WHO WE ARE: The mission of the Niskayuna Community Foundation is to inspire generosity, encourage equity, and invest in local solutions. We believe that everyone in our community matters, and that for Niskayuna to thrive we need to embrace and support the unique mosaic of our vibrant neighborhoods. NCF is an affiliate and geographic fund of the Community Foundation for the Greater Capital District. NCF operates without paid staff and the all-volunteer board is responsible for the following: WHAT WE DO:
Grantmaking. The Niskayuna Community Foundation has one yearly grant cycle, as well as an ongoing mini grant process, that allows qualified organizations with a commitment to serving the Niskayuna community to apply for grants of up to $10,000. You can learn more about our grant recipients on our website: www.niskayunacf.org.
Scholarships and Educational Support. The Niskayuna Community Foundation awards annual scholarships for college bound students who reside within the Town of Niskayuna or the Niskayuna Central School District. The board also administers the Murray Award, which honors outstanding high school educators at Niskayuna High School.
Communications and Donor Development. The board manages at least one annual fundraising appeal to support grantmaking. We also support significant local events such as Niska-Day and collaborate with the town Farmers’ Market and other local organizations to promote a strong Niskayuna. We manage NCF’s website and Facebook page and produce an annual print newsletter and quarterly e-newsletter.
WHAT'S INVOLVED? Responsibilities of board members:
Attend and actively participate in monthly board meetings, typically held in the evenings. Options to participate remotely are available.
Participate in at least one committee: Communications and Donor Development, Finance, Grantmaking, Scholarships, Executive, Governance and Nominating (or other committees as created).
Participate in at least two community events/programs a year supported by NCF.
Come prepared for, and be an active participant in, all relevant meetings and activities.
Support NCF financially through a yearly personal donation of any amount.
Qualifications:
Be a current resident of the Town of Niskayuna and/or Niskayuna Central School District, a business owner in the Town of Niskayuna, or a current staff member of the Niskayuna Central School District or the Town of Niskayuna.
Be committed to serving the needs of the community.
Be an active learner, listener and doer.
Be able to commit to the board for at least one three-year term.
I'M INTERESTED. HOW DO I APPLY? Residents of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences are encouraged to apply with this application form. 2025 application deadline: September 15
Interviews will take place in October
New board members will be selected by November 2025.
2026 application cycle to be announced by March 2026.