The Fedcap Group is deeply saddened by the passing of our dear colleague and friend Bill Grinker. Bill was an icon in the field of human services in New York City. He is one of those rare individuals who really did make the world a better place.

A graduate of the University of Wisconsin, Madison and of Harvard Law School, Bill used his education to advance equity and diversity and create positive change in communities. In 1973, Bill founded MDRC, a non-profit dedicated to reducing poverty and bolstering economic self-sufficiency. In 1986, Bill was appointed Commissioner of the Human Resources Administration of New York City under Mayor Ed Koch—advancing policies that made it easier for people in need to change the course of their lives.

In 1998, Bill Founded Seedco and Seedco Financial Services, and served as its President & CEO for a decade. After the events of September 11, 2001, Seedco was an essential force in revitalizing New York City’s decimated downtown. Bill also served on the New York City Planning Commission, helping to shape urban development and ensure that the city’s growth was inclusive and sustainable.

Bill possessed a fierce intelligence and a quick wit as well as a sensitive heart filled with love and humor.

“Bill was a tremendous asset to The Fedcap Group.  He helped us with various combinations, provided guidance as we worked to establish a community development financial institution, assisted us in designing our interventions at Rikers and our efforts to help youth in foster care enter college and graduate. Bill was also our brain trust as we strategized around international growth and program expansion,” said Christine McMahon, President and CEO of The Fedcap Group. “He was my dear friend and confidant, and I will miss him a great deal.”

In 2017 Wildcat, a company of The Fedcap Group, honored Bill with the Amalia Betanzos Award for Distinguished Service.  View the video below.

Bill will be deeply missed.