What is a Community Foundation?

Endowment Builder, Community Connector, Grantmaker

Community foundations are grant-making public charities dedicated to improving the lives of people in a defined local geographic area. They bring together the financial resources of individuals, families, and businesses to support effective nonprofits in their communities.

Community foundations play a key role in identifying and solving community problems. More than 750 community foundations operate in urban and rural areas in every state in the United States. Illinois Prairie Community Foundation is a member of the Alliance of Illinois Community Foundations, comprised of more than 30 community foundations within the state of Illinois, each representing a distinct geographical area.

The Community Foundations National Standards Board confirms operational excellence in six key areas - mission, structure and governance, resource development, stewardship and accountability, grantmaking and community leadership, donor relations, and communications. Foundations that comply with these standards can display the official National Standards Seal. Illinois Prairie Community Foundation is proud to display this seal.