Council Connection: Updates for Council Members

Public policy news and updates for the philanthropic sector

Happening at the Council

Building Together 2026

Registration for Building Together 2026 opened this week. Building Together is a sector-wide gathering for people working in philanthropy who are eager to connect and collaborate across differences. This is a dynamic learning experience where you’ll build the skills, strategies, and relationships needed to navigate divides and strengthen our shared future. Join us in Seattle, May 4-7, 2026!

Wondering if Building Together is for you? Want to get a better idea of what it’s like and what you’ll learn? Join us December 4, 2:30-3 p.m. ET to hear more about the conference — with lots of time for your questions.

What We're Tracking in DC

Federal Government Shutdown Comes to an End

On November 12, the House passed a continuing resolution and minibus package of appropriations bills, marking the end to the longest government shutdown in U.S. history.

The passed package includes the Legislative Branch, Military Construction – Veterans Affairs, and Agriculture - Rural Development - FDA Appropriations bills; an extension of the remaining government funding through January 30, 2026; a provision that would revoke the terminations of government workers that occurred during the shutdown; and other key authorities. The passage of the package leaves Congress with nine appropriations bills to pass before the new funding deadline in January.

Happening in the States

Partnerships to Support Nonprofits

The impact of the federal government shutdown, along with changes to federal grants and contracts, have affected charitable nonprofits around the country. Many are also bracing for, or are already experiencing, an increase in demand for services. In response, foundations are distributing grants to support local nonprofits and amplify their impact.

  • Illinois: The Moline Regional Community Foundation will award $500,000 to local nonprofits after reviewing $3.4 million in requests from nearly 90 nonprofits.
  • Ohio: The Columbus Foundation announced $500,000 in grants to food pantries. These will be awarded to 21 nonprofits “tackling food insecurity across Central Ohio.”
  • Wisconsin: The Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin launched a Formula and Food Insecurities Fund to distribute grants to nonprofits in select counties. An estimated 3,800 families receiving Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) benefits in those counties are at risk of losing funding, including 500 infants.

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Keep in Touch!

Please feel free to reach out to any of us on the Government Relations Team with comments or concerns, or to share an issue, article, event, or op-ed you would like to see covered in a future Washington Snapshot.

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