This snapshot reflects data from 445 community foundations across the U.S. for fiscal year 2024 (FY24). Findings are based on responses to the CF Insights Annual Survey and supplemented with public financial statements for a more comprehensive view of high-level growth trends.
The Council extends our thanks to the community foundations that participated in our survey, the Indiana Philanthropy Alliance and its members for contributing their survey data, and Candid for sharing additional 990 data.
This peer space is curated for foundation staff that manage and lead scholarship programs, designed to be informal, peer-led conversations with fellow foundation staff (of all types) to share best practices and explore common challenges in scholarship programs. Whether you are new to managing scholarships or have years of experience, you’ll gain fresh ideas and build relationships with colleagues.
This peer space is curated for foundation staff that manage and lead scholarship programs, designed to be informal, peer-led conversations with fellow foundation staff (of all types) to share best practices and explore common challenges in scholarship programs. Whether you are new to managing scholarships or have years of experience, you’ll gain fresh ideas and build relationships with colleagues.
How do we know scholarship programs are making a difference – and how do we tell that story? In this peer event, scholarship professionals will explore practical ways to measure impact and success beyond dollars awarded. In peer discussion, we will discuss how to track and understand long-term impact of scholarship programs on students and communities.
Participants will share what they are measuring, what has been most useful, and where challenges still exist. Whether you are just starting to think about impact measurement or looking to strengthen your current approach, this peer conversation will offer ideas, tools, and inspiration to adapt to your own program.
To learn more about how you can connect with peers in the field, we encourage you to join the Philanthropy Exchange, as a space to ask questions, provide feedback, and share resources with scholarship professionals.
In 2026, we are launching a new virtual book club! We will be reading and discussing “Understanding the Phenomenon: A Qualitative Investigation of the McConnell Scholars Program.” Please reach out to Melissa Nolan at engagement@cof.org if you are interested in attending after the peer event!
This peer space is curated for foundation staff that manage and lead scholarship programs, designed to be informal, peer-led conversations with fellow foundation staff (of all types) to share best practices and explore common challenges in scholarship programs. Whether you are new to managing scholarships or have years of experience, you’ll gain fresh ideas and build relationships with colleagues.
In 2026, we are launching a new virtual book club! We will be reading and discussing “Understanding the Phenomenon: A Qualitative Investigation of the McConnell Scholars Program.” Please reach out to Melissa Nolan (Engagement@cof.org) if you are interested in attending!
Topic: Supporting Students Beyond the Award
Join this peer event to explore how scholarship programs can support beyond the financial award through mentorship, networking, and wrap around services that address real-life challenges. Together, we will share creative strategies for building meaningful connections between students, mentors, alumni, and community partners.
This interactive conversation is designed for scholarship professionals to discuss ideas, learn from peers, and leave inspired with actionable approaches you can adapt to your own scholarship programs.
You are invited to stick around after to join our first Book Club! We will be reading and discussing “Understanding the Phenomenon: A Qualitative Investigation of the McConnell Scholars Program.” Please reach out to Melissa Nolan (Engagement@cof.org) if you are interested in attending!
To learn more about how you can connect with peers in the field, we encourage you to join the Philanthropy Exchange, as a space to ask questions, provide feedback, and share resources with community foundation donor service professionals.
Philanthropic organizations face heightened attention and expectations. To support Council members, our Legal Resources team hosted a webinar on what philanthropic organizations need to know to engage confidently and responsibly in civic engagement work.
This session covered what organizations can and cannot do, and how to participate in civic engagement with integrity and impact. Whether your foundation is planning education efforts, community conversations, or other activities, this webinar will provide you with helpful information.
Watch this webinar to strengthen your understanding and ensure your civic engagement efforts remain compliant.
