A monthly newsletter for Community Foundation friends, donors, and fund holders.

Hello from the Community Foundation! 

Already we are hearing from many donors and fund holders about your year-end giving plans. We couldn’t be happier that so many of you are planning ahead to be sure you have plenty of time to accomplish your charitable goals for 2024. Of course, we’re happy to help put things together right up until the end of December, but it’s really nice to have plenty of time to ensure that charitable, tax, and estate planning objectives are all considered. This is especially important if you’re just getting started working with the Community Foundation or are considering doing so this year. We’re ready to talk when you are! 

In this issue of Giving Matters, you'll find a selection of highlights and educational materials:

• Our 2023 Annual Report is now available!​ Learn about the impact that our donors and fund holders made last year.
• We share how Art Matters is collaborating with businesses and organizations across the community to make a notable impact in the lives of children. In 2023 alone, the group distributed 627 free art packs!
• With potential tax law changes on the horizon, many people are taking a closer look at how the standard deduction might impact their charitable planning for the next few years. Learn how the Community Foundation can help you and your advisors work through various scenarios for organizing your giving so you don’t leave dollars on the table either for yourself or your favorite charities.
• Giving to charity makes people happy. That certainly does not come as a surprise to most people who incorporate philanthropy into their lives, but you might be interested to learn how the research on these positive emotions connects to the charitable giving tools available through the Community Foundation. Lots of reasons to smile! 

As always, it is our pleasure to work with you as you fulfill your charitable intentions. Every day, we are inspired by the generosity of our donors and fund holders.

Enjoy this beautiful start to fall!

Becca Baumbach
​Executive Director

Featuring highlights, statistics, and stories from the Community Foundation.

2023 not only marked our 25th anniversary, but it was one of the most impactful years in our history! In all, the Foundation distributed a record-setting $1.35 million across 247 grants to aid animal welfare, advance human services, amplify creativity and culture, and enhance initiatives for better health and well-being.

Because of the unwavering support of our donors and fund holders, the Foundation has grown to nearly $22 million in assets and continues to evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of our region - from elevated rates of childhood poverty and accessible healthcare to equity in the workforce and mental health issues exacerbated by the pandemic. We are dedicated to serving our region today while investing to address the unknowns of tomorrow.

Because of the unwavering support of our donors and fund holders, the Foundation has grown to nearly $22 million in assets and continues to evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of our region - from elevated rates of childhood poverty and accessible healthcare to equity in the workforce and mental health issues exacerbated by the pandemic. We are dedicated to serving our region today while investing to address the unknowns of tomorrow.
 
Since 1998, we have distributed a total of $12.5 million to organizations on the front lines of these issues and many more. We owe this incredible accomplishment to you who have chosen to give in ways both big and small, but, together, are making a notable impact for good.

Highlights from a recent grantee of the Community Foundation.

In the greater Grand Forks area, Art Matters stands as a pillar of creativity for underserved children. Founded in 2022, this small but impactful organization has been making a significant difference in the community.

The core mission of Art Matters is to get free packs of art supplies to children in need. Each art pack, averaging ten dollars to assemble, includes crayons, markers, colored pencils, a large eraser, a glue stick, a sketchbook, pencils, and a drawstring bag. The organization, fiscally sponsored by the Community Foundation, works in collaboration with other nonprofits to identify where these supplies will have the largest effect.

Art for All

The inspiration for Art Matters stems from the childhood of its founder, Carrie Sapa, whose experience of artistic freedom was a tremendous outlet for creativity and problem-solving. The turning point came during her college years at the University of North Dakota when a professor highlighted the lack of access to art materials among many children. This revelation motivated Sapa to ensure that every child could experience the joy and benefits of art. With the help of the Community Foundation, Art Matters was born.

Measuring the impact of accessible art supplies is an integral part of their mission. Sapa often delivers the packs herself, witnessing firsthand the excitement they bring to the children. “I have seen kids literally jump for joy and hug their art packs as soon as they get them,” says Sapa. “This kind of feedback tells me we are doing the right thing.” Read more.

Support the important and impactful work of Art Matters with a tax deductible gift.

Stay up-to-date on benefits, opportunities, and changes that may impact your charitable giving.

GRANT PROGRAMS

• The Brockman Feldman Family Fund seeks to increase the reach and accessibility of academic extracurricular activities in Grand Forks, Walsh, and Polk Counties. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
• The Neel Family Fund Grant Program supports music education for children 18 years of age and younger in Grand Forks County, ND. Public entities, such as schools and libraries, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits (or organizations fiscally sponsored by such) are invited to apply for funding. Applications open September 3 and close October 31 at noon.​

EVENTS

• The Community Foundation invites donors and fund holders to our annual Gratitude Gathering. The event will take place on Wednesday, November 6, 5:00-7:00pm at The Opal. Brief remarks by HOPE, Inc. and the Grand Cities Children's Choir will be made at 6:00pm. Hors d'oeuvres and refreshments will be served. RSVP by October 18 at gofoundation.org/rsvp.

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION HOURS
Our office is open Monday through Thursday from 10am to 4pm. Meetings are by appointment. We keep remote hours on Fridays from 10am to 4pm and are available by phone and email.

This newsletter as well as any referenced materials are provided for informational purposes only. They are not intended as legal, accounting, or financial planning advice.