Organizational Endowments
You take care of our community in so many ways. We can help you build a sustainable source of income for your organization and mission.
When you create an endowment at the Lancaster County Community Foundation, we aren’t just creating a fund – we’re forming a partnership. We’re on your team when it comes to organizational stability and sustainable funding. The Community Foundation currently partners with over 60 community benefit organizations across Lancaster County to administer and support the growth of their endowments.
- The ease of accepting a range of assets, including complicated ones like real estate or stocks
- Reduced reporting requirements
- Deep community connections
- Oversight of investments
- Publicity of your endowment through the Foundation’s website and social media
- Learning opportunities and resources specifically for endowment holders
Our team is available to meet with yours – including your board and committees – to discuss how an endowment can be a long-term tool for sustainability. Contact Ashlinn Masland-Sarani ([email protected]) for more information.
What are endowments (and why should you have one)?
Endowments are a tool for your organization’s long-term sustainability. They are assets (cash, stocks, real estate, and more) that are donated to your community benefit organization, with the expectation that the principal is not spent and is invested to earn interest. At the Community Foundation organizations can access 4% in funding from their endowment each year.
Endowments provide consistent, long-term funding for your organization. It can be attractive to donors as an indication that your organization is financially stable. Endowments can also be a natural way to talk with donors about legacy gifts.
Other funding can be inconsistent, depending on state and federal budgets or fundraising success.
Generational changes also mean that a significant wealth transfer is happening in Lancaster. $46 billion is transferring within families and across communities over the next few decades, which presents a unique opportunity to talk with donors about giving now and for the future sustainability of your organization and our community.
Ready to get started?
Meet organizations with Community Foundation endowments
The Community Foundation partners with organizations across Lancaster County to secure a lasting future for their work and their mission. See stories from some of our partnering community benefit organizations:
