Please join us in celebrating Make the Road New York’s
selection as one of ten semifinalists in the New York Times Company’s third
annual Nonprofit Excellence Awards for 2009. These prestigious awards honor
outstanding management practices and are designed to encourage innovation and
communication among New York’s
nonprofit community.

This recognition would not have been possible without the
incredible support of our dedicated members, hardworking staff and generous
contributors, and we extend our sincerest thanks. We look forward to
celebrating this achievment with over 800 members at our second annual
Membership Assembly on March 14.

In 2007, The Nonprofit Coordinating Committee of New York (NPCC) and the
New York Regional Association of Grantmakers (NYRAG) joined the Times Company
in establishing this program. All nonprofit organizations based in and serving New York City, Long Island, and Westchester
are eligible to apply. Make the Road New York and the other nine semifinalists
were selected from among 86 applicants based on excellent management practices.

"Make the Road New York not only meets the immediate
needs of low-income and immigrant populations, but also empowers those
individuals to sustain and support their communities on a long-term
basis," said Oona Chatterjee, Co-Executive Director for Make the Road New
York.

"We are thrilled that the New York Times Company, NPCC,
and NYRAG recognize the value of our innovative, member-led management model
and its effectiveness in enabling low-income New Yorkers to become the driving
force behind public policy decisions that affect their children, their
families, and their communities.

"It is an honor to be considered alongside such an
impressive group of our peers among leading New York non-profits, and we congratulate
all the semifinalists on their achievements and good work."

Up to four organizations will be awarded a total of $40,000,
with winners to be announced in June 2009. The winner for Overall Management
Excellence will be awarded $25,000. Additional awards will be presented for
outstanding performance in one or more other key areas of nonprofit management
including: overall management focus on results; governance structure that moves
the organization forward; strong, transparent and accountable financial
management; inclusive, diverse, and responsive organizational practices;
enlightened use of human resources and technology; regular and effective communications;
and effective, ethical fundraising and resource development. Each of the
winning organizations also will receive a scholarship to The Institute for
Not-for-Profit Management at Columbia Business School Executive Education.