LOCH SHELDRAKE – New Hope Community, a not-for-profit organization providing supports and services that empower the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, has announced the appointment of Thomas Burnham as Executive Director of the NHC Foundation, effective April 13, 2020.
Prior to joining the NHC Foundation, Burnham served as Assistant Vice President for Development and Environmental Policy at The Center for Discovery, a human services agency for adults and children in Harris, NY. During his 21-year tenure at the agency, he held key development positions and spearheaded the organization’s sustainability and energy conservation initiatives. Tom first began his career as a direct support provider and residential supervisor with The Center.
“We are excited to welcome Tom to our New Hope Community family,” said Debra McGinness, Chief Executive Officer of New Hope Community. “Tom’s impressive track record demonstrates an excellent philanthropic skillset, unstoppable drive, and a commitment to advancing life’s best opportunities for people with complex needs. We are thrilled to have him on our team!”
Burnham sees many short-term opportunities for philanthropic growth at New Hope and is evaluating other programmatic needs and opportunities. He cites existing partnerships, high-quality programs, and the commitment of New Hope’s staff and leadership as strong assets that appeal to donors and funders.
“New Hope Community has a sterling reputation for excellence in the industry,” Burnham observed. “I am looking forward to building new relationships and working with the Foundation Board as we develop our philanthropic efforts.”
Early in his career, he served as a Development Associate with Bancroft, a provider of intellectual and developmental programs and services in Haddonfield, N.J.
Burnham earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Gettysburg College, is a Chairperson of the Town of Goshen Environmental Review Board, and a member of the Executive Committee of Eastern United States Pipe Band Association.
He resides in Goshen with his wife Liz, children Caroline and Tommy, and dog Ralph.
