About The Skagit Community Foundation

When did The Skagit Community Foundation get started?

The Skagit Community Foundation has been creating a community of giving since 1992.  Its founders Burl and Dorothy Ives and other Skagit County residents first established the foundation to build a performing arts center – now known as world-class McIntyre Hall.  Soon after, they realized that the foundation could do far more to serve the growing and evolving needs of our community.

What is the mission statement of The Skagit Community Foundation?

Provide a vehicle for donors to establish charitable endowments for good and for ever in Skagit County

What is the vision of The Skagit Community Foundation?

Lasting legacies foster improved lives in Skagit County

Is there an abbreviation for The Skagit Community Foundation?

Yes.  Often times you may receive correspondence using an abbreviation “ SCF” for The Skagit Community Foundation.  In official literature we spell out the name “The Skagit Community Foundation.”

Does The Skagit Community Foundation have a Strategic Plan?

Yes.  In 2009, the acting Board revised its vision, mission and selected five strategic directions. The plan covers operating years 2010 – 2012. Each year at the Board Retreat, we review our progress to ensure that our strategic plan supports our purpose.  Our five strategic directions include:

  • Maintain and nurture a board of directors that understands the workings of our foundation
  • Strengthen community relationships and partnerships
  • Expand donor support
  • Achieve financial sustainability
  • Become a catalyst for positive change in our community

What are the foundational pillars of The Skagit Community Foundation Strategic Plan?

  • Grow SCF endowments
  • Increase The Skagit Community Foundation’s visibility as “area experts”
  • Strengthen SCF Infrastructure with resources that promote success

How many formal committees does The Skagit Community Foundation have?

There are four formal committees:

  • Executive Committee
  • Finance Committee
  • Grants and Programs Committee
  • Marketing Committee

Specific task forces are often formed as required.   We encourage all board members to participate and attend specific committee meetings in addition to general board meetings during the year.

How many board members serve The Skagit Community Foundation?

Generally, the board size fluctuates between 16 and 18 members each year.

How many staff members serve The Skagit Community Foundation?

Currently The Skagit Community Foundation employs one full-time and one part-time employee.

How can I contact Skagit Community Foundation Staff?

John G. White, President
director@skagitcf.org
360.419.3181

Cynthia Eichner, Executive Director
scaha@skagitcf.org
360.899.5669

Where is The Skagit Community Foundation office?

The Skagit Community Foundation office is located at 1003 Cleveland Avenue in Mt. Vernon, WA

What is the mailing address of The Skagit Community Foundation?

SCF has a P. O. Box in Mt. Vernon.   The address is:
P. O. Box 1763
Mt. Vernon, WA 98273

How many funds does The Skagit Community Foundation manage?

Over 40 types of funds are currently being managed by The Skagit Community Foundation.  Since its inception, foundation distributions of $2,000,000 have been giving to organizations that care for our community.

When are grants from SCF distributed?

There are two grant cycles – the fall and the spring of each year.  Depending on the monies available, grants are distributed to qualified local nonprofits twice a year.

Does The Skagit Community Foundation provide specialized services for high-wealth individuals?

Yes.   We are working with PG Calc, a recognized consulting firm specializing in planned giving strategies.  As a service to our clients, we offer their services at no cost to high-income individuals who would like additional information on building their charitable giving strategy.

If I belong to a service organization or club in the community, can I offer a speaking engagement opportunity for The Skagit Community Foundation?

Yes.  We’d be happy to present information about The Skagit Community Foundation to area service clubs and civic organizations.Contact John G. White.

If I know someone who is interested in learning more about The Skagit Community Foundation, what should I do?

Your relationships with community leaders, friends and family provide a gateway to dialogue that can help build endowments that support the people who call our region “home.”

The staff of The Skagit Community Foundation will work closely with you to create a communication strategy and set up a meeting with you and your prospective donor.  We know that we have to earn trust and your support is critical to that process.  Email or phone:  Director@skagitcf.org or call 419.3181.

Should you have any further questions about The Skagit Community Foundation, contact John G. White.


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