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A Community Foundation

Community Foundations build and strengthen communities by making it possible for a wide range of donors to participate in philanthropy that addresses current and future needs. With a focus on leadership and problem solving, Community Foundations have become catalysts for improvement in communities across the nation. And by promoting permanent endowment giving, they have also become stewards of the future. For these and many other reasons, Community Foundations make up one of the fastest growing sectors of philanthropy in the United States today.

Who Is CFSWW?

How many community foundations are there in the U.S.?
Established in 1984, the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington is one of more than 700 community foundations in the United States.
When was the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington established?
This organization was established on April 24, 1984 under its former name, Clark County Community Foundation.
How are we governed?
We are governed by a volunteer Board of Directors consisting of local leaders who are knowledgeable about and dedicated to the charitable activities of southwest Washington.
How much has the Community Foundation granted since inception?
In partnership with our fundholders, the Community Foundation has granted more than $145 million since our inception.
How many different funds are we home to?
We are home to more than 300 separate funds which distribute hundreds of grants annually, addressing arts and culture, basic needs and healthy living, communities and neighborhoods, conservation and the environment, and education.
How many students do we support through scholarship funding?
We support the academic futures of more than 200 students each year through approximately 50 scholarship funds. More than $4 million in total scholarship funding has been awarded.
What's the big deal with our Community Giving Fund?
This fund pools donations from people of all walks of life to provide grants to local organizations. These grants have ranged in size from $2,500 to a $200,000 Impact Grant, and have collectively provided millions for the betterment of southwest Washington.
How do our volunteer grant committees operate?
Our volunteer grant committees, experienced in local issues, guide the process of awarding grants to local nonprofit organizations with due diligence.
How do we facilitate landmark projects in the community
We are a leader in facilitating landmark projects by connecting donors to community needs such as the Clark County Food Bank, the Vancouver Community Library and the Humane Society for Southwest Washington.