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Community foundations are independent philanthropic organizations working in specific geographic areas which, over time, build permanent collections of endowed funds contributed from many donors. With nearly 700 community foundations nationwide holding roughly $35 billion in assets, they make up one of the fastest growing sectors of philanthropy in the U.S. today.
Community foundations offer donors many services and benefits. They routinely work with families, individuals, attorneys and estate and financial planners to design gift plans that fit every economic situation, ensuring that donors receive the most benefit from their charitable contributions and that their philanthropic dollars are used to the fullest extent.
In addition to making grants that benefit our area, the Community Foundation gives donors the power to make a difference in their community. When a donor creates a fund at the Community Foundation, they get the resources and expertise of our staff...and the service that could only come from a community foundation. We work with our donors to make sure their funds meet their needs and allow them to have an impact on the community and issues they care about.
Community foundations accept gifts of various sizes and types from private citizens, corporations, government agencies and other foundations. Nearly every type of gift—including real estate, closely held stock and artwork—can be contributed to a community foundation. Gifts are made from bequests and by living donors through various types of funds and deferred giving vehicles.
Any individual can contribute any amount of money to the Community Foundation. The Foundation invests the gifts for growth and income and uses a payout amount to make grants that will strengthen the community. The donor may choose to stay actively involved with grantmaking or leave that function to the Foundation.
All community foundations share the common goal of serving donors, nonprofit organizations and the community as a whole. In addition, one of a community foundation’s special functions is to evaluate and help coordinate the needs and services in its communities, so that charitable gifts are used effectively to fulfill a community’s most critical needs.
Your Community Foundation is governed by a local Board of Trustees and an Advisory Board comprised of community leaders. We are administered by a full-time professional staff. Operating expenses are paid from management fees, through grants and partnerships with local and national foundations and organizations, and from gifts designated by donors to cover foundation operating costs. | 
