The original Flower City Philanthropy website was launched in 2016 by co-founders Amy Button and Alyssa Belasco. The website and social media channels brought many volunteer opportunities and charitable events to the Rochester community and shared stories of philanthropy from friends and neighbors. Flower City Philanthropy went on hiatus in 2018 when the co-founders were unable to continue the work due to personal commitments.

I was a follower of the original Flower City Philanthropy. When I was brainstorming ways that I could increase my community impact by championing volunteer leadership in our community, I reached out to one of the co-founders to learn more about Flower City Philanthropy. We met for lunch, and Flower City Philanthropy came back to life!

Amy and Alyssa generously agreed to allow me to use the Flower City Philanthropy name and logo for a new website and Facebook page, and to use the Instagram account still in existence. I’ve brought my friend and fellow Junior League of Rochester member, Sarah Heisman, on board as Associate Director so we can serve the Rochester community in the way that Amy and Alyssa envisioned several years ago. We plan to build an Advisory Board in 2023, and Amy has agreed to be our first member!

Our mission at Flower City Philanthropy is to bring volunteer and philanthropic opportunities to the Rochester and Monroe County community. We want all members of our community to discover the best way for them to give back, whether it be by donating their time, talent, or treasure.

The nonprofit organizations that we’ll highlight play a huge role in keeping our community safe, healthy, educated, housed, and fed. These organizations offer options such as one-time volunteer opportunities, board roles, committee memberships, annual giving appeals, and fun events. Flower City Philanthropy is your local hub for ways to support our community!

In doing our work, we are committed to reducing the burden on nonprofit staff and leaders to let us know about their opportunities. Flower City Philanthropy will do the day-to-day work of seeking out this information through already existing channels of communication, like social media feeds and email newsletters. Whether you are a community member looking to give back or a nonprofit leader looking for support, we've got you covered!

A note on our business form: Flower City Philanthropy is not an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit. We will not seek donations and instead ask that you donate funds to the nonprofit of your choice.