What is a community foundation?

A community foundation is a simple and ingenious nonprofit organization designed to make it possible for anyone to support their community now and in the future.

A community foundation attracts charitable dollars, manages and invests that money, and gives money through grants to support nonprofits.

Community foundations are defined by the geography they serve, with a broad mission to encourage philanthropy as a tool for building better communities, and an ability to manage many charitable funds under one roof.

Community foundations have a long-term view and a broad perspective. They have deep roots in community, experience working with nonprofits, and are a knowledge bank for local philanthropy.

The impact of a community foundation is evident in its permanence on the one hand, and its flexibility on the other.