Journalism plays a vital role in democracy and civic life. It not only provides facts and analysis, but also amplifies community voices, sparks public dialogue, and helps people make informed decisions. At its best, journalism strengthens trust, accountability, and connection across society.
A free and independent press is central to this role. It ensures that power is held accountable, that diverse perspectives are represented, and that communities have access to reliable information—especially in times of crisis. With recent cuts to public media, these functions are increasingly at risk. Public media outlets in particular have long served as a cornerstone of civic infrastructure, often acting as the sole providers of trusted local news, emergency alerts, and educational or cultural programming. The erosion of these institutions accelerates the rise of “news and resource deserts,” threatening the foundation of an informed and engaged citizenry.
This program will bring together journalists, community leaders, funders, and experts to examine how the media landscape is changing and what it means for our democracy.
Please join us to explore how newsrooms and nonprofit organizations are adapting to fill the gaps left by public funding cuts, and how journalism, civic institutions, philanthropy, and communities can work together to ensure and sustain a free and independent press.
What will you learn?
- How nonprofit and mission-driven news organizations are innovating to cover threats and opportunities for democracy at both the local and national level.
- The challenges facing nonprofit journalism—from sustainability to trust-building—and how philanthropy can help address them.
- Career pathways and pipeline efforts, including how student journalists are being trained and supported.
- The role of philanthropy in an evolving and complex media ecosystem.
Speakers
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Erickson Blakney, Program Officer, Pinkerton Foundation
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Monika Bauerlein, Chief Executive Officer, Center for Investigative Reporting
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Beth Fertig, Executive Director, Press Pass NYC
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Richard Kim, Editor-in-Chief, The City
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Laurel Dumont (Moderator), ROLE, DJ McManus Foundation
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Speaker List in Formation
Who should attend?
All interested funders in journalism, democracy, and related roles. What to expect: panel discussions, Q&A, and light networking reception.
How do you sign up?
3:00 PM to 5:00 PM Program
Registration is required by October 29th.
Members: To register yourself and/or a colleague at your organization, please log in and click the “Register Now” link above. (No fee.)
Guests of Collaborators: Please email register@philanthropynewyork.org with your name, title, organizational affiliation, business mailing address, and phone number. Please indicate by which organizer you were invited. (No fee.)
Non-Member Funders: Please email register@philanthropynewyork.org. ($150 fee.)
In Collaboration With
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