BLRR Buffalo is a member-led abolitionist organization dedicated to building resilient, racially just communities across Buffalo. Founded in 2017, the group develops leadership among Black and Brown residents, engages in political education, healing justice, and transformative organizing, and actively campaigns to divest from policing - most notably through legal action against the BPD Strike Force. BLRR hosts community events, trainings, and works to reduce the harms of carceral systems while promoting alternative models of safety.

Buffalo Community Fridge is a grassroots, 100% volunteer-led mutual aid network of community fridges dedicated to giving Buffalo communities access to fresh and healthy food. Fridges are located at 286 East Ferry, 45 Jewett Avenue and 167 Herkimer Street. The mission is to build stronger community bonds, eliminate food waste, and address food insecurity in Buffalo, New York. Take what you need, leave what you don’t.

Buffalo Democratic Socialists of America (Buffalo DSA) is a chapter of the national DSA, organizing in Buffalo around democratic socialism, labor solidarity, housing justice, climate action, and anti-racism. Through direct action, mutual aid, political education, and electoral campaigns, Buffalo DSA works to build a more equitable, democratic, and liberated society.

The Buffalo Housing Justice Coalition is a grassroots alliance of tenants, organizers, legal advocates, and housing service providers fighting for safe, dignified, and affordable housing across Buffalo. BHJC works to stop evictions, expand tenant protections, and build long-term housing justice through policy advocacy, public education, and direct action. The coalition meets regularly to coordinate campaigns, share resources, and support tenant organizing across the city.

Jewish Voice for Peace Buffalo is a local chapter of the national JVP movement, committed to Palestinian liberation, anti-Zionism, and solidarity with all struggles against colonialism, white supremacy, and militarism. Rooted in Jewish traditions of justice, the group organizes educational events, direct actions, and community campaigns in support of human rights and freedom for all people.

Buffalo Mutual Aid Network is a volunteer-led collective focused on grassroots care and solidarity across Buffalo. They coordinate initiatives like meal distributions, supply drives, and offer support to community members in need - prioritizing direct mutual aid over traditional charity.

Buffalo Branch NAACP is the local chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, committed to securing political, educational, social, and economic equality for all people, and eliminating race-based discrimination. Through advocacy, civic engagement, youth development, and community organizing, the Buffalo NAACP works to protect civil rights and advance justice across Western New York.

The Buffalo-Niagara Palestine Solidarity March is a grassroots annual action organized to demonstrate solidarity with Palestinian resistance to occupation, genocide, and apartheid. The march covers 25 miles - from Niagara Square in Buffalo to Niagara Falls State Park - mirroring the length of the Gaza coastline.

The 2025 march is raising funds for Refugee Alliance International, a Western New York–based, Palestinian-run nonprofit providing critical medical aid to evacuees from Gaza. The campaign goal is $9,000, the approximate cost of one above-the-knee prosthetic for a survivor of Israeli attacks.

Participants are welcome to walk, bike, or roll for part or all of the route. The event also includes volunteer and fundraising opportunities, and seeks co-sponsoring organizations, speakers, chant leaders, and artists to support morale and education throughout the day.

Sign up | Donate | More info

Buffalo Peacemakers is the youth violence and gang intervention arm of Back to Basics Outreach Ministries, active in Buffalo since the 1990s. Rooted in a public-health approach, the program uses street engagement teams, mentoring (HEAT: Health, Empowerment, Attitude, Teamwork), restorative circles, and Safe Passage routes to prevent violence and support at-risk youth (ages 14–24). Led by individuals with lived experience, they also provide conflict mediation, grief counseling after shootings, and organize community events like prayer vigils and SNUG Day. Peacemakers partner with schools, libraries, law enforcement, and churches under a coordinated model of community safety

Workers World Party is a revolutionary socialist organization that fights for the liberation of the working class and oppressed peoples in the U.S. and around the world. Rooted in Marxist-Leninist principles, WWP organizes around anti-imperialism, anti-racism, labor rights, and solidarity with global liberation movements. Through grassroots organizing, political education, and direct action, they work to build a world free from capitalism, colonialism, and all forms of oppression.

The Center for Elder Law & Justice offers free civil legal services across Western New York, helping older adults (55+) and individuals with disabilities maintain independence and dignity. Their services cover elder abuse prevention and advocacy, healthcare and Medicaid guidance, housing stability, consumer protection, guardianship, kinship care, and specialized LGBTQ+ support through their Aging with Pride initiative. Multiple offices serve Erie and surrounding counties, and a statewide senior helpline is available.

Rooted in the Christian principles of unity, peace, and the sanctity of human life, the Christian Peace Collective of WNY advocates for true and lasting peace in the Middle East. The collective calls for an end to U.S.-backed Israeli apartheid and the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians, engaging in public witness, education, and solidarity actions grounded in faith and justice.

cpcwny.substack.com

Citizen Action of New York is a grassroots membership organization dedicated to fighting for social, racial, economic, and environmental justice across New York State. With chapters in cities like Buffalo, Rochester, and Albany, they organize around issues such as education equity, affordable housing, healthcare for all, climate justice, and political reform. Through community organizing, leadership development, and bold advocacy, Citizen Action builds power to challenge systems of oppression and create a New York that works for everyone.

Citizens for Regional Transit is a Buffalo-based advocacy organization dedicated to improving and expanding public transit in Western New York. CRT promotes accessible, equitable, and sustainable transportation solutions by pushing for better bus service, regional rail, and infrastructure investments that serve the needs of all communities. Their work includes policy advocacy, public education, and coalition-building to create a more connected and transit-friendly Buffalo region.

The Clean Air Coalition builds power by developing grassroots leaders who organize their communities to run and win environmental justice and public health campaigns in Western New York.

Clean Mobility Buffalo is a community-driven coalition based on Buffalo’s East Side, working to make transportation cleaner, healthier, and more equitable. Through a $10 million NY Clean Transportation Prizes investment, they’ve launched projects like an e-bike library, e-bike share system, bike trail revitalization, and street safety improvements. The initiative centers neighborhood voices and leadership to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, expand transportation access, and support local job and climate justice efforts.

Coalition for Economic Justice (CEJ) is a Buffalo-based organization that builds power with workers and low-income communities to fight for economic and social justice. Through grassroots campaigns, leadership development, and strategic advocacy, CEJ organizes around issues like fair wages, workers’ rights, housing justice, and equitable economic policies that center marginalized communities.

Colored Girls Bike Too is a Black women‑ and gender‑nonconforming‑led cycling collective in Buffalo that centers mobility justice, wellness, and community through themed group rides, bike swaps, a mobility “bank,” and holistic workshops .They empower participants by reclaiming public space and dismantling barriers to transportation access, healing, and collective liberation.

American Party of Labor affiliated organizers. Combat Revisionism Buffalo is rooted in anti-revisionist Marxist-Leninist theory. They share radical political analysis, historical content, and critiques of capitalism, imperialism, and neoliberalism. Their goal is to educate, agitate, and build revolutionary consciousness in the community.

Communist Student League is a student-led organization committed to revolutionary political education and action through a Marxist-Leninist lens. Based in Buffalo, CSL organizes on and around campus to build class consciousness, critique capitalist and imperialist systems, and support liberation struggles both locally and globally. Their work includes study groups, direct action, and coalition-building with other leftist and anti-colonial movements.

East Side Parkways Coalition is a grassroots coalition advocating for the removal of the Kensington Expressway and the restoration of Humboldt Parkway as a vibrant, green, community-centered space. Centered on environmental justice, racial equity, and restorative development, the coalition uplifts the voices of East Side residents and works to reconnect neighborhoods divided by decades of harmful infrastructure.

East Side Stewards is a worker-led cooperative focused on community-led revitalization of Buffalo’s East Side. They transform vacant lots into green spaces, operate a sliding-scale Fresh Food Market, and run youth development programs like Buffalo Keepers and Junior Bison to nurture environmental leadership. The organization also offers consulting services and hosts volunteer events and educational workshops on sustainability and community empowerment.

Equality New York (EQNY) is the largest grassroots LGBTQIA2S+ advocacy organization in New York State. The Buffalo chapter works locally to influence state legislation, organize rallies and advocacy days, and connect the community through trainings and social events. They welcome new members and provide updates via Linktree and social media.

Erie County Democratic Committee (ECDems) is the largest political organization in Western New York and provides resources for direct political involvement. Their site includes information on how to run for office, become a committee member, serve as an election inspector, volunteer for campaigns, register voters, and engage with the local democratic process.

Erie County Green Party is the local chapter of the Green Party, focused on grassroots democracy, social justice, ecological sustainability, and nonviolence. They support progressive candidates, organize around local and global issues, and advocate for policies that put people and the planet before profit.

The Erie County Restorative Justice Coalition promotes social and racial justice in Western New York by advancing restorative practices in schools, courts, and communities. Since its founding in 2013, ECRJC has facilitated restorative circles and conferences, provided training and technical support to educators and community stakeholders, and offered safe spaces for youth and residents to address harm and resolve conflict. They work collaboratively with local institutions to foster accountability, healing, and stronger relationships across Erie County.

The Tesla Takedown: Buffalo is a direct action and protest event calling out the exploitation, broken promises, and systemic harm caused by Tesla’s operations in Buffalo—particularly at the Buffalo Gigafactory. Organized by a coalition of local activists and labor advocates, the action highlights issues such as worker mistreatment, failed job creation promises, and the broader harms of corporate greenwashing. The event stands in solidarity with workers and communities fighting for real climate justice, economic equity, and democratic accountability.

Free the People WNY is a grassroots coalition of formerly incarcerated individuals, organizers, and attorneys working to end mass incarceration and build community-powered public safety in Western New York. Their “No New Jail” campaign opposes proposals for a new Erie County jail - highlighting systemic issues like jail deaths and pretrial detention - and pushes for redirecting funds into mental health care, housing, youth programs, and restorative justice initiatives. They host monthly coalition meetings, public forums, and working groups focused on city, county, and state policy advocacy.

GLYS Western New York, Inc. (formerly Gay & Lesbian Youth Services) provides support, advocacy, and safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults throughout Western New York. Through youth drop-in centers, mentorship, educational programming, and community outreach, GLYS empowers queer youth to thrive, express themselves authentically, and connect with affirming peers and resources.

Housing Opportunities Made Equal (HOME) is a Buffalo-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting fair housing and combating housing discrimination in Western New York. Since 1963, HOME has worked to ensure that all people - regardless of race, gender, income, disability, or background - have equal access to housing. They provide education, advocacy, legal support, and assistance for individuals experiencing housing discrimination, while working to dismantle systemic barriers in the housing market.

Justice for Migrant Families Western New York is a grassroots organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for the rights and dignity of immigrants, asylum seekers, and detained individuals in Western New York. They provide direct support to families impacted by detention, offer community education, and organize for systemic change in immigration policy and enforcement.

A grassroots campaign demanding the exoneration of Geraldine Pointer and Martin Sostre, two former political prisoners wrongfully convicted in Buffalo. The campaign builds on their legacy through abolitionist organizing, public education, mural creation, and reclaiming historic space at 1412 Jefferson Ave.

Kinfolk seeks to shift the perspective of Blackness from an individual perspective into a unified community with Maat, Integrity, & Nutrients. Kinfolk creates local mutual‑aid collective in Buffalo to offers food, clothing, and community support through grassroots organizing and pop-up drives. Centered on care and communal uplift, they welcome all Buffalo residents to participate, donate, or volunteer. 

The Buffalo–Niagara chapter of the League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan civic organization dedicated to empowering voters and defending democracy through voter education, registration, and advocacy for equitable policies. They host candidate forums, maintain the Vote411 platform, and encourage informed participation in elections. LWVBN also collaborates with local organizations to promote civic engagement and inclusivity at all levels of government.

The Legal Aid Bureau provides free civil and criminal legal representation to low-income individuals throughout Erie County. Their services include defense in criminal cases, assistance with housing (eviction defense, unsafe living conditions), family law, employment and consumer rights, reentry services, immigration support, and protection for LGBTQ+ rights such as name changes and discrimination claims.

Let’s Talk About It Buffalo is a community-based discussion series aimed at helping people better understand current events, local issues, and grassroots organizing. The group creates space for open dialogue, political education, and connection to local activism. Meetings often include researched news briefings, resource sharing, and guest speakers, with suggested donations supporting local organizations.

LOLA, which stands for Liberation for One, Liberation for All, is a Buffalo-based collective formed in response to the ongoing genocides in Palestine, Congo, and Sudan. Rooted in global solidarity, LOLA works to connect local organizing with broader liberation movements by challenging white supremacy, colonialism, and capitalism. Through rallies, teach-ins, and political actions, LOLA creates spaces for learning, resistance, and community care. Their mission is to build an environment where people of all ethnicities, nationalities, and identities can understand one another, engage in critical conversations, and act collectively. 

A grassroots collective committed to harm reduction, protest safety, and mutual aid in Buffalo. Mask Bloc Buffalo provides free PPE, medical supplies, and protective support at direct actions and community events, with an emphasis on supporting marginalized and at-risk communities. Their work centers the principles of collective care, anti-fascism, and solidarity.

The National Lawyers Guild (NLG) is the nation’s oldest and largest progressive bar association, working to unite lawyers, law students, legal workers, and jailhouse lawyers in the service of people and the fight for justice. The Buffalo Chapter of NLG supports movements for social change by offering legal support, Know Your Rights trainings, and legal observing at protests. Their work uplifts grassroots struggles for liberation, civil rights, and democratic accountability.

NACS WNY is a culturally grounded nonprofit serving Indigenous and other community members across Western New York. They provide essential services including housing assistance, youth programming, elder support, cultural enrichment, and coordination with local health and legal agencies. Their work emphasizes community strength and cultural identity, offering both direct services and broader advocacy.

Neighborhood Legal Services is a public interest law firm serving Western New York - including Erie, Niagara, Orleans, Genesee, and Wyoming Counties - providing free civil legal aid to low-income individuals and families. Their comprehensive services include housing (eviction prevention, unsafe conditions, discrimination), family and divorce matters (custody, support, domestic violence protection), disability advocacy, public benefits, health insurance navigation, student loan assistance, and medical-legal partnerships. They offer walk-in and appointment-based support across multiple offices in Buffalo (Court St. and Main St.), Lockport, Niagara Falls, and Batavia. 

The New York Immigration Coalition is a statewide alliance of over 200 immigrant and refugee advocacy organizations, with a strong presence in Western New York. They fight for immigrant rights through policy campaigns - including Access to Representation, Language Access, and the “New York For All” initiative - and offer extensive “Know Your Rights” training, health advocacy, civic engagement support, and language-access resources. Their Buffalo-area activities include virtual forums, community toolkits, and local outreach via phonebanks and events.

Open Buffalo is a justice-centered organization working to create a more equitable and inclusive city by empowering communities through leadership development, advocacy, and grassroots organizing. Focused on racial, economic, and environmental justice, Open Buffalo supports transformative change led by those most impacted by systemic oppression.

Our City Action Buffalo (OCAB) is a grassroots political organization dedicated to building a more just and equitable Buffalo through community organizing, political engagement, and policy advocacy. OCAB supports progressive candidates, uplifts working-class and marginalized voices, and pushes for transformative change in housing, education, policing, and more - always grounded in the power of everyday people.

Partnership for the Public Good (PPG) is a community-based think tank that builds a more just, sustainable, and culturally vibrant Buffalo through policy research, civic engagement, and support for grassroots organizations. PPG partners with over 300 local groups to advance equity-driven public policy in areas like housing, criminal justice, education, and economic development. They provide accessible research, host community events, connect people to organizing opportunities, and amplify the voices of those most affected by injustice.

Peaceprints of WNY is a nonprofit organization based in Buffalo that provides comprehensive reentry services and transitional housing for individuals impacted by incarceration. Their work includes case management, mentoring, job readiness training, and educational support. They also run youth-centered initiatives such as Empower Youth and Project Blue, along with a community food pantry and public advocacy campaigns.

The mission of PUSH Buffalo is to mobilize residents to create strong neighborhoods with quality, affordable housing; to expand local hiring opportunities; and to advance racial, economic, and environmental justice in Buffalo.

Power to the People NY (PTTP NY) is a New York State-based grassroots organization dedicated to uniting individuals to advocate for values that foster a truly inclusive and equitable America. They emphasize peaceful protest and active civic engagement to drive positive change. PTTP NY stands for principles such as fair representation of all citizens, inclusivity across races, religions, genders, and sexual orientations, and adherence to the U.S. Constitution and the rule of law. The organization hosts events, encourages volunteerism, and seeks to collaborate with those passionate about creating a better future.

Pride Center of Western New York is a community-based organization that supports the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals across Western New York. Through advocacy, education, direct services, and community programming, the Pride Center works to create a more inclusive, affirming, and equitable region for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. They offer resources such as support groups, health services, youth programs, and cultural competency trainings.

Progressive Book Club 716 is a Buffalo-based collective that brings people together through political education and community discussion. Centering leftist and justice-oriented texts, the club provides a welcoming space for both new and seasoned readers to explore radical ideas, current events, and the intersections of literature and liberation. Meetings are typically informal, discussion-based, and open to all who are interested in learning, unlearning, and connecting with others through reading.

Project Mona’s House is a Buffalo-based nonprofit dedicated to restoring freedom, dignity, and hope to women who have experienced human trafficking. The organization provides shelter, trauma-informed care, education, and life skills training through its holistic residential program. Project Mona’s House also raises awareness, engages in prevention efforts, and advocates for systemic change to end modern-day slavery and exploitation.

QHQ Buffalo is a volunteer-run mutual aid collective focused on uplifting the local queer community through resource sharing and peer support. They publish a bi‑weekly newsletter where members can offer and request help - everything from emotional support to practical assistance. Their work fosters direct, community-driven care and connection across Buffalo.

Rainbow Collective of Western New York is a grassroots nonprofit based in Hamburg and Buffalo that creates vibrant, inclusive spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals, families, and allies. They host peer-led support groups (including trans youth, young adult, adult, and parent/caregiver circles), social events like game nights, senior coffee hours, and produce a Pride in the Park festival. Their volunteer and community events aim to foster connection, resilience, and cultural celebration throughout WNY.

Refugee Alliance International is a WNY-based, Palestinian-led humanitarian organization providing critical support to communities impacted by conflict, displacement, and occupation. Their work focuses on delivering emergency medical relief, food assistance, and social services - particularly in Gaza and the West Bank. In the wake of ongoing violence, RAI supports evacuees in need of surgical care and prosthetics, while continuing long-term efforts to uplift Palestinian communities and advocate for justice.

Students for Justice in Palestine – University at Buffalo (SJP UB) is a student-led organization committed to raising awareness about the Palestinian struggle and advocating for justice, human rights, and liberation. Through campus events, educational campaigns, and coalition-building, SJP UB works in solidarity with global movements against colonialism, apartheid, and oppression.

University at Buffalo Young Democratic Socialists of America (UB YDSA) is a student-led chapter of YDSA, organizing on campus for socialism, labor rights, racial justice, climate action, and accessible education. Through political education, direct action, and coalition work, UB YDSA empowers students to challenge systems of oppression and build a more just and democratic future.

A regional branch of SANYS founded and led by people with developmental disabilities, serving Erie, Niagara, and surrounding WNY counties. The Buffalo office offers leadership and peer support via regional self-advocacy groups, resource coordination, and public events. They also run the Right 2 Ride monthly Zoom group advocating for accessible transit.

SURJ Buffalo is a chapter of Showing Up for Racial Justice, a national network organizing white people against white supremacy. This chapter is a coalition of folks organizing across class lines in Buffalo, Erie County, and Western New York to undermine racist institutions through collective action. The SURJ Buffalo chapter is one of over 200 SURJ chapters and affiliates nationwide and beyond. Through community organizing, mobilizing, and education, SURJ moves white people to act as part of a multiracial majority for justice with passion and accountability.  SURJ Buffalo members participate in opportunities like chapter meetings, political education, skill development workshops, neighborhood canvases, social events, and community actions.

SNUG Buffalo is a community-driven violence intervention initiative that employs a public-health framework to reduce gun-related conflicts in high-risk neighborhoods. Led by outreach workers with lived experience, they mediate disputes, mentor youth, connect individuals to job training and trauma counseling, and engage partners like law enforcement, churches, and local organizations. Programs include violence debriefings, community events like SNUG Day, and assistance accessing victim resources.

SUNY Buffalo BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) is a student-led campaign at the University at Buffalo supporting the global movement to end Israeli apartheid and uphold Palestinian rights. Rooted in principles of international law and human rights, the group organizes around economic pressure, campus advocacy, and education to push for the university’s divestment from companies complicit in occupation and oppression.

Formerly COVID Conscious Buffalo

The People’s Public Health – Buffalo provides regular COVID and air quality updates for the Greater Buffalo region, promotes pandemic realism, and shares mitigation strategies rooted in community care. They focus on public health education, free mask distribution (especially in the Southtowns), and accessible resources to help keep communities safe and informed. Their work is grounded in a people-first approach to health and mutual aid.

Veterans For Peace is a national organization made up of military veterans, family members, and allies working to build a culture of peace, expose the true costs of war, and advocate for alternatives to violence. Through education, direct action, and solidarity, they push for an end to U.S. militarism at home and abroad - guided by the belief that peace is patriotic. Chapters across the country, including in Buffalo NY, work on issues from anti-war activism to supporting veterans impacted by conflict.

Voice Buffalo is a multiracial, interfaith coalition that empowers communities through grassroots organizing to advance racial and social justice in Buffalo. By building leadership, amplifying marginalized voices, and advocating for systemic change, Voice Buffalo works to dismantle oppression and transform public policies in areas like criminal justice, transportation, housing, and mental health.

WNYCOSH is a coalition of workers, unions, advocates, and health and safety professionals organizing for safer and healthier working conditions across Western New York. Their work includes worker trainings, immigrant worker support, youth programs, and campaigns for stronger labor protections.

WNY Man-Made Men is a grassroots, volunteer-run transmasculine organization formed in 2023. We provide mutual aid, gender-affirming healthcare information, and a safe space to forge trans community bonds. As well as helping allies break down stigmas and learn about how to best support transmasculine people. We host events, panels, workshops, and monthly meetings.

Western New York Peace Center is one of the oldest grassroots peace and justice organizations in the country, working locally and globally to promote nonviolence, social justice, and human rights. Through education, direct action, and coalition-building, the WNY Peace Center addresses issues like anti-racism, economic justice, militarism, climate justice, and immigrant rights—always grounded in a commitment to peace and equity for all.

Western New York Working Families Party (WNY WFP) is the regional chapter of the national progressive political party that fights for economic, racial, and social justice through grassroots organizing, issue-based campaigns, and electoral power. WNY WFP supports candidates who align with labor rights, climate justice, housing access, and equity-driven policies, aiming to build a political system that truly serves working people.

An international network of women advocating for peace and justice through nonviolent action. Women in Black holds public silent vigils to mourn victims of war and violence, challenge militarism, and call attention to human rights abuses - often in black clothing as a symbol of mourning. Their decentralized structure empowers local groups, including those in Buffalo, to take action in solidarity with global struggles for justice.