The Community Foundation of West Kentucky is a model of leading-edge strategy, programming, and leadership on behalf of a shared commitment to improving the quality of life across the region. I have worked in organized philanthropy for over 30 years and been involved in the development of many foundations, philanthropic support systems, and leadership development programs. I can say with great confidence that the Community Foundation of West Kentucky plays a key role in advancing the field of practice, inspiring others to follow their example, and benefit from the experience of their innovative efforts.Regardless of the type of foundation being developed, it will be more effective in design and implementation by following the example provided by our regional community foundation At the heart of this successful effort is the blend of dedicated staff leadership and evidence of long-term sustainable impact on the community. They are among the key champions of every philanthropic effort across the region and beyond, from leading efforts to establish the Endow Kentucky legislation to organizing disaster relief efforts, the people of the Community Foundation of West Kentucky are always involved.Our family has benefited from the many programs and services promoted and supported by this important community leadership organization.Bob Long
There are so many different hats one must wear when building and growing a nonprofit and the Community Foundation of West Kentucky supports founders on that journey in truly meaningful ways. The resources and support provided to Sprocket through the Community Foundation was critical to our success. Not only were we able to receive guidance on setting up our nonprofit, but we also received fiscal sponsorship while waiting for our designation. This allowed us to launch and begin the work for the community and activate donors. The Paxton Challenge was another one of those lynchpin activities that fueled our funding to get our programs off the ground. In another instance during the pandemic, Tony and the team at CFWK connected us to grant resources that allowed our work with youth to continue and certainly changed and possibly saved some young lives. As we continue to build the economic vibrancy of the community, we look forward to continuing our partnership with the Community Foundation as they continue to find sustaining ways to support nonprofits and new businesses.
Review from Guidestar
The staff of the Community Foundation of West Kentucky have deep and long standing relationships with the residents of their community. This has been fundamental in shaping their engagement in the wake of disaster. They have demonstrated immense care and concern for both the funds entrusted to them and the survivors in need of resources. Speed and impact are consistent goals of the the initiatives they support. Stormwise Foundation has been blessed to have been one of these. As a result of their partnership, the people of West Kentucky have had access to the best disaster resources available.
The Community Foundation of West KY continually finds ways to make exceptionally positive impacts in the communities they serve. The staff's dedication and relentless effort to serve those who have been negatively impacted by adversity, such as the Tornado of 2021, is only one example of the hands on all in approach that they embrace to help so many incredible causes. They are truly a lifeblood for our communities.
Review from Guidestar
Paducah Schools Foundation has worked with the Community Foundation since 201. They have been so attentive and supportive to the needs of so many the local non-profit organizations and were instrumental in creating such a philanthropic community here in Western Kentucky. Because of the support and encouragement from the staff at CFWK, our foundation now has an endowment fund as well as dedicated funds in an investment account.
I am personally appreciative of their efforts and assistance in my work as secretary of our Foundation. They are always available to answer my many questions. I am especially proud to witness the CFWKY step up to assist the people in our region recently affected by the tornado devastation. They are a vital part of our community.
Paducah Cooperative Ministry has worked with the Community Foundation from its beginning. Without exception, we have found them to be extremely responsive to the needs of the local non-profit community and highly motivated to build a strong spirit of philanthropy in our region. Because of the CFWK, our organization now has an endowment fund as well as dedicated funds in an investment account to ensure the longevity and security of our ministry. We admire the dedication, integrity and professionalism of the Community Foundation. We just could not be more grateful for the work of the Community Foundation has done in our community to benefit countless agencies and individuals. What an impact!
The Community Foundation of West Kentucky has certainly impacted the lives of those within this region and beyond in such a positive way. As someone who learned of the CFWK through its involvement with local disaster relief efforts and then came to know of the support it offers to various other organizations in the area, I hold such deep appreciation and respect for the efforts of this local nonprofit as well as those who work to make it the reputable entity that it is.
Usually, when thinking of the stellar accomplishments of an outstanding organization, one thinks of one great story, two at the most. However, the list keeps growing, year-in and year-out. The knowledgable and professional leadership of the Community Foundation of West Kentucky has cast a vision that has continued to grow over the decades. It is remarkable the number of non-profits that have started with no endowment. Many of these same organizations now have hundreds of thousands of dollars in their endowment! This is because the Foundation's team members took a personal interest in them and helped each step of the way until they could stand strong.
None of this would be possible without a visionary Executive Director and a team that is committed and dedicated to this community. Whether it is helping tornado victims, the homeless, or abused children, this part of America is a better place to live and work because of the Community Foundation of West Kentucky.
The Community Foundation of West Kentucky truly serves West Kentucky. They accomplish this through high impact programs, generous funding, and forward thinking. They are an incredible community partner.
The Community Foundation of West Kentucky has provided phenomenal support for our MSU Nonprofit Leadership Studies program and our nonprofit partners in the region. We continue to be amazed at the growth, reach and impact the foundation has and continues to accomplish. Our communities are enriched by their hard work and dedication!
CFWK is truly a blessing to the west Kentucky communities that have historically combated the challenge of poverty. As donors, we appreciate their selfless service and feel confident our donation impacts the community. The CFWK track record speaks for itself!