History

The Hancock County Community Foundation (HCCF) was established in 1992 to perpetuate the rich heritage of philanthropy in the county and to provide new opportunities for donors. The Foundation serves as a vehicle for people of all means to make a lasting difference in the community through their philanthropic giving. The organization is designed to receive and professionally administer gifts, permanently invest the gifts, and then distribute the funds' generated income as directed by the donor.

HCCF receives gifts from individuals, families, organizations, corporations and other foundations. Gifts can be in the form of cash, real estate, stock, bequests, life insurance, charitable remainder trusts, etc. Donors may make a gift or bequest of any size. The Foundation is approved by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) organization and all contributions to the Foundation are tax deductible.

Endowment funds (permanently invested gifts) can provide income for community development grants, charitable organizations, and scholarships. All have the purpose of enabling others to build and improve the quality of life within the community forever.

HCCF began with $2,325 of endowed assets and has steadily grown over the following years to more than $10,000,000 in current endowed assets. Endowment distributions have likewise steadily increased, providing substantial impact through community grants and educational scholarships. The Foundation's vision is to be a leader of philanthropic activity in Hancock County and it works as a community partner to build a future for our community. The Foundation is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors, all residents of Hancock County.