A permanent investment in Knox County's future is now underway with the establishment of the Knox County Endowment Fund, a new charitable endowment created through the Community Foundation Serving West Central Illinois & Northeast Missouri.

Built to grow alongside the communities it serves, the Knox County Endowment Fund will provide a sustained source of support for local nonprofits, community projects, and charitable initiatives in Knox County — now and for generations ahead. Contributions to the fund are invested, with earnings distributed annually to address local needs as they evolve over time.

Thanks to a generous $5,000 contribution from Northeast Missouri Electric Power Cooperative (Northeast Power), the Fund is already one-third of the way toward its initial $15,000 goal. Once the first goal is met, the Community Foundation will match another $15,000 to support the investment and future grantmaking to Knox County initiatives.

"Knox County has so much going for it — dedicated organizations, engaged residents, and a real sense of pride in this community," said Emily Moore, Development Officer with the Community Foundation. "The Knox County Endowment Fund gives people a way to put that pride into permanent action. Every gift, at any level, helps build something that will keep giving back long after we're gone."

Once the fundraising goal is met, the Knox County Endowment Fund will benefit local charitable and public projects, programs, and organizations. As an endowment, it will continue to grow and generate new funds in perpetuity. Each year, the fund council will make recommendations for grants from the fund to strengthen communities in Knox County.

A local advisory council made up of Knox County residents who are passionate about making a difference will guide the fund's grantmaking priorities. The group is currently seeking additional council members who are interested in playing an active role in shaping the future of their community.

Gifts to the Community Foundation for the Knox County Endowment Fund are tax-deductible as allowed by law. The Community Foundation Serving West Central Illinois & Northeast Missouri is a not-for-profit organization with 501(c)(3) status.

To learn more about the Knox County Endowment Fund, become a council member, or make a gift, visit https://mycommunityfoundation.org/funds#KnoxCountyEndowmentFund