Community foundations are grantmaking public charities that are dedicated to improving the lives of people in a defined local geographic area. They bring together the financial resources of individuals, families, and businesses to support their communities. 

Community foundations play a key role in identifying and solving community problems.   

Thanks to Rural America’s aging population and the exodus of young people, millions of dollars leave your community as your seniors literally die. Foundations are a way to keep your community’s wealth at home for local growth and long-term vision.  

The role of your community foundation must be more than just a piggybank. Their historic role as only a funder must be allowed to transition to being a leader with a voice at the community table to address systemic issues that have been “swept under the rug” for years that inhibit community health and growth. 

Foundations should help identify and co-fund long-term, sustainable processes to benefit the future of your community. Your local lawyers and tax preparers need to make sure their clients are considering this option.   

Don’t have a local foundation? Look into starting one.