In 1994, ten visionary thinkers gathered around a table to discuss a simple question:
How can we really change Central Florida for the better?
The answer was to join forces not just with their dollars, but with the full power of their vision, passion and community connection. Only then could they drive deep and lasting social change. This partnership evolved into the Central Florida Foundation.
Ten visionary thinkers come together to discuss the challenges facing Central Florida, the path to real change and philanthropic solutions for donors and nonprofits. The conversation inspires them to launch Central Florida Foundation, the region’s community foundation in 1994.
The administration of Winter Park Community Trust and its 68 funds is transferred to Central Florida Foundation, becoming the basis to support the Winter Park Community Grants.
Mark Brewer named President/CEO. Foundation establishes plan for growth, grant-making structure and makes its first home in College Park.
CFF administers an investment from Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to support the City of Orlando in launching the Parramore Kidz Zone. PKZ levels the playing field for Parramore’s children, equipping them to become successful, healthy, well-educated adults.
Formation of 100 Women Strong, a strategic giving circle committed to improving the lives of women and children in our community
Nonprofit Search, a powerful and searchable database of all nonprofits in the region, goes live.
Launch of Homeless Impact Fund and shift to Housing First model changes the region’s approach to addressing homelessness
Better Together Fund opens after Pulse tragedy on June 12. Fund supports four key areas to assist survivors and families and to help community heal.
Rally: The Social Enterprise Accelerator begins with first cohort.
housd, the Central Florida regional housing trust, officially launches to help create more affordable housing options for people.
The inaugural TableTalk brings over 3,000 people together over coffee or a simple meal to discuss the good and bad of the community and how to make it better.
With the onset of a global pandemic, CFF invests over $1.5 million to support COVID-19 relief in Central Florida and hosts on-going Critical Community Conversations.
WE ARE A LAUNCHPAD FOR
Spirit of Service – We value, respect, and serve as a catalyst to bring all people together. We collaborate with community partners to make Central Florida a place where everyone feels at home and our giving (or philanthropy) reflects our diverse community.
Take Action – We work with the community to solve our region’s emerging and ever-changing needs. Creative ideas, proven research and innovative strategy fuel the way we approach social problems.
Words Matter – We respond quickly, share ideas openly, welcome direct dialogue, and encourage challenging conversations. We are open to listen and to do better.
An Open Book – We provide data and knowledge about our operations and the state of the community. We are honest and direct about how decisions are made. We believe transparency and inclusiveness help create lasting change.
Preserve & Respect – We acknowledge the history of Central Florida and its residents – both positive and negative. We are wise stewards of the philanthropy and legacies of our donors.
As we work to create a better Central Florida, we follow the guiding principles of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, a blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all.
800 North Magnolia Avenue, Suite 1700
Orlando, FL 32803
p. 407.872.3050
© 2023 Central Florida Foundation
