Community foundations are tax-exempt public charities organized as collections of individual funds. Individuals, families and organizations establish permanent charitable funds at community foundations for a variety of philanthropic reasons. These funds are intended for the long-term benefit of a specific geographic location, hence, “community” foundation.

Unique among charitable organizations, community foundations are experts on both sides of the philanthropic exchange, providing exceptional service to individual funds and developing deep knowledge of local communities and their needs.

In addition to facilitating their donors’ grantmaking, community foundations generally have their own grantmaking programs that focus on particular issues, a specific geographic region, or both. Learn about CCF's competitive grantmaking in Los Angeles County.

Community foundations are overseen by a volunteer board of local community leaders and run by professionals with expertise in the issues facing their community. There are currently more than 700 community foundations across the United States, with combined assets of about $35 billion.

About the California Community Foundation

• Established in 1915
• 53rd-largest foundation in the nation by asset size in fiscal year 2008-2009
• The premier giving partner in Los Angeles
• Stewards more than $1 billion in assets for our donors
• Invested more than $191 million in fiscal year 2008-2009 in philanthropic causes in L.A., the U.S. and throughout the world
• Granted more than $5 million in fiscal year 2008-2009 for the largest scholarship program in L.A. County
• Manages more than 1,600 funds created by individuals, families, corporations and nonprofit organizations
• Empowers donors to effect change in L.A., across the country and around the world

The foundation has met the most rigorous standards in philanthropy and is compliant with the National Standards of U.S. Community Foundations, administered by the Council on Foundations, a membership organization of more than 2,000 grantmaking foundations and giving programs worldwide. This affirms our commitment to financial security, transparency and accountability. Our grantmaking includes an open competitive, process designed to address our communities' changing needs. The seal also confirms our history of honoring donors' wishes — to ensure healthy, engaged and diverse communities.