Community Leadership Circle

It's your Community. We are your Foundation.

For the past 25 years CFAAC has brought together the financial resources of individuals, families, and businesses to strategically leverage the impact our local nonprofits have in Anne Arundel County and beyond. In addition to serving the county through the traditional functions of a community foundation – attracting donors, building endowments, and making grants – CFAAC is focused on providing financial and educational opportunities to nonprofits from across the county.

Through CFAAC’s Community Leadership Fund, the Community Foundation is able to provide high-quality philanthropic services to our donors while serving the community as a thought partner, advocate for local nonprofits, and a catalyst for new ideas and community problem-solving. In addition, CFAAC draws together various stakeholders to develop new solutions affecting positive change in Anne Arundel County through philanthropy.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, CFAAC created the Community Leadership Fund to support the Foundation’s operational needs so it can continue to provide resources for the many local nonprofits and caring individuals that help make Anne Arundel County a wonderful place to live, work and play.

To support CFAAC’s mission with a gift to our Community Leadership Fund, donate here or call our office at 410-280-1102.

Nonpartisanship

Community foundations operate independently of political affiliations, focusing solely on addressing community needs and promoting the common good. Their nonpartisan stance enables them to work with a diverse range of stakeholders, fostering trust and collaboration across different sectors and perspectives. This impartiality ensures that their initiatives and decisions are driven by the needs and priorities of the community rather than political agendas.

Advocacy

Community foundations play a critical role in advocating for systemic changes and policies that benefit the community. They use their knowledge and resources to highlight important issues, influence public opinion, and support legislation that addresses the root causes of social problems. By acting as a voice for the community, they help to ensure that the needs and interests of local residents are represented and addressed.

Leverage

With their ability to pool and manage substantial resources, community foundations can leverage additional funding and support from various sources, including individuals, corporations, and government agencies. This amplifies the impact of their initiatives and allows them to undertake larger and more complex projects than would be possible with limited resources. By leveraging these resources, community foundations can maximize the benefits to the community.

Bridge to Resources

Community foundations act as a bridge between donors and the causes they care about, connecting philanthropic efforts with community needs. They provide a platform for donors to contribute to a wide range of initiatives, ensuring that resources are directed to where they are most needed. Additionally, they help nonprofits access funding, training, and other resources that enable them to be more effective in their missions.

Independence

Operating independently from government and private sector influence, community foundations have the freedom to address a broad array of community issues and needs. This independence allows them to take innovative approaches, pilot new programs, and support causes that may be overlooked or underfunded by other entities. Their autonomy ensures that their focus remains on the community’s long-term well-being.

Special Insight

Community foundations possess deep, localized knowledge of the communities they serve. This special insight comes from their close relationships with local nonprofits, community leaders, and residents. It allows them to identify emerging needs, understand the nuances of community dynamics, and develop targeted solutions that are informed by on-the-ground realities. This expertise makes them valuable partners in community development and philanthropy.

Experience Running and Funding Initiatives

With years of experience in managing and funding a variety of programs, community foundations have developed a robust understanding of what works in community development. They have a proven track record of implementing successful initiatives, managing funds efficiently, and achieving measurable outcomes. This experience positions them as trusted leaders and effective stewards of charitable resources, capable of driving meaningful change and fostering community growth.

Please support CFAAC’s Community Leadership Fund with a donation today. This Fund is at the heart of all we can do as a community, for our community.

CFAAC’s Community Leadership Fund requests gifts annually from our community and our work is supported by generous donors who have committed gifts to support CFAAC’s operational budget to ensure long-term sustainability. These investments make a real difference as CFAAC works to sustain our community today, tomorrow, and into the future.

To support CFAAC’s mission with a gift to our Community Leadership Fund, donate here or call our office at 410-280-1102.

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