Quick Facts

WHAT IS A COMMUNITY FOUNDATION?

Community foundations are tax-exempt public charities that invest and administer a pool of funds established by individuals, families, businesses and organizations. Each fund provides grantmaking dollars for community needs. Like all community foundations, the WCF is overseen by a volunteer board of leading citizens and run by professionals with expertise in knowing our community’s needs. Learn more.

GIFTS FROM THE COMMUNITY

At the end of its first fiscal year in 1999, the Foundation had $100,000 in assets; currently the Foundation has assets of approximately $26 million. Last year, generous local donors made gifts of over $1.1 million to the Foundation. Read some of our donors’ stories.

GRANTS TO THE COMMUNITY

Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded grants and scholarships totaling $11.3 million to more than 200 nonprofit organizations and over 1,000 students. The Foundation makes competitive grants in its service area; James City County, York County and Williamsburg. Learn more.

ASSETS TO GIVE

Gifts in any amount may be made to the Community Endowment, Annual Fund or to any named fund in the form of:

Check or credit card (click here to give online)
Negotiable securities

The Foundation will also accept the following types of gifts: real or personal property, life insurance, retirement assets, bequest by will or charitable trust. Please call 757-259-1660 for information prior to making any gifts of these types. Learn more.

TYPES OF NAMED FUNDS

Named funds may be established to serve a donor’s philanthropic interests. Learn more.