PoliticsNY & amNY Metro: The 2025 Nonprofit Power Players

Published in: PoliticsNY

PoliticsNY and amNY are proud to present the 2025 Nonprofit Power Players list. The leaders highlighted on this year’s list are the driving forces behind a variety of programs and initiatives improving the lives of New Yorkers from all walks of life. Focusing on important issues such as education access, race and gender equity, immigrant justice, affordable housing, food insecurity and more, the 2025 Nonprofit Power Players are vital leaders in the fight for a better New York for all.

Jocelynne Rainey

President and CEO, Brooklyn Org

Dr. Jocelynne Rainey is redefining philanthropy and civic engagement as president and CEO of Brooklyn Org. She has refocused the organization on mobilizing broad local giving to drive greater resources to the community. Previously, she was a part of the executive team that transformed the Brooklyn Navy Yard into a hub of small business growth and opportunity for underserved New Yorkers. With experience spanning corporate and nonprofit sectors, Dr. Rainey exemplifies the values of responsible leadership.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone starting out in your field?

Lead with listening. Spend time in the community, not just behind a desk, and let people’s lived experiences shape your work. This work is about people – their needs, dreams, and resilience. Build relationships, ask for mentorship early, and remember that collaboration builds impact. And protect your energy. This is marathon work, and your well-being is part of your impact, too.

How can policymakers and everyday New Yorkers support your organization?

If we want a fairer, more inclusive New York, we must listen to what New Yorkers say they need to guide budgets, programs, and priorities. That means pursuing creative solutions to address the high cost of housing and child care, and the mental health crisis. We need to support our local nonprofits on the frontlines of all these issues because when national solutions fail, local action becomes the most powerful tool for change.

What are your organization’s goals for 2026?

Brooklyn Org has launched the “Brooklyn Backs Brooklyn” campaign to support frontline nonprofits through this time of unprecedented economic upheaval, political polarization, and federal funding cuts. Brooklyn Org is committed to raising $5 million so that we can expand our community grants by 25% over the next year. Brooklyn Org will expand the capacity-building support we offer to nonprofits and continue serving as the independent voice for all of Brooklyn.