Unrestricted Giving Really Matters
As the Program Associate for the Community Foundation, I am in a unique spot when it comes to grantmaking. I’m an advocate for the grantee, and a spectator without a vote.
Recently, I attended a meeting where members of the Iosco County CF Board reviewed applications for their annual Common Grant. It’s always fascinating to see how a large group comes to consensus on the great task of giving away money. It is always agreed – there are rarely any programs that are not worthwhile.
The reason I bring all this up is because I have been working to help our affiliates make donors more aware of what unrestricted giving (creating or giving to a fund whose purpose is to address the changing needs of the community) can do. Watching the granting process unfold reminds me how valuable those unrestricted assets really are.
The Iosco County CF Board poured over the many grant applications they received, trying their best to wisely spend the limited amount of money available for the year. As they discussed various aspects of each project, two major themes kept emerging as important issues Iosco County faces, right now. Like the rest of the country, Iosco was hit hard by the recession; many of its residents are in great need of the basic essentials. Additionally, businesses are struggling as tourism, one of the area’s main money makers, has declined. Though not all their 2010 Common Grants focus on these issues, several do. It is that outcome which highlights how unrestricted funds allow the Community Foundation to meet needs in their communities as they change and emerge.
Once the economy has truly recovered, there is no doubt the focus of ICCF’s grant making will shift to the next pressing issue. That flexibility is what makes a Community Foundation one of the greatest assets we have.
Happy Spring!
Christine Bruske-Hitch
CFNEM Program Associate
