ABOUT THE BOOK

The Nicholson Foundation started work in 2002 with one, clear mission. Our goal was to improve the lives of vulnerable populations in New Jersey by addressing shortcomings in the array of systems meant to help them—in social and human service systems and education. We wanted to make a difference for people whose lives are dominated by a struggle to obtain the basics—nutritious food, adequate housing and transportation, quality education, work, sufficient and appropriate healthcare, and the assurance of safety.

We thought in terms not just of people today, but of the generations that will keep being born into the struggle, until we learn to ameliorate the effects of poverty. It is by changing systems that we can work to help everyone—those here today, and the many more coming along tomorrow.

Over our 20-year history, this mission remained our guiding star. The ways in which we put it into action, however, evolved. And along the way, we learned a lot. In November 2021, a month before the Foundation concluded operations, we published Changing Systems, Changing Lives: Reflecting on 20 Years. The book describes a selection of Nicholson Foundation projects. A comprehensive listing of our grantees and contractors is available here. A listing of our publications is available here.

Click the icons below for a preview of the observations, lessons, and key takeaways contained in individual chapters in the book. You can also download the complete book or request a print copy.