A Case for the Community Foundation
Community philanthropy
Community foundations make up one of the fastest growing sectors of philanthropy in the United States today. Community Foundations build and strengthen communities by making it possible for a wide range of donors to participate in creating permanent endowment funds to meet present and future needs. Community foundations have become catalysts for improvement by promoting philanthropy that is visionary, diverse and inclusive.
Community foundations are a sustainable aspect of philanthropy – providing leadership and problem solving in the present and preparing for the future with a permanent endowment.
The Oshkosh Area Community Foundation is one of 22 Wisconsin community foundations and nearly 700 national community foundations.
Growing endowments
- An endowment is a philanthropic tool that is forward-looking and sustainable. It is sustainable because it renews itself through smart investing and preservation of the principal.
- Endowment allows for immediate gifts because people have given to it in the past. There are funds available at any time to help with a variety of causes.
- An endowment speaks to the future of a community and the desire of people in the present to make sure that generations are ensured the same or better quality of life.
An endowment can be compared to a savings account or a retirement savings plan. People make donations to an endowment and the funds are invested with growth as a goal. From the income, grants are made and the principle of the gift always remains intact.
Focus on service
At the Oshkosh Area Community Foundation we’re committed to personalized, attentive service.
Our development staff routinely works with individuals, families and professional advisors to design gift plans that fit every situation and donor preference, ensuring that you receive the most benefit from your charitable contributions. Our program staff conducts regular research, analyses and site visits to ensure that philanthropic dollars are maximized and well-used. View our staff page here.
Certified for excellence
The Oshkosh Area Community Foundation operates in compliance with the National Standards for Community Foundations as set forth by the Council on Foundations.
