We serve 13 counties in West Central Illinois, Northeast Missouri, and Southeast Iowa. (Our Service Area)

A vibrant philanthropic heritage has existed in the tri-state area for many years. However, until 1997, someone who wanted to make a permanent gift that would serve an entire community or region had limited options for fulfilling that charitable desire. Thus, the Community Foundation was founded with a mandate to receive, create, and build permanent funds designed to strengthen our community.

We work with donors to meet their charitable desires by connecting people who care with causes that matter. We help donors establish and build funds to serve the agencies and causes that they hold dear. Ours is truly a unique identity and role.

The Community Foundation began with enthusiasm and just $1,050 based upon the belief that anyone, regardless of means, can be a philanthropist. Since then assets have grown to several million dollars and include more than 60 funds invested in diverse portfolios. (Current Funds) 

Another of our special functions is to evaluate needs, services, and opportunities in our communities so that grants from those charitable gifts are effectively used. Since 1999, we have provided more than 450 grants totaling more than $770,000 to area nonprofit organizations. Thousands have been affected by these funds that enable the nonprofit organizations to focus on delivering programs and services throughout the tri-states.

That has included helping support the cost of admission, lessons, or workshops for underserved children to participate in swimming classes, visual arts programs, theatre arts workshops, camping experiences, and various educational programs. Grant money has been used to purchase medical supplies and equipment for the elderly or to offer workshops for caregivers. Grants have also meant seed or completion money for programs and projects in various towns throughout the region.

As additional endowed funds are established, donors will be able to fulfill their charitable desires thus strengthening the communities and lives of those who live in the tri-states.

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