice Bus will serve over 3,000 individuals in five counties, generating an estimated $1.5 million in taxpayer savings while preserving housing and stabilizing income and benefits.
A Look Back on the 21st Century Fund 2024 Events
Check out this video from our 2024 events.
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Membership Information
21st Century Fund members have the opportunity to network with others who care about Western New York, learn about critical community needs, hear about innovative local projects and meet the dynamic leaders of area nonprofit organizations.
Membership in the fund is $2,100 for any individual, family or organization that wishes to take part – $1,000 if you are age 35 or under. Membership pledges can be paid over the course of five years.
For more information about membership or if you are a member and want to join one of the committees, please contact Nora Kennon, Stewardship Officer, by email at norak@cfgb.org or at (716) 852-2857 ext. 254.
For more information about the 21st Century Fund competitive grants process click here.