Who
We
Are.
Who We Are.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
– Margaret Mead
Who We Are
The Community Foundation is that small group of people. We operate with the understanding that we can make a big difference in the world—one gift at a time. With over 50 years of grant-giving experience, we are committed to the future of the community. We find creative ways to support the growth and development of our community by forging lasting relationships with, and between, donors, advisors, leaders, and non-profits in the region.
Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization classified as a publicly supported 501(c) (3) charity under the Internal Revenue Code. We are governed by a community-based, volunteer board of directors and administered by professional staff. We serve the counties of Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben and Yates in the Southern Tier of New York State.
Vision:
A thriving and enriching community for all.
Mission:
Leveraging the power of philanthropy to create a great place to live, give, and thrive.
Workplace Culture:
We strive for harmony – the recognition that our work and personal lives are woven together. We embrace their interconnectedness and allow them to enrich and support each other. We share our energy in pursuit of a life that feels purposeful. We express gratitude to the people who play a key role in helping us build a more equitable and just world.
Workplace Values:
Honesty and Integrity
We try our best and adhere to a set of core values even when no one is watching. We demonstrate this in the way we treat each other and manage our daily interactions with the communities we serve.
Love and Belonging
We are free to share opinions and stive to truly care for and accept each other. Our work is grounded in love which fosters a healthy mindset, environment, and authenticity as we work in service to others.
Innovation and Creativity
We are curious and open-minded. We are willing to support promising solutions whose results may be unpredictable. We take risks and are unafraid to fail, so that we may learn and grow.
Respect and Support
We value each other’s individual strengths and the contributions they make. We promote a positive culture in which everyone feels fulfilled, loyal, engaged, and motivated. We are deeply committed to one another’s health, learning, and resiliency as we work to realize the Community Foundation’s vision and mission.
Joy
We seek and find joy – the underlying inner peace and contentment that lasts despite the pressures of life. This is an important part of our culture as we work to elevate and alleviate the many challenges we face.
What is a Community Foundation?
A community foundation is a tax-exempt, nonprofit, autonomous, publicly supported, philanthropic institution composed of permanent funds established by separate donors for a defined geographic area. Community foundations provide an array of services to donors who wish to establish endowed and non-endowed funds without incurring the administrative and legal costs of starting independent foundations. The Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes Inc., does not participate in activities that would necessitate filing IRS Form 990-T. If, however, that were to change it would be available for inspection.
Giving Priorities
Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc. helps individuals, families, companies and organizations to invest in the future of the Southern Tier community and its people. Formed as a public charity, we award grants to non-profit organizations whose programs make a positive impact on the needs and issues that face our community.
We address the current needs of the community through a multiple avenue approach to correct the problems that exist and find creative solutions to avoid the problems in the future. The Community Foundation also prides itself on being the only foundation in the area that looks at the holistic needs in the community, including education, arts, infrastructure, animals, the environment and wellness.
Students
College is expensive. We have scholarships to help you pay.
Nonprofits
Our programs and funds are designed to support your big ideas.
Donors
You can make a lasting investment in the life of your community.
Professional Advisors
Work with us to help your clients meet their charitable goals.
Our Commitment to Anti-Racism
Building an anti-racist world isn’t something we take lightly at the Community Foundation. We are grateful for your support, encouragement, and partnership as we continue this journey together.
Keep in Touch
Whether it’s through email or text messages, don’t miss out on the latest news and updates!
