Mount Dora Community Trust

The Mount Dora Community Trust is a nonprofit organization established in 1972 with a mission to enhance the quality of life in Mount Dora, Florida, and surrounding North Lake County. It is recognized as a tax-exempt charitable organization focused on supporting local educational, charitable, and civic causes.

History and Structure

Founded by a visionary donor, the trust has grown to administer contributions from numerous donors, benefiting various local residents and initiatives. It operates under the oversight of The First National Bank of Mount Dora, which serves as the trustee of the funds donated to support community projects.

Programs and Initiatives

The Mount Dora Community Trust is involved in several key programs:

• Scholarships: It provides extensive scholarship support to local students, helping them pursue higher education. Many recipients return to Mount Dora after graduation, contributing as professionals in various fields such as healthcare and education.

• Donor Advised Funds: The trust manages these funds, allowing donors to advise on charitable distributions during their lifetime.

• Community Impact Grants: It distributes grants to local charities three times annually, supporting a wide array of community needs, including education, arts, and social welfare initiatives.

Supported Causes

The trust has supported a diverse range of causes and organizations, including:

• Historic Preservation: Notably, it contributed to the restoration of the historic Mount Dora railroad station, now home to the Chamber of Commerce.
• Cultural and Educational Institutions: It has funded projects for the Community Building, the Mount Dora Music Festival, the Mount Dora Historical Society, the Center for the Arts, and the Mount Dora Library.
• Social Welfare and Animal Support: The trust also supports animal shelters and provides assistance for abused women and children.

Impact and Achievements

Since its inception, the Mount Dora Community Trust has disbursed over $15 million in grants to local charities, making it a significant contributor to community development in Lake County. It currently oversees more than 90 sub-funds dedicated to various charitable purposes.

Financial Ratings

The organization has received a 3/4 Star rating from Charity Navigator, indicating its reliability and financial responsibility as a nonprofit.

EIN Information

Mount Dora Community Trust is registered under the Employer Identification Number (EIN) 23-7227875.