There is a basic list of items that you need to be aware of before you can truly understand the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation. The following are 10 informational factoids designed to help you become better acquainted with CRCF:
1. CRCF is local and here for you.
As a public foundation, CRCF was created by community members for the entire community. If you have charitable needs or philanthropic interests, CRCF can help service these needs and interests.
2. CRCF has its own legacy.
Established in 1978, the Foundation has operated for 28 years. Over a quarter-century CRCF has proven a reputation as a careful investor of your gifts and knowledgeable source of information on community needs and solutions.
3. CRCF is based on forever.
CRCF is built on a foundation of permanence. Endowment funds start small but grow in time, just as the Foundation. When community needs change over time, the Foundation will still be around servicing those new needs.
4. CRCF makes the community better.
Last year, CRCF awarded approximately $2,000,000 in grants in the areas of arts, civic enrichment, education, and social and human services.
5. CRCF truly gives back.
In its 28-year history, CRCF has received nearly $37,000,000 in contributions. Of that, over $25,000,000 has been awarded back to the community in grants, with the remainder being invested for fund growth over time.
6. CRCF makes giving simple.
You can make a simple outright gift, establish a fund, or name CRCF as a beneficiary, knowing every dollar goes toward a charitable purpose.
7. CRCF knows the community.
With hundreds of area non-profits, it can be difficult to figure out where to give. CRCF gets to know local non-profit organizations and can assist you in giving to those organizations, whether directly or through a fund.
8. CRCF is designed to benefit the entire community.
Individual non-profits focus on specific issues, but CRCF’s role is to assist the community as a whole. With community input, CRCF develops grantmaking that addresses a broad range of issues that are most relevant to the community’s needs today.
9. CRCF is comprised of people of the community.
11 volunteer Board members comprised of individuals from all sectors of business and non-profit work, volunteer their time and talents as CRCF ambassadors and governors. Including the staff and an all-volunteer membership, the Foundation represents a broad cross-section of the entire community looking out for your needs.
10. CRCF succeeds on reputation.
Over 400 individuals have created funds with the CRCF, entrusting the Foundation to carry out their charitable wishes. As the Foundation’s reputation grows, so do the number of people who believe in CRCF’s role and mission.
In addition to the previous 10 points, perhaps the most important thing to know about the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation is that all gifts matter. The notion of a gift being too small is just that…a notion. The fact is whether you are giving $1 or $10,000, every dollar is added to a portfolio that will ultimately serve to benefit the community as a whole. The Foundation today exists to serve you and will carry on its reputation of doing so. Take advantage of all the Foundation can offer by simply calling 661-3390. Above all, allow CRCF to be your foundation.