NextGen Giving Circle Awards $30,000 to Three Local Nonprofits

The NextGen Giving Circle of the Princeton Area Community Foundation has awarded a total of $30,000 in grants to three local nonprofits that are helping young people build brighter futures across the region.

HomeFront, HomeWorks Trenton and The Father Center of New Jersey each received a $10,000 grant from the NextGen Giving Circle.

“One of the things that stood out to us was that these organizations are not just addressing immediate needs, they’re helping young people build a stronger foundation for the future,” said Jeremy Perlman, one of the founding members of the Giving Circle. “Whether through early childhood development, educational support, or mentorship and leadership training, each program is making a lasting impact on the individuals served and our community.”

Established in 2017, the NextGen Giving Circle is one of more than 400 charitable funds at the Community Foundation, which helps connect donors to the causes they care about most.

Anyone can join the NextGen Giving Circle. Most of its members are Gen Z or Millennials. They pool their donations, then meet annually to evaluate funding opportunities and recommend grants.

The Giving Circle has awarded a total of $240,000 in grants to local nonprofits since its founding.

“The Giving Circle has brought together collaborative young professionals who deeply care about our community. Each year, a diverse group of applicants raises our awareness of local needs and sparks stimulating conversation during grantmaking sessions. PACF staff help us understand nonprofit operations and how our funds can make the greatest impact. The Giving Circle shows us what pooled grantmaking can achieve, something we’ll each carry with us into the future.” Said NextGen member Caitlin Kolczynski

The 2026 NextGen grantee partners:

• HomeFront, based in Lawrence, received a grant for its Atkinson Child Development Center at its Family Campus in Ewing. The center provides a welcoming, supportive and engaging space and serves up to 30 children, ages 6-months-old to 5-years-old, at the emergency shelter for families experiencing homelessness. It provides developmentally appropriate support for the children and peace of mind for parents.
• HomeWorks Trenton, received a grant for its After-School Residential Program serving high school girls. Participants live in the HomeWorks dorm from Sunday to Friday and receive transportation to and from their public schools. Through the program, scholars engage in activities focused on academics, identity-driven leadership, study hall, field trips, internships and weekly mental health counseling.
• The Father Center of New Jersey in Trenton received a grant for Developing Young Men, Young Leaders, a comprehensive leadership and life-readiness program serving teens and young men. The program combines individualized case management, academic support, and long-term mentorship to ensure participants graduate from high school and transition successfully into college, careers, or skilled trades. Each participant receives a personalized service plan that addresses academic progress, emotional wellness, and career goals.

To learn more about NextGen Giving Circle or to become a member, visit the NextGen page or contact Angie McManimon, Community Foundation Senior Director of Philanthropy, at amcmanimon@pacf.org or 609.219.1800.