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Unlocking the Power of Unrestricted Endowments

Sometimes our donors have a vision: supporting education, historical preservation, or community beautification. We call that a “field of interest.” If you know what is important to you and what work you’d like to see carried on in perpetuity, donating to a fund that supports a specific field of interest is a great solution. However, we often find the needs of the community shift and things we never saw coming have a profound impact on Fayette County. As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of community development, I am compelled to shed light on a crucial aspect of our work that holds immense potential for positive change – unrestricted endowments.

At the heart of our Foundation lies a commitment to connecting donors and nonprofit agencies to collectively improve the quality of life in our community. Our efforts are driven by the belief that a thriving community is one where nonprofits are empowered to respond effectively to evolving needs. Central to this empowerment is the utilization of unrestricted endowments and discretionary funds, along with the invaluable support from donor-advised funds.

Our unrestricted endowments–appropriately called Community Impact funds– play a pivotal role in our ability to make a meaningful impact. When donors graciously allow the Foundation, and consequently the community’s nonprofits, to use the investment income in any way the community needs it, a world of possibilities opens up. This flexibility enables us to address emerging challenges, seize new opportunities, and provide timely support where it is most needed. Essentially, you’re adding your generous gift to a larger pool of funds that grow and provide income that supports needs as they arise.

The unrestricted nature of these endowments allows us to act swiftly in response to dynamic community needs. Whether it’s supporting innovative projects, addressing urgent issues, or providing a lifeline to nonprofits facing unforeseen challenges, the power of unrestricted endowments lies in their adaptability. This flexibility ensures that the funds entrusted to us can be strategically deployed to create lasting and positive change.

One of the distinctive qualities of the Fayette Community Foundation is our role as stewards of the hopes and dreams of those who care deeply about specific organizations or causes. We understand that philanthropy is a deeply personal journey, and our commitment extends beyond the immediate impact. By carrying out our donors’ philanthropic visions now and into the future, we become custodians of legacies that transcend generations – and you can be part of this by donating to our unrestricted endowment.

Endowments offer a unique avenue for individuals to leave a lasting mark on the community they cherish. Whether created in the present or through careful estate planning, endowments ensure that future generations will continue to benefit from the generosity and foresight of those who came before them. It is an enduring commitment to building a legacy that goes beyond our lifetimes, creating a ripple effect of positive change for years to come. By embracing this approach, we unlock the full potential of philanthropy, allowing us to respond to evolving needs, support nonprofits effectively, and build a legacy of enduring positive change.

We can start the conversation about the incredible things our unrestricted endowment has done for Fayette County as soon as you are ready. Please give us a call at (765) 827-9966 or email info@givetofcf.com. 

• Abigail Roszell, Executive Director, Fayette Community Foundation