Community Foundation of Boone County, Inc.

The Community Foundation of Boone County, Inc. (CFBC) is a non-profit philanthropic organization based in Boone County, Indiana. Established in 1991, CFBC aims to strengthen the local community by connecting donors with nonprofits and facilitating charitable giving. The foundation operates with the mission to improve the quality of life for all residents in Boone County through strategic grant making and community engagement.

History

The foundation was founded by a group of dedicated Boone County residents, fueled by a vision to create an enduring resource for the community. It began with initial funding of $15,000 and support from Lilly Endowment Inc. Over the years, CFBC has grown significantly, currently holding over $32 million in assets. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded more than $30 million in grants to local nonprofits and community programs, addressing various challenges faced by Boone County[1][3].

Mission and Values

The mission of CFBC is to unite people, organizations, and philanthropy to foster a thriving community. The foundation's core values emphasize:

• Empowerment and Engagement: Engaging community members and educating them about opportunities to make a positive impact locally.
• Strategic and Ethical Stewardship: Investing in programs and organizations that transform lives and communities sustainably.
• Collaborative Leadership: Leading efforts for collaborative solutions that address the root causes of community challenges in equitable ways[1][4].

Programs and Initiatives

CFBC offers various programs to support community development, including:

• Grants and Scholarships: The foundation provides financial support to local nonprofits and scholarships to students, fostering education and community advancement.

• Connect Boone County: This initiative promotes collaboration among nonprofits, enhancing the impact of their collective efforts.

• Women of Impact: A program designed to empower women to contribute to philanthropic endeavors and community projects.

• Gifts of Grain: An innovative approach that allows farmers to donate grain as a means of supporting the foundation’s initiatives[4][5].

In addition to these programs, CFBC manages a variety of endowed funds that provide ongoing support for specific causes and initiatives, ensuring that contributions continue to impact the community over time[3].

Impact and Future Goals

CFBC plays a critical role in fostering a culture of giving within Boone County. Through its endowment model, the foundation not only addresses immediate community needs but also builds sustainable resources for future generations. The organization continually adapts to meet the evolving needs of the community and aims to introduce new initiatives and educational programs to further its mission[4][5].

Looking forward, the foundation intends to enhance its grant-making efforts and expand its educational programs, including relaunching the Boone County Leadership program to develop future community leaders[3].

Through these comprehensive efforts, the Community Foundation of Boone County, Inc. strives to create lasting positive change and strengthen the bonds within the Boone County community.