Community Voices Heard: A Nonprofit Feature

Community Voices Heard (CVH), a nonprofit organization, has been a vital force in advocating for racial, social, and economic justice for People of Color and those living in low-income communities in New York since 1994. Born from the commitment of eight women in 1994, CVH gives voice to people who are marginalized by systems designed to keep them in poverty. Their work recognizes the intersectionality of politics and community and addresses crucial areas like housing, healthcare, education, and democracy, aiming to build power within the very communities they serve. 

As Juanita Lewis, Executive Director of CVH, says, “Just because we are on public assistance doesn’t mean we don’t deserve to be heard and to have a say on the policies that impact our lives.” 

Thirty years later, CVH has evolved into a member-led organization that tackles challenging issues through grassroots organizing, leadership development, and advocacy for policy changes that benefit all New Yorkers. Their reach extends to communities across New York, including Westchester County, Orange County, the Bronx, and more. They have been committed to amplifying the voices of People of Color living on low incomes by ensuring they have a seat at the table when decisions are made. The needs of their members inform their initiatives through listening campaigns, a method of gathering input directly from the community to guide their policy agendas. 

“Organizing is an art and a skill. We don’t make assumptions about what our community needs. We go out and listen to people and hear what they care about,” says Juanita.  

CVH’s approach to organizing also prioritizes nonpartisan voter education, ensuring that residents understand the issues and candidates they are voting for. By connecting community members with the political process, CVH helps them make informed choices that impact their daily lives.

“Making the connection between the issues people care about and the election is a core part of our work,” Juanita explains. 

For example, CVH’s Training Program for Organizing offers community members hands-on leadership development through intensive day-long or multi-day workshops. These trainings empower members to become organizers in their own right, equipping them with the tools to start local campaigns and build movements that ignite real change.

As CVH continues to expand its reach and impact, we are honored to support their work. As one of the few community banks in NY, we understand the unique financial needs of nonprofit organizations like CVH and are committed to providing the services and support that help them thrive.

“With Spring Bank, we know we have access to a group of bankers who care about our work as a nonprofit organization focused on community,” Juanita shares. 

Through our nonprofit checking account services, we work with organizations to manage their finances efficiently and sustainably. We recognize that nonprofits often have to make critical financial decisions to maintain their operations and grow their impact. We are here to ensure they have the tools to succeed, by providing access to our checking accounts online.

To celebrate their incredible legacy, CVH invites you to their Lights of Freedom Gala, a night honoring their history and extraordinary work over the past 30 years. This event is a celebration and an opportunity to bring together leaders in the social justice community, elected officials, and supporters for a night of reflection, empowerment, and hope for the future. We are proud to be a sponsor of the Lights of Freedom Gala. You can also become a part of their movement. Whether you’re interested in becoming a member or participating in their next campaign, there’s no better time to help build the next era of community organizing in New York State. 

At Spring Bank, we’re dedicated to supporting organizations like Community Voices Heard that create real, meaningful change in our communities. As one of the leading community banks in NY, we believe in the power of grassroots movements to create lasting change, and CVH’s mission resonates deeply with our commitment to uplift the Bronx and beyond. If you are a nonprofit looking for a financial partner that understands your needs, consider opening a nonprofit checking accounts online with us today.