In light of financial struggles, distinguished leaders praised for delivering essential services in the nonprofit sector
In a move aimed at supporting the vital work of nonprofit organisations, the Adams administration has released over $5 billion in advance payments to nonprofits for fiscal year 2026. This significant injection of funds is intended to clear overdue payments for the city and provide much-needed relief to these essential organisations.
Michael Sedillo, the newly appointed executive director of the Mayor's Office of Nonprofit Services, played a key role in securing these payments. Sedillo, who was appointed in January, has been a driving force behind community hiring programs aimed at reducing job vacancies in the coming year. His efforts have been focused on streamlining contracting processes and cutting red tape to help release these funds.
The nonprofit sector in New York State has been underfunded for years, with over 16% of the private workforce employed by nonprofits. These organisations have played essential roles in filling gaps and reaching crevices overlooked by traditional systems. However, they have faced numerous challenges, particularly since the early days of the Trump administration when they were under attack and critically underfunded.
The financial pressures weigh heavily on organisations of all sizes in the nonprofit sector. Nearly 65% of New York nonprofits are currently concerned with funding basic operations for the year ahead, and 17% anticipate they may need to take a line of credit just to keep the lights on.
The honourees recognised for their tireless dedication to aiding historically marginalized groups have often been under-resourced but have fought stigma, offered care, and saved lives. Their stories are not about institutions clinging to tradition but rather bold, values-driven adaptation. Honourees didn't wait for permission and went where the need was greatest, adapting their missions to serve a community that had been largely abandoned by mainstream institutions.
Speaker Caura Washington honoured these honourees and the 120,000 statewide nonprofit organisations that employ nearly 1.3 million New Yorkers. She acknowledged the crucial role these organisations have played in providing essential services and supporting vulnerable communities.
Sedillo's previous efforts have included securing over $6 billion in funding for nonprofits in 2022. His commitment to supporting the nonprofit sector is clear, and these advance payments are a testament to his dedication to ensuring these vital organisations have the resources they need to continue their important work.
