Woodbury Community Foundation

FAQs

What is a “Community Foundation?”

A community foundation is a nonprofit charitable organization that has been created by and for the people of a community to help donors do good work. Since the first community foundation began in 1914, they have helped strengthen numerous communities. Community foundations manage donors' financial gifts according to their wishes and distribute investment proceeds through grants to support local communities and regional issues. The real power of a community foundation is its capacity to help foster community and to bring people together around a common mission.

How do community foundations operate?

Established as public charities, community foundations operate as 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and are publicly accountable. Gifts made to community foundations are tax-deductible. The Woodbury Community Foundation is one of more than 600 community foundations nationwide that receives contributions from individuals and organizations and makes grants to meet current and emerging community needs. Grants from the Foundation's endowment (permanent funds) are made through a formal grant application process and are approved by the Foundation's Board of Directors once a year.

What is the Woodbury Community Foundation’s mission and vision?

Our mission is to ensure that our community is a premier and caring place to live, work, and play. Our vision is to connect people and organizations with causes that matter in order to strengthen our community for the benefit of all.

How does the Woodbury Community Foundation work in the community?

The WCF’s Board is made up of active, involved leaders in the community and Foundation staff has a solid understanding of Woodbury’s nonprofit resources and needs. We have the unique role of convening community discussion around areas of need, providing funding, and encouraging and participating in community initiatives and partnerships to address these needs.

How is the Foundation’s endowment invested?

Endowment funds are carefully invested to protect the principle and ensure a safe and reasonable rate of return.

How can I invest in/contribute to the Woodbury Community Foundation?

• Cash or Check (3-5 years pledges welcomed)

• Publicly-traded Stocks, Bonds, or Securities

• Real Estate or interest in residences or farms

• Life Insurance beneficiary

• Charitable bequests through a will

• Charitable Remainder Trusts

• Matching Gifts

What types of funds are available?

• Unrestricted – The donor allows the WCF Board of Directors to determine the best use of the funds based on the need at the time of the gift.

• Operations – Donations that support the annual administration of the WCF.

• Unrestricted Endowment Fund – A fund directed to the endowment in which the donor allows the WCF Board of Directors to determine the best use of the proceeds of the funds based on the interest areas specified in the grant guidelines.

• Field of Interest Fund – An endowed fund whose proceeds the donor directs to one of the interest funds specified in the grant guidelines.

• Agency Endowment Fund – An endowed fund established by a designated non-profit organization.

• Administrative Endowment Fund – An endowed fund where donations support the perpetual operations of the WCF.