Adirondack Foundation

The Adirondack Foundation is a nonprofit organization designated as a 501(c)3, specializing in philanthropy, voluntarism, and grantmaking foundations. It is categorized under the National Taxonomy of Exempt Entities (NTEE) as a community foundation.

Vision and Mission

The Adirondack Foundation serves as a cornerstone for community development in the Adirondack region by fostering connections between individuals, nonprofit organizations, and communities. It aims to improve lives and expand opportunities throughout the region by connecting people, ideas, and resources. The foundation is guided by a philanthropic vision known as the "Strong Community Framework," which focuses on investing in promising opportunities across five key areas: basic needs, educational pathways, economic vitality, arts and culture, and the environment.

Programs and Initiatives

One of the signature initiatives of the Adirondack Foundation is the Special and Urgent Needs Fund, designed to provide responsive grants to Adirondack communities and nonprofits during times of crisis. These grants are aimed at addressing short-term needs where a small amount can significantly impact unanticipated gaps in funding. Eligibility for these grants is limited to 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations and other qualified charitable entities.

The foundation also supports educational pathways, economic vitality initiatives, arts and culture programs, and environmental projects. Grants typically range from $250 to $2,500, though larger grants can be awarded if deemed necessary.

Financial Information

According to recent filings, contributions constitute a significant portion of the foundation's revenue, with investment income and asset sales also contributing substantially. For example, in a recent fiscal year, contributions accounted for over 85% of total revenue, while investment income made up about 7% and asset sales approximately 5%. The foundation manages substantial assets, which are utilized to support its community-focused initiatives.

Governance and Leadership

The Adirondack Foundation is governed by a diverse board of directors, which ensures an inclusive recruitment process resulting in diverse thought and leadership. The board conducts regular assessments of its performance and oversees the chief executive, maintaining high levels of ethics and transparency.

Overall, the Adirondack Foundation plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life in the Adirondack region through strategic philanthropy and community engagement.