Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, Inc.

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, Inc., originally known as the Utica Foundation, was established in December 1952. This organization operates as a community-based social impact investor, focusing on engaging, investing, and leading initiatives to improve life and livelihood in the Mohawk Valley region.

History

The foundation was created to allow individuals to establish charitable endowments for the community. It began with a vision of local leaders to form a "community savings account," a perpetual trust fund dedicated to supporting future community needs. The first substantial gift came from Rosamond G. Childs in 1956, marking the establishment of the Foundation's first fund. Initially, the Foundation grew slowly, managed by a volunteer board. However, it experienced rapid growth in the 1980s through significant bequests, leading to the hiring of its first full-time staff by 1989.

In the 1990s, the Foundation expanded its operations and assets, changing its name to better represent its mission across Herkimer and Oneida counties. Today, it works with donors, fundholders, and community partners to advance and enhance the two-county community. The Foundation is credited with investing over $100 million in community development projects.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the Community Foundation is to improve life and livelihood in the region by advancing leadership on community solutions and philanthropy. This is achieved by connecting people who care with causes that matter. The Foundation envisions a vibrant, healthy, and economically viable region where all people can reach their highest potential.

Philanthropic Initiatives

The Foundation is involved in various initiatives aimed at addressing systemic issues in the community. Notable initiatives include the Lead-Free Mohawk Valley program, which aims to eliminate childhood lead poisoning, and the Community Equity Initiative, a $10 million commitment over 10 years to address racial equity and social justice. This initiative focuses on neighborhood revitalization, starting in areas like Utica's Cornhill district and West Utica.

In addition to these efforts, the Foundation supports students through scholarship programs and fosters community development through collaborative partnerships with local nonprofits. The organization's financial strategies include pooling and investing donations to meet evolving community needs.

Financial Operations

As a 501(c)(3) organization, the Community Foundation operates under a philanthropy and voluntarism framework. Its financial base includes contributions, investment income, and asset sales, with a reported total assets of over $126 million as of recent filings. Donations to the organization are tax-deductible.

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties continues to play a pivotal role in enhancing community vibrancy and fostering positive change across the Mohawk Valley region.