The Power of Grassroots Organizations and Their Impact (2024)

As the Executive Director of Emergent Works, I have the honor of witnessing firsthand the transformative power of grassroots organizations. These organizations are the lifeblood of our communities, driving change from the ground up by supporting leaders and communities that are often underrepresented. The impact of grassroots efforts is profound, creating jobs and pathways of employment and centering the voices of those closest to the problems and solutions yet furthest from the resources.

At Emergent Works, our mission is clear: we aim to expand our reach and deepen our engagement without reducing the people we serve to mere numbers. Many of our participants have already been dehumanized by the prison system, identified only by a number. We aim to build meaningful, transformational relationships that empower individuals and foster real change.

While larger state organizations often receive substantial funding, their impact tends to be less direct compared to the deep, community-centric work done by grassroots organizations. Smaller organizations like ours take the time to invest in the communities we serve, resulting in tangible, life-changing outcomes, but usually need more resources to achieve sustainable growth.

Consider the story of Terrance, a participant who graduated from our program and secured a junior developer position at a technology company, earning over $70,000 a year. This opportunity not only transformed his life but also inspired those around him. Another alumnus, Joseph, pursued his passion for artistry and now serves as our T.R.A.P. instructor, teaching therapeutic writing and artist development while inspiring N.Y.C. youth daily.

Emergent Works has graduated 222 participants through our collective programs, achieving a remarkably low recidivism rate of just 4 percent. Over 71 percent of our graduates have secured employment, with 57 percent working in digital, administrative, and leadership roles. These statistics are not just numbers; they represent lives changed, families uplifted, and communities strengthened. The work of grassroots organizations is about more than just statistics; it’s about the lives we touch and the futures we help shape. Sustainable funding is crucial for us to continue making this impact. We need to reach more people without sacrificing the deep, transformational relationships that make our work effective.

Funders should recognize the unique value of grassroots organizations and continue their support. By investing in grassroots efforts, you are not just funding programs; you are fueling the dreams and potential of individuals who have the power to change their communities and the world.

Let’s continue supporting and uplifting grassroots organizations making a real difference.