The Community Foundation has evolved from an initial focus on working with donors to receive gifts, make grants and award scholarships, to work on community strengthening in our region. A few examples include:
- Underwrite free estate planning classes that have been attended by more than a thousand residents
- Host an initiative to help hundreds of homeless and struggling youth find their way to safety and security and a path to independence
- Establish a program to recognize charitable boards with 100% of their members making a personal financial contribution to that charity each year. The Community Foundation began this award eight years ago with just 13 charities meeting this standard. More than 100 organizations received the award in 2015.
- Work with Washoe County School District on reducing bullying that resulted in the first District-wide curriculum, first convening with district administrators and local organizations, and winning a $50 million federal grant for help in the schools.
Essential leadership action is supported by generous people who share our vision. 100% of our Trustees contribute to support community leadership as well as 90% of our advisory board members. They are joined by others, including individuals who have funds at the Community Foundation and donors within the community.
The Community Foundation’s unique approach to leadership is to step up as a convener and an educator. The Foundation is proud to serve as a “neutral convener” in the community. We bring together diverse people to explore, discuss, and identify specific issues. The process is complex, but the results are evident. Community foundations around the nation are using convening to bring about sustainable solutions to persistent community issues, and we are proud to be on the move in that direction.
As an educator, the Community Foundation educates both the public and professional advisors about incorporating charitable giving into estate and financial planning. We also host seminars for local charities about everything from development to compliance and efficient and effective operation of nonprofit businesses.
Community Foundation leadership work would not be possible without the generous support of forward- thinking individuals. I am grateful for their vision and their support. If you would like to learn more about our community leadership activities, or if you would like to join the Community Foundation in our work, please give me a call.
Chris Askin, President & CEO.
775-762-1932.
P.S. Please pass this information to your favorite student. It is time to apply for college scholarships. Applications from Community Foundation scholarship funds are available on nevadafund.org./receive. Most applications are due by March 1st. 