We see great needs in Essex County as well as great opportunity. We are a region of extremes— home to some of the poorest cities in Massachusetts as well as some of the wealthiest.
Nonprofit organizations serve everyone in every aspect of life. They are truly a gift of democracy and collaboration and ECCF is devoted to supporting the work they do. These organizations feed our hungry neighbors and care for the sick and the elderly, they protect our wetlands, educate and inspire our children, counsel the abused, and help to enrich our lives through the arts and humanities.
We partner with donors
We provide many options to donors to make charitable giving easy and rewarding. We advise on what type of fund would help meet their philanthropic goals, help maximize the impact of their giving though solid financial management and professional guidance and offer a wealth of knowledge about the nonprofits operating in Essex County.
We support nonprofit organizations
We award grants and provide many learning opportunities to nonprofits including workshops, consulting and conferences through our Center for Nonprofit Excellence. Through these trainings nonprofit leaders receive knowledge and expertise on all aspects of running a successful organization and they also experience a sense of community and support.
We build collaboration
By convening interest groups and talking with individuals and nonprofits all over the county we are always learning about the issues and needs of the people in our region. We bring together peer groups to create special programs to address these needs and help make Essex County a better place for all.
Why is this important? Essex County has a diverse population of over 750,000 people that are served by around 2500 nonprofits. Collectively these nonprofits produce 16% of our economy and up to 20,000 of us serve on nonprofit boards. Nonprofit leaders must successfully manage programs, resources and people to provide effective services. The Community Foundation is increasingly their source of leadership development, best practices, financial support and guidance.
