Brooklyn Org has appointed Timothy "Tim" Simons as Board Co-Chair as the organization begins a new fiscal year, succeeding Nicole Gueron, who has served in the role since 2020 and will remain on the Board of Directors.
Simons will serve alongside Board Co-Chair Michael Gillespie in helping guide Brooklyn Org's strategic direction and philanthropic mission.
A Brooklyn native, Simons joined the Board of Directors in 2023 and brings more than 20 years of experience in public policy, government relations, financial services and tax strategy. He is co-founder of Forethought Advisors LLC, a government relations firm specializing in housing finance and financial services policy, and founder of Simonsgroup Tax Advisory.
“Tim brings a remarkable combination of strategic vision, public policy expertise, and an enduring commitment to expanding opportunity for communities," said Dr. Jocelynne Rainey, president and chief executive officer of Brooklyn Org. "As we build a new generation of Brooklyn givers and deepen investment in community-led solutions, Tim's leadership will help ensure Brooklyn Org continues to inspire people to invest in the future of our borough.”
His previous leadership roles include Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation, Weeksville Heritage Center and the former Brooklyn Historical Society, now the Center for Brooklyn History.
He also helped establish the Office of Minority and Women Inclusion through federal legislation and led development of the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco's $100 million Quality Jobs Fund to expand access to quality jobs in underserved communities.
The appointment comes as Brooklyn Org continues investing in nonprofits and community-led initiatives across the borough. The organization oversees more than $150 million in assets under management, including nearly 200 donor-advised funds, supporting programs that strengthen neighborhoods and expand opportunities for Brooklyn residents.
The leadership transition follows a period of growth that included Brooklyn Org's evolution from Brooklyn Community Foundation and the rollout of a new strategic plan centered on community philanthropy. During Gueron's tenure, the organization broadened its impact and increased support for nonprofit organizations serving Brooklyn communities.
Looking ahead, Simons will work with the Board of Directors and President and CEO Dr. Jocelynne Rainey to oversee Brooklyn Org's strategic priorities, strengthen partnerships with donors and nonprofit organizations, and help guide future investments that benefit communities across Brooklyn.
