What is a Community Foundation?
Rooted in Community
A community foundation is a public charity created by and for the people of a particular region or group. Its purpose is to strengthen the community by connecting local generosity with local needs. As public charities, community foundations bring together gifts from many donors to benefit a whole community, while allowing each donor to establish a fund with customized charitable goals and grantmaking preferences. These funds support a broad range of causes, such as education, arts and culture, health, the environment, social services, and more. Because they are built to last, community foundations can respond to needs, both today and in the future, while maintaining a long-term commitment to the communities they serve.
Public, Permanent, and Accountable
In the United States, the term “community foundation” is a recognized term of art, not simply a label any nonprofit can use. Community foundations are governed by local boards of community leaders and operate with a strong commitment to transparency and accountability. Some community foundations go a step further by becoming accredited and maintaining accreditation through the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations, a nationally recognized benchmark for governance, stewardship, and responsible management.
A Lasting Resource for Generosity
By combining local resources and knowledge, community foundations make philanthropy accessible to everyone, from those opening a donor advised fund to those creating a lasting legacy through planned giving. The result is a permanent source of community strength that grows with and for the people it serves.
A SIMPLE WAY TO MAKE A LASTING DIFFERENCE
When donors create a fund with Coastal Bend Community Foundation, we make it easy to give back in a way that fits donors’ goals, without the cost or complexity of starting and maintaining a private foundation. Because the Foundation is a public charity, donations are tax-deductible within IRS limits and often offer greater tax advantages than giving through a private foundation.
We offer a variety of fund types, including donor advised funds, field of interest funds, scholarship funds, designated funds, and endowments. Each is designed to help you support the causes, organizations, or students you care about most. Starting a fund can also be a meaningful way to honor someone who has shaped your life or celebrate the memory of a loved one.
Our fees are low so more of your gift goes directly to the causes you care about. We handle all administration, investments, and reporting and provide trusted local knowledge so you can focus on making a difference. If you are not sure where to start, call us at (361) 882-9745 and we will help you create a lasting impact.