FAQs

What is a community foundation?

A community is a gathering of people connected to one another. A foundation is a platform for growth. A community foundation is a platform for building community.

The first community foundation was established in 1914 by Cleveland banker Frederick Goff in an effort to protect charitable trusts in banks. He proposed an organization, governed by civic leaders, that would manage endowed funds for charitably-minded citizens and distribute grants to local causes in their names.

Such a community foundation would enjoy economies of scale, offering the affluent and modest donor alike the professional administration of a major institution, without depleting charitable capital that had been donated for the public good. Financial experts would continue to manage the investments, and civic leaders would ensure that every donor's charitable wishes were carried out.

Since 1914, more than 650 community foundations have been established nationwide, representing one of the fastest growing types of organized philanthropy.

What is the Nevada Community Foundation?

The Nevada Community Foundation was established as a nonprofit corporation in 1988 by a group of prominent, local citizens who wanted to ensure a permanent source of funds for local charitable organizations. We serve as a vehicle for local philanthropy by connecting our donors' philanthropic interests with community needs.

From a tax and legal perspective, the Community Foundation is a simpler, less expensive, and more tax-efficient alternative to creating a private foundation. From a programmatic viewpoint, however, we do so much more. The Nevada Community Foundation convenes meetings of charities to address critical issues. We connect generous donors to worthy charitable projects. We encourage collaboration among non-profits to avoid duplication and to fill gaps in services. We serve as philanthropic advisors to generous individuals, families, and organizations who are trying to use their charitable dollars more wisely by engaging us as their personal foundation staff. Fundamentally, we exist to build and strengthen our community in all of its wonderful diversity – from arts and culture to children's issues, from social service concerns to environmental activities.