Where to Give
Donors have the option of giving to an existing fund or establishing a new fund. In both cases, the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc. helps reduce administrative and legal costs while providing expert advice and support from our staff.
Give to an Existing Fund
Community Foundation manages more 130 charitable funds created by donors to support the causes that are important to them. See our Funds at the Community Foundation. Our funds generally fall into one of six main categories:
Donor-Advised Funds enable donors to contribute assets to their fund at any time and recommend grants to support groups of their choice. They are a flexible, personalized way to support nonprofit groups in Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes area or anywhere in the world.
Field-of-Interest Funds provide support to our donors’ favorite causes. Once they determine the issue(s) they want to support, the Community Foundation’s program staff identifies suitable grant recipients for their approval.
Scholarship Funds are designed for donors who are interested in helping students of all ages achieve their education goals. The fund can support students who are studying a particular subject, attending a specific school, or graduating from a specific school.
Supporting Organizations are separate non-profit corporations that operate under the Community Foundation’s charitable umbrella. Through its own board, a supporting organization determines its own investment strategy and grant priorities.
Designated Funds are ideal for donors who want to support one or more specific organization(s). Non-profit groups can also establish this kind of fund as part of their fundraising strategy.
Unrestricted Funds are ideal for donors who want to support the Community Foundation’s focus areas. This gives us the greatest latitude in deciding how to direct grants, based on our assessment of changing community needs.
Establish Your Own Fund
A special fund may be established in your name, in the name of your family or business, or in honor or memory of any person or organization you choose. Your fund may support an area or organization or you may ask the Community Foundation staff to recommend giving to help address the areas of greatest need in your community. Grants and scholarships are issued in your name or anonymously, depending on your preference.
