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Equity Ahora New Jersey works to create a healthier, more equitable New Jersey by investing in resident-led community groups and networks, rooted in racial equity, and centered on systems change. Equity Ahora is managed through a collaborative relationship among the Community Foundation of New Jersey, the Community Foundation of South Jersey, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

Equity Ahora will provide funding and holistic support services to grassroots community powered groups rooted in racial equity and actively working on systems change. We believe that sustainable change and a significant shift in power dynamics is led by those most affected by the issues created by oppressive systems, structures and institutions.

Equity Ahora NJ: Leadership and Partnership Principles 

Equity Ahora NJ: Leadership and Partnership Principles

1. We communicate directly and in plain language.
   We prioritize clarity over formality and substance over polish. You can expect honest, straightforward communication without jargon, ambiguity, or performative language. We believe that clarity is kind rather than nice, an act of respect.
2. Our primary accountability is to community.
   All decisions, timelines, and communication are grounded in loyalty to grassroots leaders and communities most directly impacted. Community leadership is centered as‑is — not translated, softened, or reshaped to meet institutional comfort.
3. Transparency is core to how we work.
   We are transparent about process, decision‑making, constraints, and changes as they arise. In partnership, we value funders who are also open about their priorities, limits, and realities.
4. We do what we say — and say what we really do.
   Follow‑through matters. We aim for consistency between commitments and action, and we name challenges early rather than managing them quietly. We value honesty over maintaining optics.
5. Relationship comes before transaction.
   Our approach is rooted in trust, care, and long‑term relationships — not extractive timelines, excessive reporting, or box‑checking. We prioritize dignity and reciprocity, especially with grassroots partners who are often overburdened.
6. Clear alignment matters more than universal fit.
   We are not trying to be the right partner for everyone. We welcome funders who value shared principles, direct communication, and community‑led decision‑making. Misalignment named early is considered a success.
7. This is an invitation, not an accommodation.
   Our style is an invitation to work in ways rooted in integrity, accountability, and solidarity. We welcome reflection, honest dialogue, and transparency — including when something does not align.
8. We are action‑based and change‑driven.
   Our work centers on implementation and results, rather than extended cycles of conversation, meetings, panels, reports, or committees.

We value funders who meet clarity with clarity, honesty with honesty, and care with action. This is how we practice accountability — not just in words, but in how resources and relationships move.