mission
Essex County Community Foundation inspires philanthropy that strengthens the communities of Essex County by managing charitable assets, strengthening and supporting nonprofits and engaging in strategic community leadership initiatives.
impact by the numbers

granted from ECCF funds in support of important causes

grants awarded to nonprofits and students in Essex County and beyond

donors partner with ECCF to elevate their giving

invested in systems-based community leadership initiatives

individuals directly supported by systems-change efforts

organizations collaborating to address root causes of our most challenging issues
our systems approach
To address our region’s most complex social issues, ECCF employs a new kind of philanthropy, systems philanthropy.

stories of giving
Hearing about the devastation left behind by Hurricane Harvey, Michelle and Ben Langille’s two children got an idea. They would pick and sell the apples to raise money to help the thousands of people suffering in the aftermath.
stories of giving
Bill and Mary Wasserman feel passionate that strong arts and culture are critical to enhancing and sustaining a vibrant lifestyle and economic opportunity in Essex County, today and for the future.
stories of giving
The Pelican Intervention Fund, founded by Newburyport residents Kim and Steven Keene and Elizabeth McCarthy, is a grassroots organization created to help men and women struggling with addiction – most notably heroin addiction.
stories of giving
Linda and Jurg Siegenthaler have had a longtime passion for the city of Lawrence. “When I left the city, it was struggling,” said Linda, who grew up in the Tower Hill neighborhood. “Now there’s a lot of effort to bring it back and I want to be a part of that.”
get involved
Join us in working to address our biggest challenges and improve the quality of life in Essex County.
the latest eccf news
ECCF to Distribute $1.2 Million in COVID Relief Thanks to New State Grant
Over the next four months, Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF), which serves the 34 cities and towns of Essex County, will distribute $1.2 million to select area nonprofits serving and supporting those most vulnerable to the devastating effects of the pandemic.

Column: Expanding support for Salem’s small businesses
Small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities, and they play a critical role in creating vibrant main streets and strong local economies. In our area eateries, bookstores, salons, shops and tech companies, we make connections, support our friends and neighbors and witness innovative entrepreneurs in action.

Salem Announces New Small Business Loan Fund with Technical Assistance Services
The City of Salem is pleased to share a new opportunity for Salem’s entrepreneurs and business owners to access capital and technical assistance to start or to grow their business.
To learn more about ECCF, please call (978) 777-8876