Discover Non-Government Organizations in Brooklyn, NY dedicated to supporting and empowering your community. Our directory features organizations committed to addressing the unique needs and challenges of the community through advocacy, programs, and services.
Serving the Brooklyn, NY-based global community, the Women and Gender Constituency represents a movement rooted in the belief that gender justice and climate justice are inseparable. Founded in 2009 by five pioneering organizations including Women in Europe for a Common Future (WECF), ENERGIA, Gender CC, LIFE e.V., and WEDO, the WGC emerged from a vision to connect gender justice advocates with the global climate policy process. Today, the organization embodies a collective commitment to building power through feminist organizing principles: decentralized, collaborative, and designed to last. The WGC's mission centers on advancing feminist climate action by embedding gender-just policies within the UNFCCC and beyond, guided by core values including bodily autonomy, racial justice, intersectionality, and community-led solutions over corporate control. Members of the WGC represent diverse backgrounds and regions, united by their dedication to ensuring that those most affected by climate change lead the solutions. The organization provides a platform for accredited NGO observers and grassroots activists to participate in UN climate negotiations, coordinate shared strategy, and strengthen collective advocacy. Through their regional caucuses and advocacy collective, the WGC connects local movements with global climate policy, amplifying the voices of women, girls, and gender-diverse people. As a coordinated network stewarded by WEDO, the WGC continues to challenge extractive and patriarchal economic models while advancing transformative, scalable climate solutions grounded in gender equality, food sovereignty, and just transitions.
The Ms. Foundation for Women stands as a vital force for social justice in Brooklyn, NY, driven by a profound belief in women's collective power to transform society. Founded on the conviction that equity and inclusion form the foundation of true democracy, the organization invests in and strengthens women-led movements working toward meaningful change across the nation. Based in Brooklyn, the Ms. Foundation for Women recognizes that every person's worth and dignity must be valued in creating a just and safe world.
With deep roots in the Brooklyn community and national reach, the Ms. Foundation for Women partners with women-led organizations to advance social, cultural, and economic progress. The foundation's values reflect a commitment to breaking down barriers that limit opportunity based on gender, race, class, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or age. By centering the voices and leadership of women most impacted by inequality, the Ms. Foundation for Women creates pathways for systemic change. This Brooklyn-based organization believes that building women's power is essential to achieving equity and justice for all, making it a cornerstone institution for those committed to democratic values and inclusive progress.
Founded in 1972 and rooted in the Greenpoint neighborhood of Brooklyn, NY, the Polish & Slavic Center stands as the largest Polish-American organization on the East Coast, serving as a beacon for immigrants and their families seeking both practical support and cultural continuity. This nonprofit, community-driven organization was established on the belief that outstanding results are achieved through strong member engagement and partnership. The Center's mission extends far beyond traditional social services—it represents a commitment to preserving and celebrating Polish and Slavic heritage while actively integrating newcomers into the broader New York community. By offering comprehensive social and legal assistance programs alongside enriching cultural experiences, the Polish & Slavic Center creates a unique space where individuals can access essential resources while maintaining connection to their cultural roots. The organization's approach recognizes that immigrants and underserved populations thrive when they have both practical support and community belonging. With a membership exceeding 40,000 people, the Center has built a powerful network of individuals united by shared heritage and mutual support. As a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, it operates with transparency and dedication to serving the Brooklyn and greater New York community. The Polish & Slavic Center embodies the values of cultural pride, community solidarity, and practical compassion in action.
Based in Brooklyn, NY, the Audre Lorde Project serves as a home base for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Two-Spirit, Trans, and Gender Non-Conforming People of Color seeking to organize, support one another, and advocate for their communities. Established in 1994 out of a collective vision to address the unique challenges facing LGBTSTGNC People of Color, the organization has become a cornerstone of community care and resistance in New York City. The Audre Lorde Project is deeply rooted in the principle of struggling across differences—bringing together people of African, Black Caribbean, Arab, Asian Pacific Islander, Latinx, and Native/Indigenous descent to build solidarity around shared experiences of oppression and liberation. Committed to centering women's leadership and perspectives throughout its structure and work, the organization actively challenges the historic role of sexism that has undermined community strength. The Audre Lorde Project believes that the most powerful organizing emerges when communities themselves drive decision-making and shape the programs that serve them. Named in honor of the visionary Black lesbian poet and activist Audre Lorde, the organization embodies her legacy of intersectional resistance and community care. Through its work in Brooklyn and across the five boroughs, the Audre Lorde Project remains dedicated to creating transformative spaces where LGBTSTGNC People of Color can heal, organize, and collectively build toward a more just world.
For over forty years, the Federation of Italian American Organizations of Brooklyn has been a unifying force across New York's diverse communities, dedicated to preserving Italian American heritage while building bridges across cultures. Operating Il Centro Community Center in Brooklyn, the organization's mission centers on honoring the legacy of Italian Americans while creating inclusive spaces where all residents can celebrate their own heritage and connect with one another. The Federation's commitment to community extends beyond recreational activities to encompassing social services, legal support, and counseling that empower residents to access the resources they need. Il Centro reflects this holistic approach, serving as a gathering place where children learn life-saving swimming skills, families bond through sports and arts, seniors stay active and engaged, and individuals access vital social services and legal assistance. The organization takes pride in honoring Italian traditions, notably preserving the legacy of the Brooklyn Columbus Day Parade while simultaneously embracing the multicultural fabric of Brooklyn. With a philosophy of "Embrace, Reflect, Connect," the Federation offers free programs and services designed to help all residents experience the benefits of community life. The organization's impact is evident in its 3,000 active members and annual service to over 7,000 people, demonstrating how a single institution can strengthen generational bonds, foster cross-cultural understanding, and create genuine community in Brooklyn, NY. Il Centro stands as a testament to the Federation's belief that strong communities thrive when people of all backgrounds come together.
Based in New York, the Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI) represents a collaborative international movement dedicated to protecting and promoting the fundamental rights and freedoms of the Iranian people. The organization brings together award-winning journalists, researchers, lawyers, activists, writers, and multimedia specialists from around the world who share a commitment to human rights advocacy and accountability. What distinguishes CHRI is its unique model of combining international expertise with direct connections to independent investigators and human rights defenders operating inside Iran, creating a bridge between on-the-ground realities and the international community.
CHRI's mission extends beyond documentation to meaningful impact through strategic partnerships with activists, civil society organizations, and international bodies worldwide. The organization believes in the power of accurate information and compelling storytelling to drive awareness and change, which is why it invests in producing diverse content formats—from traditional reports and articles to innovative multimedia projects and interactive platforms. By serving as a trusted voice on Iranian human rights issues, CHRI empowers journalists, policymakers, and citizens with the information needed to understand complex human rights challenges and advocate for meaningful reform. The organization's commitment to independence and nonpartisan analysis ensures that all stakeholders in the New York-based center work toward a shared vision of advancing basic rights and freedoms for the Iranian people while maintaining accountability to international human rights standards.
Rooted in Brooklyn's diverse cultural landscape, the Norwegian Immigration Association, Inc. emerged in 1995 from a grassroots vision to honor and celebrate the Norwegian immigrants who shaped the greater New York community. What began as a community-driven effort to preserve a fading heritage has evolved into a meaningful organization dedicated to keeping Norwegian-American history alive for future generations. The NIA reaches across the region to connect with Norwegian-American residents and former residents, building relationships and gathering the stories, artifacts, and memories that form the foundation of their mission. Operating with deep community ties, the organization recognizes that by the time of its founding, relatively few Norwegians remained in the area, making their preservation work even more vital. The Norwegian Immigration Association, Inc. believes that every immigrant story matters and that understanding this shared heritage strengthens the cultural fabric of Brooklyn and the surrounding New York region. Through educational and cultural events, exhibits, and community engagement, they create spaces where people can explore their roots, learn about their ancestors' journeys, and connect with others who value Norwegian-American heritage. Their commitment extends beyond archival work to fostering genuine community relationships and ensuring that the contributions of Norwegian immigrants are recognized and celebrated.
Based in Brooklyn, NY, the Black Alliance for Just Immigration serves as a vital organizing hub for African American and Black immigrant communities seeking to advance their collective power and vision for justice. BAJI's work is rooted in the belief that grassroots organizing, combined with strategic coalition-building, can transform systems and create lasting social change. The organization educates and engages community members through vibrant dialogues that explore the intersections of race, identity, migration, and globalization—topics central to the lived experiences of Black communities. With organizing committees active in New York, Georgia, California, and Florida, and staff presence in Texas and Minnesota, BAJI demonstrates a deep commitment to building sustained relationships across multiple regions. The organization recognizes the prophetic power of faith communities and actively works to harness their voice in the struggle for racial justice. BAJI's approach combines capacity-building with direct action, providing training and technical assistance to partner organizations while simultaneously initiating campaigns that push for systemic change. By fostering connections between diverse segments of the Black diaspora and supporting grassroots leaders, BAJI creates the conditions for community members to discover their own power and agency. The organization's presence in Brooklyn and across the country reflects its understanding that racial justice requires coordinated, sustained effort rooted in authentic community relationships and shared vision for transformation.
Serving the Brooklyn, NY-based global community, the Women and Gender Constituency represents a movement rooted in the belief that gender justice and climate justice are inseparable. Founded in 2009 by five pioneering organizations including Women in Europe for a Common Future (WECF), ENERGIA, Gender CC, LIFE e.V., and WEDO, the WGC emerged from a vision to connect gender justice advocates with the global climate policy process. Today, the organization embodies a collective commitment to building power through feminist organizing principles: decentralized, collaborative, and designed to last. The WGC's mission centers on advancing feminist climate action by embedding gender-just policies within the UNFCCC and beyond, guided by core values including bodily autonomy, racial justice, intersectionality, and community-led solutions over corporate control. Members of the WGC represent diverse backgrounds and regions, united by their dedication to ensuring that those most affected by climate change lead the solutions. The organization provides a platform for accredited NGO observers and grassroots activists to participate in UN climate negotiations, coordinate shared strategy, and strengthen collective advocacy. Through their regional caucuses and advocacy collective, the WGC connects local movements with global climate policy, amplifying the voices of women, girls, and gender-diverse people. As a coordinated network stewarded by WEDO, the WGC continues to challenge extractive and patriarchal economic models while advancing transformative, scalable climate solutions grounded in gender equality, food sovereignty, and just transitions.
The Ms. Foundation for Women stands as a vital force for social justice in Brooklyn, NY, driven by a profound belief in women's collective power to transform society. Founded on the conviction that equity and inclusion form the foundation of true democracy, the organization invests in and strengthens women-led movements working toward meaningful change across the nation. Based in Brooklyn, the Ms. Foundation for Women recognizes that every person's worth and dignity must be valued in creating a just and safe world.
With deep roots in the Brooklyn community and national reach, the Ms. Foundation for Women partners with women-led organizations to advance social, cultural, and economic progress. The foundation's values reflect a commitment to breaking down barriers that limit opportunity based on gender, race, class, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or age. By centering the voices and leadership of women most impacted by inequality, the Ms. Foundation for Women creates pathways for systemic change. This Brooklyn-based organization believes that building women's power is essential to achieving equity and justice for all, making it a cornerstone institution for those committed to democratic values and inclusive progress.
Founded in 1972 and rooted in the Greenpoint neighborhood of Brooklyn, NY, the Polish & Slavic Center stands as the largest Polish-American organization on the East Coast, serving as a beacon for immigrants and their families seeking both practical support and cultural continuity. This nonprofit, community-driven organization was established on the belief that outstanding results are achieved through strong member engagement and partnership. The Center's mission extends far beyond traditional social services—it represents a commitment to preserving and celebrating Polish and Slavic heritage while actively integrating newcomers into the broader New York community. By offering comprehensive social and legal assistance programs alongside enriching cultural experiences, the Polish & Slavic Center creates a unique space where individuals can access essential resources while maintaining connection to their cultural roots. The organization's approach recognizes that immigrants and underserved populations thrive when they have both practical support and community belonging. With a membership exceeding 40,000 people, the Center has built a powerful network of individuals united by shared heritage and mutual support. As a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, it operates with transparency and dedication to serving the Brooklyn and greater New York community. The Polish & Slavic Center embodies the values of cultural pride, community solidarity, and practical compassion in action.