February 2026 Newsletter

Friends,

We start the year with heavy hearts. With community members living in fear, afraid to leave their homes, we feel distraught and fundamentally disoriented. The democratic principles that make us proud to be Americans are threatened, and the possible endgame is shocking

What can restore humane practices and constitutional protections? A nonpartisan legal process and courageous public officials have the authority to redress violations. But equally, mobilized communities that come together to demand fair, constitutional treatment of their neighbors are powerful. They give meaning to "We the People," and policymakers, for reasons altruistic or self-serving, can stop the harm and re-establish respect for all residents and for constitutional principles.

During these difficult times, our grantees and other nonprofits continue to strengthen connections among neighbors and provide opportunities that allow us to engage more fully in the present and look more confidently to the future. The welcoming programs and the care nonprofit organizations offer are important reminders that communities are strong and truly the bedrock of democracy.

Communities are where we live our values and give expression to our core principles — and where we develop empathy for our neighbors because we know them. Our daily interactions make clear that every individual deserves to be treated with dignity. And anything less feels like an attack on our community, on our own sense of justice.

In this troubling period, the efforts of our grantees, other nonprofit organizations, and community volunteers ground us and offer sustenance of all kinds. And thanks in part to their actions, democratic principles continue to shape the identity and mores of the communities we call home

We are grateful.

Warmly,

Diana Morris, Executive Director

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