Like some 700 community foundations across the U.S., The Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham:

• Is defined by the IRS as a tax-exempt public charity, made up of a number of grantmaking funds established by individuals, families and corporations. A volunteer board of leading citizens oversees operations and invests funds to grow over time as a perpetual endowment for the community.
• Awards grants to benefit nonprofit organizations, primarily in Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, Blount and Walker counties. 
• Protects a donor’s wishes in perpetuity, with discretionary power to redirect money from one agency to another if the first organization ceases operation. 
• Identifies current and emerging issues, serves as catalyst and collaborator with other organizations and brings resources together to meet changing needs.
• Serves as a trustworthy partner for private and corporate foundations as well as state and national funders because of local knowledge and connections. 
• Offers stability and flexibility for donors, through a variety of vehicles to support favorite causes through current or estate giving.  These include:
• Community Funds, Field of Interest Funds and Community Catalyst Funds, used to meet greatest needs and take advantage of opportunities for community transformation
• Scholarship Funds 
• Donor Advised Funds 
• Agency Endowment and Designated Funds 
• Planned Giving options, including Charitable Gift Annuities 
• Charitable Real Estate Foundation, which accepts these non-standard assets to benefit the Community Foundation or any local charity. 

• The largest and oldest community foundation in Alabama
•  Ranked in top 100 in national survey of 700 community foundations for assets, grants made and gifts received
• Certified in compliance with national standards for community foundations
  

Contact us to find out more.