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What Does a Community Foundation Do?

If you’ve ever wondered what a community foundation does, let me take a moment to share how the Fayette Community Foundation works to make a difference right here in our community. At its heart, a community foundation connects the generosity of donors with the needs and opportunities of the community.

Think of the Foundation as a bridge. On one side, we have people who want to make a difference—whether through a donation today, a scholarship fund, or a gift left in their will. On the other side, we have organizations, projects, and causes that are working to improve life in Fayette County. The Foundation brings these two sides together, ensuring that every gift, big or small, has a meaningful and lasting impact.

Our mission is to inspire philanthropy and leadership in Fayette County. That means we don’t just hand out grants or scholarships; we help people think strategically about how they want to shape the future of this community. A donor might be passionate about education, parks and recreation, or health care. Whatever their passion, we help turn their generosity into a legacy that benefits generations to come.

One of the most unique aspects of a community foundation is the endowment funds we manage. An endowment works like a savings account that never gets spent down. Instead, it’s invested, and the earnings are used to support causes the donor cares about. This creates a steady, reliable source of funding that keeps giving back year after year.

The Fayette County Foundation oversees dozens of these funds, each designed to meet specific needs in our community. Some provide scholarships for local students. Others fund community improvement projects or strengthen the work of nonprofit organizations. One of our key responsibilities is to ensure that these funds are managed responsibly so they can continue to make a difference far into the future.

But our role doesn’t stop at managing funds. We also work closely with local nonprofits, schools, and civic groups to identify the most pressing needs in Fayette County. Whether it’s supporting child care programs, helping a food pantry expand, or contributing to a new park, the Foundation helps turn ideas into reality.

Collaboration is a big part of what makes this possible. We bring people together—donors, nonprofits, community leaders, and residents—to discuss challenges and brainstorm solutions. When you walk into our office, you’ll often find us meeting with partners, talking through grant applications, or planning events that bring people together to celebrate the power of community.

We also provide a guiding hand for individuals who want to make a difference but aren’t sure where to start. Some donors choose to support one of our existing funds, while others create a new one that aligns with their personal goals. We work with them every step of the way to ensure their gift creates the legacy they envision.

And let’s not forget the power of education. From hosting workshops for local nonprofits to helping students understand how scholarships can open doors to their futures, we are constantly looking for ways to empower others with knowledge.

In rural communities like Fayette County, a community foundation is a vital resource. We’re here to build connections, amplify generosity, and steward resources that will keep making a difference long after any one of us is gone. Whether it’s helping a young person pursue their dream of college, supporting a family through tough times, or funding a project that makes our town more vibrant, the work we do is all about making Fayette County the best it can be.

Next time you hear the words “community foundation,” I hope you’ll think about more than just grants or scholarships. Think about the lives changed, the opportunities created, and the future built on the generosity of today. That’s what a community foundation does, and it’s what the Fayette Community Foundation is proud to do for this incredible community. We’re here for Fayette County – and we’re here for you, too. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

-Abigail Roszell, Executive Director, Fayette Community Foundation