Endowments are a donation of money or property to a nonprofit organization, which uses the resulting income for a specific purpose. 

Donations made to the Rochelle Area Community Foundation (RACF) Endowment Fund are wisely invested and permanently grow. Each year a percentage of the endowed fund can be distributed in the form of grants. 

Local nonprofit organizations apply for RACF grants to fund projects that will help those throughout the community. In 2021, grant requests totaled nearly $100,000 and the RACF was able to fully fund every request, thus pouring an immense amount of money into the Rochelle area.   

Being a donor to the foundation’s endowment fund not only allows RACF the opportunity to make a direct impact on the lives of those in need, but allows the foundation to be flexible in meeting the current needs of our community. 

Our purpose is to offer those with a philanthropic heart a simple way to make a positive difference, to empower community nonprofits through donor stewardship. Remember, a helping hand is always within reach.

If you would like to learn more about making a donation or establishing an endowment fund through the RACF, please call me at 815-561-3600 or email director@rochellefoundation.org.

Emily Anaya is the executive director of the Rochelle Area Community Foundation.