Two girls reading about Growing Roots...Strengthening Neighbourhoods

Community events like this one in the Beasley neighbourhood, help to foster relationships between residents, groups and community organizations which are an important part of improving the quality of neighbourhood life.  

Resources

FAQs

What is a community foundation?
Community foundations are charities that receive gifts from generous local citizens. These gifts are held forever as capital in an endowment. The income is distributed annually as grants to local charities and major leadership initiatives while the principal remains untouched. Community foundations have three major roles:
  • Endowment Building/Donor Service: We help donors, their families and their advisors satisfy their philanthropic impulse in a way that suits their goals and circumstances.
  • Grantmaking: Because we are a local organization with a local board and staff, we know about local needs and opportunities, monitor community needs, conduct research, gather information and work closely with local agencies and programs, and direct resources to appropriate areas.
  • Community Convening and Leadership: We act as a catalyst for change by bringing people and organizations together to convene community dialogues and build partnerships to address local issues and leverage opportunities.
How large is the community foundation movement?
There are more than 1,100 community foundations in 42 countries. Canada is a recognized leader in this growing global movement, with close to 160 community foundations across the country.  Each community foundation is autonomous and governed by a volunteer board of local leaders. 
When was the Hamilton Community Foundation established?
The Hamilton Community Foundation is Ontario's oldest community foundation and was established in 1954.
Who governs the Hamilton Community Foundation?
The Foundation is governed by a local board of directors of community leaders and is administered by professional staff.
What is the difference between a community foundation and a private foundation?
A community foundation is supported and funded by a broad group of unrelated individuals, families, businesses, associations and charitable organizations with the common connection being a desire to improve the local community. Private foundations by contrast, are generally supported by a single individual, family or business.      
What are the unique aspects of a community foundation?
Donors can give to any number of charities through the a community foundation. They can also choose various types of funds, different ways in which gifts can be made and their own degree of personal involvement. As well, they can benefit from significant time, cost and tax savings and our grant making expertise.
What is an endowment fund?

An endowment fund is a permanently invested sum of money whose income is distributed to charitable causes.

Hamilton Community Foundation assets represent separate endowment funds established by local individuals, families, businesses and charitable organizations. Each fund may have a special purpose, but the Foundation's board of directors representing the community, oversees them all. 

How are the Foundation funds invested and managed?
Responsibility for the Foundation's investment portfolio is vested in the board of directors with the guidance of the Investment Committee. The Investment Committee works closely with professional staff and investment advisors to recommend policy, establish performance benchmarks and monitor the performance of the portfolio.  
What types of funds can be established?
Donations to the community foundation are generally used to establish one or more of several types of funds, any of which can bear the name of an individual, family, corporation or charitable cause; or the fund can be anonymous. Please see Types of Funds for more information  
Can I give anonymously?
Yes, anonymous gifts are welcomed, although allowing us to acknowledge our donors' generosity often inspires others to give. 
What is the difference between a community foundation and the United Way?
Both are important resources to the community. The United Way raises and distributes money yearly through an annual campaign, while a community foundation distributes a portion of its annual investment returns from permanent funds endowed in perpetuity. While the United Way generally focuses its funding on health and human services, largely through its member agencies, our focus broadly includes a full range of community interests such as the environment and arts and culture.
How are grant recipients chosen?
Grant recipients are selected in one of two ways: 
  • Through an open-call process where organizations can apply according to specific criteria. A list of these funds and their criteria is available under HCF grants.
  • Through our knowledge of community needs and donor interests. IF you have a funding need that meets HCF priorities but does not necessarily meet the criteria of our open call grants, staff may be able to help you link to appropriate grants. Contact us at grants@hcf.on.ca.
I'm not a registered charity, can I apply for a grant?
HCF provides grants for projects that benefit the citizens of Hamilton and by law, provides grants only to registered Canadian charitable organizations and others qualified as described in Section 110 of the Income Tax Act. On occasion, not-for-profit organizations without charitable status may be sponsored by a registered charity.
Where are you located?
Our address is 120 King Street West, 7th Floor, Hamilton. We are in the Standard Life Tower at the corner of King and Bay, attached to Jackson Square in downtown Hamilton.