In their basic sense, community foundations are public charities that facilitate donations from individuals, families and businesses to award grants that support nonprofits and address community needs in a specific geographical area. However, they are so much more.

Community foundations, like CFAAC, keep a finger on the pulse of the community and its nonprofits. Additionally, they are available in emergencies on the local level, can discover pockets of need within a community that national organizations might overlook, provide high-quality philanthropic services to donors, offer expertise based on their deep understanding of local needs and organize informative programs to strengthen nonprofits and educate the community. In other words, community foundations benefit everyone.

The first community foundation in the U.S., the Cleveland Foundation, was founded in 1914 by a Cleveland banker and lawyer Frederick Goff who had a vision to improve his community by partnering with local philanthropists to pool together their resources. Today, there are more than 750 community foundations in the U.S. Maryland, alone, is home to 14 community foundations.

How long has CFAAC been around and what is its mission?

As the largest institutional funder of nonprofit organizations in Anne Arundel County, CFAAC serves as a resource for local philanthropists, business leaders, nonprofits, professional advisors, community advocates, government agencies and policymakers. Our mission is to inspire and promote giving in Anne Arundel County by connecting people who care with causes that matter.

So, what does that mean for Anne Arundel County residents?

First and foremost, we believe we share a common goal – to improve the quality of life in the county. CFAAC manages several grant programs, scholarships and a giving circle in order to focus on the variety of critical needs in our community. Our purpose is two-fold – 1) to grow an endowment so we can continually serve our community through grant-making and other activities, and 2) to partner with donors so they can accomplish their charitable goals.

In addition to grant-making and philanthropic services, what else do you offer?

Every three years, CFAAC publishes a Community Needs Assessment titled Poverty Amidst Plenty. The publication is a detailed and comprehensive report to determine the greatest areas of need so we can achieve a healthy and strong community for all county residents.

CFAAC also offers programs – in-person and online webinars – that community members can access. These programs often tackle important topics such as Becoming a Trauma Informed County. Check for pre-recorded and upcoming webinars/events on our website CFAAC.org and Facebook page.

How can community members get involved?

Through CFAAC, donors can establish and name component funds designated for a specific nonprofit or to address a broad need such as the arts or environment. Donors can even create a legacy by supporting causes for generations to come. Find out more at CFAAC.org.

CFAAC is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3), publicly supported philanthropic organization with the long-term goal of building permanent funds that provide support to local nonprofit organizations through grants and special projects.

Mary Spencer is president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Anne Arundel County.

This story was originally printed in the September 10, 2021 edition of the CAPITAL GAZETTE.