Welcome to episode 5 of Today is the Day Changemakers, 'Community Allyship.'
In this episode, I interview Jeremy Grunin, president of the Grunin Foundation. When we chatted I learned that Jeremy serves on 18, yes 18, not-for-profit boards and is acting chair on a few as well such as Chairman of Count Basie Center for the Arts; Trustee of Center for Non-Profits; Board Member of YMCA of Greater Monmouth County; Board Member of Jersey Shore Medical Center Foundation; Board Member of Arts Ed NJ; Executive Board Member of Council of New Jersey Grantmakers; Board Member of Women’s Center for Entrepreneurship (WCEC); Co-Chair of the NJ Arts and Culture Recovery Fund Steering Committee; Co-Chair of mindALIGNED Steering Committee; Chairman of Exit 82 Theatre, etc.
As you can tell, Jeremy is very dedicated to the success of the non-profit community and eager to assist the community in any way he can.
During the interview, Jeremy weighs in on multiple relevant topics including fundraising models, philanthropy, collective impact, social justice, servant leadership, having true perspective, how words really do matter, not having a college degree, and more! There is a lot in this episode to unpack. When discussing servant leadership Jeremy mentions that "surrounding yourself with people who are smarter than you" is an important part of growing into a well-rounded leader. He also discusses raising his consciousness around social justice movements and applying what he has learned to his organization. He says, "we need to talk about it, have ongoing conversations, and fix it" and that "it is an important part of the work they are doing at the Grunin Foundation."
We had some fun with learning that we both played the cello growing up. Jeremy shares that he played piano as well and wishes he could still play.
When speaking with Jeremy you know immediately that he tells it like it is. You also know right away that he is passionate about the work that he does, his community, his team, his family, and so much more. Take a listen to his answer to the open-ended question: "If I knew then what I know now, I would..."
The Grunin Foundation is a pro-active grantmaker and Jeremy shares exactly what that means in the interview. Although the foundation has certain pillars that they focus on, they are also known for their willingness to help connect organizations and mentor non-profits. The Grunin Foundation believes that when non-profits in the community thrive, the entire community thrives. That is why they launched Grunin Capacity and the Catapult Institute which offers training, networking, mentorship opportunities, and resources to local nonprofit professionals in Monmouth & Ocean counties. The Catapult 2021 kickoff is on Friday, February 5.
Thank you to Jeremy for his time and for sharing his great insight. It is because of people like Jeremy and organizations like the Grunin Foundation that non-profits are able to build capacity, continue to share their mission, and make a significant positive impact.
The Grunin Foundation has supported the Zzak G. Applaud Our Kids Foundation from the beginning and we are forever grateful to Jeremy, Heather, and the amazing team for all of their support!
In the next episode, I interview Kristina Henderson, CEO of Henderson Promotions, and 2020 Mrs. New Jersey American. Have a great week!