A community foundation is a 501(c)(3) public charity that is endowed by the community. That means donors from the community give money (charitable gifts) to a foundation for the purpose of making the community stronger. The community foundation invests the money so the assets can grow into a charitable endowment. The interest and dividends earned on the endowments are given back to the community through grants. Today, community foundations are the fastest growing sector in philanthropy, with an increasing number of people looking to put their charitable dollars to work meeting community needs. As a community foundation, Minnesota Community Foundation plays a valuable and unique role. First, the Foundation is a vehicle for donors to contribute to the future health of Minnesota’s communities. Second, it makes charitable grants on behalf of donors and affiliated community funds to help organizations and communities around the state. Minnesota Community Foundation serves as a partner in philanthropy, complementing the efforts of other private and public charities, nonprofit organizations and civic efforts.