Dear Friends,

As we reach the end of a year full of challenges and hard-fought wins, I am reflecting with gratitude on the community and partners that make this work possible. In 2023, NEO Philanthropy celebrated 40 years of building and supporting social justice movements. As we took stock of the progress made and the work yet unfinished, the clear takeaway is the continuing need for strong, resilient organizations in communities closest to the work.

With your partnership we have been able to send critical resources and support to groups and leaders on the front lines of social change. The strength of our community is shown not just in the progress we win but in the connections we make when we work together.

An illustrative example of this approach is the Four Freedoms Fund which celebrated its 20th anniversary this year strengthening local and state level movements for immigrant justice. FFF grantees continue to make progress with wins that will expand protections and increase access to services for immigrant communities. We hope you take a moment to check out the “Forward for Freedom” videos to hear directly from those involved in strengthening the immigrant justice movement state by state.

The State Infrastructure Fund continues to invest in organizations working on protecting democracy, resulting in crucial wins for voting rights at the U.S. Supreme Court and in policies expanding access to the ballot. As we look to 2024, there are many more fights ahead. We are gearing up to provide critical support for organizations across the country in the coming election year to ensure everyone can express themselves at the polls and that fundamental freedoms are protected and advanced.

I also want to highlight the work of NEO’s fiscal sponsorship and donor services teams who are key partners to NEO sponsored projects. This year, NEO projects have continued to build power across movements on issues from immigrant rights and civic engagement to reproductive and environmental justice, and more.

When I look to NEO funds, grantees, and sponsored projects doing outstanding, groundbreaking work, it gives me much hope for the future. Starting in 2024, NEO’s new strategic plan lays out our vision for the work ahead. While the future is always uncertain, NEO will continue to be rooted in our values and our mission.

As a key partner, you play an essential role in our community and I look forward to the future we’re building together. I know we are ready to take on the next challenge!

With Gratitude,

Michele Lord, President, NEO Philanthropy