Community Foundation
Roane County has a vehicle that allows anyone to become a philanthropist; it is the Community Foundation. "Roane County is a very special place and the people here have a long tradition of helping each other and helping their community. Our foundation is set up to help them do just that - in a way that makes good business sense," said Leslie Henderson, President/CEO of The Roane Alliance.
The Community Foundation of Roane County, established as a a tax-exempt organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, serves to enhance the quality of life for all Roane County citizens by providing for current and future needs in the areas of education, arts, health, social, community, civic services and economic development. Originally established in 2002, the foundation is governed by a Board of Directors who address community needs through grant making and scholarships.
Foundation Board members include Chair Jerry Stephens, Secretary/Treasurer Mike Albertson, Chris Ahler, Jackie Gallaher, Gary Baker, George Wilson, Mike Farmer and Paul Cowell. The Community Foundation of Roane County is administered through The Roane Alliance. Once a substantial capital base has been achieved, the community foundation will begin supporting community needs.
A community fund is similar to a savings account for the community, where the funds raised are invested and the income from those investments is used to meet the current and future needs of Roane County.
The Community Foundation of Roane County is made possible through donations, gifts, bequests, endowments and other resources from a wide range of donors. The scholarship program will be funded largely by donor directed funds from the public and private sectors. Health, arts, social and civic services programs will be funded through grants, matching grants and specific donor directed contributions. Economic development is currently supported by contributions from the public and an annual fundraiser, which also funded the startup costs of the foundation.
Distinct Features of the Community Foundation:
- Helps donors create a legacy
- Offers maximum tax advantages allowed by law
- Benefits local organizations
- Preserves donor intent
- Enhances our community forever
- By naming a fund for a loved one, you establish a permanent memorial
For more information on the Roane County Community Fund, please contact Leslie Henderson at 865-376-2093.
