Editor’s Note: You may have heard of a community foundation — but may not know what it is, or how it differs from other foundations. In this ongoing series, we will be breaking down the many aspects of a community foundation.

A community foundation is an organization dedicated to supporting a specific geographic area or affinity group. Much of its work is done with individuals, families, organizations and companies interested in supporting their community, and have decided to partner with a foundation to amplify their giving. These fundholders are often known as donors.

Reasons donors might partner with a community foundation vary. Often donors turn to a community foundation when they want to have an increased charitable impact, and seek guidance from foundation advisors who know the community. Community foundations can also offer several different funds, many providing flexibility, potential tax benefits, and guidance for establishing a giving legacy.

Some of the reasons donors choose to work with the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation include:

1. Personalized service and giving recommendations tailored to each fund

2. Localized community expertise specific to Minnesota

3. Access to a suite of resources to help develop and refine giving

4. Guidance for families on multigenerational giving

5. Support in creating a legacy

6. Exclusive invitations to donor events, where donors can learn about a variety of topics related to giving

Our donors contribute to the community in multiple ways, many of them personalized to their unique preferences. In 2023 alone, our donor advised funds recommended $57 million in grants to over 2,600 organizations, supporting organizations in nearly every county in the state.