Types of Funds 

Any of these funds listed below can be established in the donor’s name, or the name of their family, for the benefit of a specific organization or in someone’s honor. All named funds may be established with a gift of $10,000 or more. Grants distributed from the fund – today and in the future – are then awarded to local charities in the name of the fund. It’s a great way to be involved with and remembered for good works in the community.
 
Unrestricted Funds
Unrestricted Funds are used to meet ever-changing community needs – including future needs which often cannot be anticipated at the time of the original gift. The Foundation evaluates all aspects of community well-being – arts and culture, economic development, education, environment, health and human services and more. An unrestricted gift is used to make a difference where it is needed most.

Field of Interest Funds
Field of Interest Funds allow the donor to support a broad area of interest such as culture, community development, education, environment, human concerns, and youth services. The Foundation awards grants to programs and or organizations supporting the specific field of interest.

Designated Funds 
Designated Funds allow the donor to direct their gift to a specific agency or purpose such as the Dinosaur Hill Nature Center , RARA, Rochestser Area Neighborhood House, Rochester Hills Public Library, Rochester Hills Museum ,  their church (with certain limitations), or virtually any non-profit charitable organization. The donor identifies the recipient agency or agencies and the Foundation staff manages the annual distribution of funds.

Donor Advised Funds
Donor Advised Funds provide the donor with ongoing involvement in the use of the gift. Donors work with the Foundation’s staff, identifying ways to use dollars from their Donor Advised Fund to address the community needs they care about most. Their recommendations are submitted to the Foundation’s Board of Trustees for approval and our staff manages distribution of grants. 

Scholarship Funds 
Scholarship Funds enable students to pursue their educational goals and can be established by individuals, families, organizations and companies. Donors may make recommendations to the Foundation's Board of Trustees regarding  the scholarship’s advisory committee and selection criteria. Scholarships are often used to honor or memorialize a loved one.

Administrative Funds 
Administrative Funds give donors the opportunity to provide support for the ongoing operations of the Community Foundation. Administrative Funds enable the Foundation to maintain modest fees for fund management services provided.