Permanence
No one thinks her/his organization will ever diminish, but it can happen.  The Community Foundation will see to it that the intent of the charter established will live on.  That is why we spend considerable time thinking through what we want the charter to say.


Marketing and Public Relations Assistance
We make sure the community knows that your fund exists, and is happy to accept additional donations. Your fund will be listed with all of our publications, and we will help you create news releases when appropriate.


Advertising / Recognition
Recipients of grants/scholarships allocated through each fund will be acknowledged through our annual report, newsletters, website, etc. We regularly announce grant recipients to the community and recognize the funds from which they came.  We also host an annual scholarship recognition luncheon where we recognize winners. 


Administration
We provide helpful administrative services.  We have a small part time staff in place that takes calls, mails grant/scholarship applications, answers questions, etc.  We see that the grants are accurately allocated and with scholarships, we get the right amounts to the right colleges/schools/universities in accordance with the new federal laws.  This takes time, but we already have many systems in place.  Similarly, we make an annual call for community grant applications, helping fund reps find potential need recipients.


Board Oversight
As another layer of protection, community leaders from law, education, business, banking, estate planning, marketing, etc. provide professional oversight for each fund.  There is a variance clause in every charter agreement that assures that the intent of the original charter is always in compliance.  We insure the dollars granted go only to charitable organizations/projects, maintain national standards, and comply with all laws.  We are connected to both the Donor's Forum of Wisconsin and the National Council on Foundations.


Pooled Investements with other Communtiy Funds
With over 6 million in assets, each fund can maximize its return and minimize fees.


Bi - Annual Reports
We provide fund representatives with regular information on the status of each account. We also provide a recommended allocation formula to make sure each fund can provide ongoing charitable support, while continuing to grow the corpus of the fund. While not mandatory, we do recommend a three-year rolling average times 4% as the amount to allocate.



Finally, a fund with the Community Foundation underscores a feeling that we are all in this together.  Knowing that we are trying to coordinate efforts to help those in need, enhance education, enrich arts and culture, contribute to wellness and improve/protect our natural environment gives one the sense of community at its very best.