NewAlliance Foundation

05/29/2026

Yesterday, we had the privilege of hosting our spring READy for the Grade convening at the spectacular Yale Peabody Museum — and what an inspiring afternoon it was! 📚✨

READy for the Grade is NewAlliance Foundation's Public Library Summer Reading Initiative, a multi-year grant program designed to prepare K-3 children for grade level reading by stemming the summer reading loss that disproportionately affects children from low-income families.

Librarians and teachers gathered alongside Director of Programs LaKisha Jordan , Executive Director Darcey Cobbs-Lomax and Board Members Dr. Margie Gillis and Dr. Dorsey Kendrick for connection and learning. Dr. Gillis reminded us all of the critical role early literacy plays in a child's future, and her presentation left the room energized and inspired.

A heartfelt thank you to the librarians and teachers who show up for our kids every single day at .

And a special thank you to the wonderful staff at for welcoming us so graciously!

05/18/2026

Applications are now open for our Fall 2026 grant opportunities.

📅 Deadline: July 1

Learn more about eligibility and how to apply on our website. https://newalliancefoundation.org/applying-for-a-grant/how-to-apply/

05/13/2026

Sharing this upcoming film screening and community conversation from Connecticut CASA supporting children and families across Connecticut.

Join us on May 21 for "Voices of Experience" - a film screening and public conversation, benefiting CT CASA and the children we serve. Tawanna Brown and Christopher Scott are featured speakers at New Haven’s Flint Street Theater. Email ([email protected]) to register.

Thank you to our sponsors:
Claire's Corner Copia Yale University The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven NewAlliance Foundation The Wine Thief Better Rhodes
If you would like to learn more visit: https://www.connecticutcasa.org/voicesofexperience/

04/30/2026

Thank you to the wonderful staff and volunteers at the Huneebee Project in New Haven!

Darcey Cobbs-Lomax, Executive Director (herself a new beekeeper!), and LaKisha Jordan, Director of Programs, visited this week and saw firsthand how Huneebee works with local partners to engage young people in hands-on learning and environmental education through its programs.

Grateful for the opportunity to connect and see this work in action!

04/08/2026

📣 Now Accepting Proposals: Program Evaluator & Strategic Consultant

NewAlliance Foundation is seeking an experienced evaluator to assess the READy for the Grade (RfG) summer reading program, which supports K‑3 learners across Connecticut libraries. This contract role offers a meaningful opportunity to shape early literacy outcomes.

📌 Key responsibilities:
• Evaluate program data and outcomes
• Visit partner libraries
• Produce comprehensive evaluation reports
• Advise on future program strategy

📄 Learn more & apply:
https://newalliancefoundation.org/

🗓️ Application Deadline: May 15, 2026

Homepage Public Library Summer Reading Initiative “READy for the Grade,” NewAlliance Foundation’s Public Library Summer Reading Initiative, is a multi-year grant program, designed to prepare K-3 children for grade level reading by stemming the summer reading loss often affecting children from ...

01/08/2026

The Board of Directors of NewAlliance Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Darcey Cobbs-Lomax as Executive Director, effective February 16, 2026.

Darcey brings extensive experience in health equity and community impact, with a career rooted in building strong teams and centering community well-being.

We look forward to Darcey joining the NewAlliance team to continue advancing the Foundation’s mission of strengthening literacy, building community, and dismantling systems that perpetuate poverty and racism.

Congratulations, Darcey!

https://newalliancefoundation.org/category/news-press-releases/

12/18/2025

Season's Greetings from all of us at NewAlliance Foundation!

11/21/2025

NewAlliance Foundation is proud to honor Dr. Sue Lagarde with the Kim A. Healey Leadership Award. 💚

Dr. Lagarde’s exemplary leadership, courage, and commitment to our community reflect the very purpose of this award. We are deeply grateful for the impact she continues to make.

We were joined in celebration by Director of Programs LaKisha Jordan, Executive Director Maryann Ott, former Executive Director Kim A. Healey, and Board Members Toni Harp and David Newton, all of whom helped mark this special moment.

Join us in congratulating Dr. Lagarde! 👏💚

11/05/2025

During this challenging period for many people in our community, is helping ensure access to fresh, local food in New Haven. 💚

We’re highlighting their work alongside the many organizations providing critical support!

Read more about their efforts in the New Haven Independent: https://www.newhavenindependent.org/2025/11/03/cityseed-steps-up-amid-snap-lapse/

10/21/2025

Two Grant Opportunities Now Available!

The NewAlliance Foundation is supporting organizations making a meaningful impact in our communities.

💼 Annual Spring Grant
🌱 Emerging Grant

⏰ Deadline for Both Grants: December 1

📌 Visit our website www.newalliancefoundation.org for important details and to apply!