What is a Community Foundation?

From a historical perspective, community foundations are a purely American invention that began in 1914, a mere 40 miles to our north in Cleveland, Ohio. Local banker Frederick Goff pooled the charitable resources of his community's philanthropists to create a permanent endowment for the betterment of the city. Thus, the first community foundation was born. Over a century later, this movement has transformed the face of philanthropy with over 800 community foundations across the country.

Today, community foundations have evolved so uniquely that they are often difficult to describe!

To our fund holders and their legal, tax, and financial advisors, the Community Foundation is a place where individuals and families can organize their charitable giving, maximize tax benefits, and work with a team of professionals to support their favorite causes.

To the charities in our region, the Community Foundation is a valuable connecting point to align with philanthropists, grow an endowment, and work together to ensure that quality of life improves for everyone who lives here.

To civic leaders and everyone who wants to see our community thrive, the Community Foundation is a knowledgeable and helpful convener, often taking a behind-the-scenes lead in regional initiatives toward positive change in the place we all call home.

To everyone in our community, we are your Community Foundation.