Since we've been posting our Community Cares blog, we've received questions from readers asking for more information about who the Rockland Community Foundation is and why we are here.
Quite simply, we're here for Rockland! We exist to connect donors in our county with locally based causes that they care about. We're about neighbors helping neighbors, and building a better Rockland.
In this week's post, we're going to look at community foundations in general - what they are and the important function they provide for donors, non-profits, and grant recipients. Next week, we'll take a closer look at how the Rockland Community Foundation is bringing the community foundation mission to our county -- and how individuals and other non-profits are benefitting.
Part I - Community Foundations.
Community Foundations serve a very important function in the locations they serve. Here's how:
What is a Community Foundation?
A community foundation a 501 c 3 instrument for giving that keeps donations in the geographic area it serves. Donors, who can be individuals, groups or businesses, establish tax-exempt funds with a community foundation to support causes they care about.
Causes can include scholarships, teaching grants, food pantries, families in need, the arts, parks, historic preservation, animal protection, veterans issues, and more. In addition, non-profits often establish funds with community foundations to support specific projects or needs.
Community foundations are also often used to establish memorial funds, to honor loved ones by supporting causes they cared about.
The foundation is responsible for overseeing and growing these funds through investment, as well as through additional donations. Monies in these funds are awarded via a grant application process.
Why Contribute to a Community Foundation?
First and most important, monies donated to a community foundation stay in the community it serves. As a donator to a community foundation, you see the direct result of your gift in the neighborhood where you live, work, and raise your family.
Community foundations put philanthropy within reach! Funds can be established with as little as $1,000, and some types can be funded over a period of years.
Certain types of funds can be created to last 'in perpetuity,' which means that your gift can continue to do good work for many lifetimes.
You know where your money is being spent. Community foundations do not draw their general operating expenses from donor funds. This means your donation is going for the cause you intended, and not to pay for phone lines or offices.
In times of crisis, community foundations are a beacon of support, providing a way to respond to emergencies by channeling donations where they are needed most.
For Now. For Ever. For Rockland.
Looking to make a difference in Rockland? Consider opening a fund with the Rockland Community Foundation, or make a donation to one of our 22 existing funds. Either way, you'll have the confidence of knowing your donation will have an impact right here at home.
So think about where your passion lies -- then give us a call!
About the Community Cares Blog and the Rockland Community Foundation
The Community Cares Blog, hosted by the Rockland Community Foundation, celebrates the spirit of giving in our community. Each week, we will post a story of philanthropy or shine a spotlight on an activity that is making a difference in the lives of our neighbors. We invite Rockland non-profits, individuals and businesses to contribute to the Community Cares blog by sending an email to info@rocklandgives.org.
As the umbrella charitable organization for the county, the Rockland Community Foundation is working to connect donors with the causes they care about most. Our grants support a wide range of interests and, with the support of Rockland residents and businesses, we are committed a path of growth that will enable us to help the non-profit community continue their vital work. You can learn more by visiting us at www.rocklandgives.org.
