Catalyst Giving Circle

Catalyst members have awarded tens of thousands of dollars to a variety of programs meeting important needs and addressing difficult challenges in the community.

Grass Roots Giving

Whether you’re brand new to philanthropy or a seasoned giver, Catalyst offers an accessible way to get involved, learn about pressing community issues, and be part of real solutions—together.

Why Join Catalyst?

The idea is simple but powerful: Every membership goes into a collective fund supplemented by the Foundation. This fund, equaling $20,000, becomes a grant that supports local organization tackling a selected issue. Every member has a voice in where the grant goes.

Our model makes philanthropy accessible to everyone. You don’t need to give thousands to make a difference. When we pool our dollars, every gift becomes part of something bigger.

Here’s How It Works:

1. Learn Together

Three times a year, Catalyst members meet to explore a community issue—selected by the group—and hear directly from local nonprofits and experts working on the front lines.

2. Give with Purpose

Together, members review funding proposals from local nonprofits addressing that issue and then vote to decide which program(s) to support with our pooled grant dollars.

3. Build Real Impact

Since 2009, Catalyst has awarded over $247,500 in grants to local programs—and that number keeps growing with your support.

Membership Options

  • Discovery Member – $50 (first-time members)
  • Annual Member – $250
  • Business Sponsor – $250

Join Catalyst and discover how small gifts, when combined, can lead to big change.

For more information about how you can become a part of the Catalyst Fund, please call or e-mail Joeline Wruck, Director of Grants & Initiatives at jwruck@cfgnb.org or 860.229.6018 x 307.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

The Community Foundation of Greater New Britain is now accepting applications for a $20,000 Catalyst Fund grant focused on supporting unhoused populations in Berlin, New Britain, Plainville, and Southington.

  • One grant of up to $20,000 will be awarded in November 2025
  • Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) community-based organizations
  • Proposals are due by Friday, August 15, 2025

Click the button below to view the full grant application and guidelines:

Grant Application: Supporting Unhoused Populations

2025 Catalyst Topic:

Supporting the Needs of Unsheltered Populations

The new season began with a gathering on Wednesday, June 25, at The Back Nine Tavern. More than 65 Catalyst members came together to hear from Julian Pierce of the Connecticut Department of Housing and Matthew Morgan of Journey Home. Their presentations offered a deeper understanding of the complex challenges facing unhoused individuals and highlighted innovative strategies being used to address these issues across the state.

Read More about First Catalyst Meeting


Meeting 2: Grant Finalist Presentations – Hear from organizations applying for Catalyst funding.

📅 Wednesday, September 17 | 5:30–7:30 PM
📍The Hospital of Central CT, New Britain Campus, 100 Grand Street, Lecture Rooms 1 & 2

Meeting 3: Grant Selection & Future Planning – Hear from last year’s grant recipient, vote on this year’s winner, and discuss potential topics for 2026.

📅 Wednesday, November 19 | 5:30–7:30 PM
📍Shuttle Meadow Country Club, 51 Randecker Lane, Berlin, CT

Catalyst Fund Brochure and Membership Form:

Catalyst Fund Grant History:


Thank You to Our Catalyst Business Sponsors!