Common Questions

When was the Community Foundation created and how has it grown?
The Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham was created by community leaders in May of 1959 as the Greater Birmingham Foundation.  The first Advised Fund was the Mervyn & Dora Sterne Fund. Today, the number of grantmaking funds has grown to more than 440, with an average size of $306,000 and the largest fund more than $20 million. Follow this link for more detailed numbers.

How does the Community Foundation compare to other community foundations?
The Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham stands out because one-third of its assets are held in Community, Field of Interest and Community Catalyst Funds, all allowing maximum flexibility to improve the life of our region. Out of more than 700 community foundations across the nation, comparison data for 2011 ranked the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham #81 for gifts received ($13.8 million), #75 for market value of its assets ($151 million) and #60 for grants awarded ($14.9 million). Follow this link to learn more about Community Foundations.

How are the funds of the Community Foundation invested?
The Investment Committee of the Board of Directors determines the investment policy of funds established with the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham, Inc., a corporate form created in 1997.  This policy is highly diversified and uses a number of different money managers. Individual grantmaking funds also may be established in trust format at one of several financial institutions.

Who has led the Community Foundation?
Kate Nielsen currently serves as President.  Past Presidents/Executive Directors include Peggy Spain McDonald, 1964-1991; Sheila S. Blair, 1992-1997, and Mimi W. Tynes, 1998-2000.

Where can I find the latest Report to the Community? Click here for the information as published in September 2011.