Professional Advisors
News & Announcements
Bottom 10 Again?
A Call to Engagement for Business and Community Leaders
August 14 2018 • Leslie Hartog
WalletHub has made it harder for Florida to attract new businesses and talent by telling Millennials they don’t want to live here. Florida ranked 42nd for best places to live for Millennials in a recent article. While we ranked in the bottom half in all five categories, our most shocking...
Central Florida Foundation Announces Grants to Area Nonprofits
July 12 2018 • CFF Team
ORLANDO — July 12, 2018— Central Florida Foundation today announces the grants from its annual Community Investment Grant Round. The Foundation’s board of directors approved the following projects and nonprofits to receive grants: Up to $24,357 to Jewish Family Services of Greater Orlando to expand KidsKonnect, an eight-week in-school mental...
Richard's Story of Homelessness to Housed
June 27 2018 • Dewey Wooden, LMHC
It all began in 1996. Struggling to battle a chronic mental illness, Richard had become disillusioned with life, and at 45-years-old, he packed a 100-pound bag of gear and walked away from his life. He left a successful catering business, his wife of eight years, and the children he had...
Area Community Foundation Merges with Central Florida Foundation
Foundation moves forward with transition to preserve legacy
June 21 2018 • CFF Team
ORLANDO, Fla. (June 21, 2018) – In an effort to streamline operations and continue its legacy, the Board of Directors of the Community Foundation of East Central Florida (CFECF) voted to sunset its operations in Volusia, Flagler and Putnam Counties. To honor the original donor intent of the funds at...
Windows and Mirrors
Shaping a more equitable and inclusive community through education
June 14 2018 • Rachel Calderon
This is the first story in a series about projects supported by the Better Together Fund at Central Florida Foundation. The fund was established after the Pulse tragedy as a way for the community to respond to the immediate and long-term needs. The fund supports four key areas including: gaps...
The 49 Fund at Central Florida Foundation Marks Pulse Anniversary with Scholarships for Eight Local LGBT Students
Recipients selected for academic excellence, commitment to improving community
June 09 2018 • CFF Team
ORLANDO, Fla.—(June 9, 2018) – In its continuing effort to honor those lost in the Pulse tragedy, The 49 Fund at Central Florida Foundation will today award eight scholarships in the amount of $4,900 each for local college students. The recipients, their hometowns and schools include: William (Billy) Budd (New...
RALLY: THE SOCIAL ENTERPRISE ACCELERATOR ANNOUNCES SUMMER COHORT
Program selects six finalists for mentorship and resources
June 06 2018 • CFF Team
ORLANDO, Fla. – (June 6, 2018) – Rally: The Social Enterprise Accelerator today announces the six finalists to participate in its summer cohort. The six enterprises include: Yaupon Brothers Tea, Visable, Front Row Charities, Playground City, Nexus Impact, and Orlando Together. Rally received applications from nonprofit and for-profit entities. The...
Thoughts on the 2020 Census
March 30 2018 • Mark Brewer, William J. Bodine and Beth Stipe
“In Orlando, Fla., the Central Florida Foundation uses census data for its most critical grant making programs, such as permanent supportive housing, affordable housing, and impact funds.”
100 Women Strong Member Spotlight: Aldis Loreno
March 30 2018
We recently had the opportunity to get to know one of 100 Women Strong’s members, Aldis Loreno. Learn more about her from our conversation below. Aldis was born in her hometown of Reykjavik, Iceland and came to the United States when she was just seven years old. She earned a...
EIGHT LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS VIE FOR $25,000 INVESTMENT DURING SOCIAL ENTERPRISE COMPETITION
Omnimodal Wins Local Accelerator’s Inaugural “Shark Tank”-Style Pitch Event
March 16 2018 • CFF Team
ORLANDO, Fla. – (March 16, 2018) – In an effort to create positive change by nurturing local social entrepreneurs, Rally: The Social Enterprise Accelerator recently awarded a $25,000 investment to Omnimodal. The company will use the funds toward its mission of making public transportation easier for everyone. Omnimodal competed with...
CENTRAL FLORIDA FOUNDATION’S “100 WOMEN STRONG” ANNOUNCES GRANT TO EARLY LEARNING COALITION OF ORANGE COUNTY
New pilot program aims to prepare kids for success at Pine Hills child care centers
March 01 2018 • CFF Team
ORLANDO, Fla. (March 1, 2018) — A new pilot program aims to meet the social and emotional needs of young children in the Pine Hills community. The pilot program is supported by 100 Women Strong, a giving circle at Central Florida Foundation that focuses on empowering the lives of women...
How a “Giving Circle” Can Transform You Into a “Philanthroactivist”
March 01 2018 • Rachel Calderon
Philanthropy comes in many shapes and sizes. In other words, there’s no one-size-fits all approach to giving — and that’s a good thing! It means that each and every one of us can support the causes we hold close to our hearts in the ways that are the most meaningful...
The 49 Fund Accepts Applicants for Second Annual Scholarship Awards
February 20 2018 • CFF Team
ORLANDO, Fla. – (February 20, 2018) – In its continuing effort to honor those lost in the Pulse tragedy, The 49 Fund at Central Florida Foundation is accepting applications for its second annual scholarship awards. The Fund will award up to 10 local LGBT students $4,900 each to help pay...
The Moment that Everything Changed
February 15 2018 • Rachel Calderon
Naomi was a young mother of two girls, ages 1 and 5, living in New York with her boyfriend. It wasn’t a healthy relationship — he was violent and abusive toward her, and there were constant fights and beatings. After one particularly bad fight, Naomi decided that enough was enough,...
Foundation Announces Launch of Brede-Wilkins Scholarship Fund
Fund to provide college scholarships to students
January 17 2018 • CFF Team
ORLANDO, Fla. — January 17, 2018 — Today Central Florida Foundation announces the establishment of the Brede-Wilkins Scholarship Fund at the Foundation. The fund is designed to support qualified individuals with financial assistance toward the cost of a higher education. Consistent with the charitable purposes of Central Florida Foundation, the...
Thoughts on the new tax law
January 04 2018 • Rachel Calderon
Lately everyone is talking about the recent changes in the new tax law and how it will affect charitable giving going forward. We’ve been following the updates closely, and have a few thoughts we wanted to share. (Hint: the sky is not falling!) To start us off, here are some...
5 Ways to go from being a donor to a philanthropist in 2018
January 02 2018 • Rachel Calderon
This editorial column was published in the January 2018 edition of The Park Press. You’ve always been a generous person. You’ve “paid it forward” at the tollbooth. You’ve donated to Toys for Tots and served soup to the homeless. You’ve even made cash donations to charities from time to time....
Central Florida Foundation Awards Grants to Nonprofits Affected by Hurricane Irma
Fund Invests in Nonprofit Relief from Storm Damages
December 21 2017 • CFF Team
ORLANDO, Fla. (December 21, 2017) – Central Florida Foundation activated its Hurricane Irma Relief Fund after the storm to help nonprofits get back to business as usual – allowing these organizations to continue their programs and serve local residents in need. Today, the Foundation announces the first round of grants...
WINTER PARK COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES GRANTS TO AREA NONPROFITS
December 21 2017 • CFF Team
ORLANDO, Fla. — December 15, 2017 — Winter Park Community Foundation, an affiliate of Central Florida Foundation, today announces the grants from its annual grant round. The projects and nonprofits to receive grants include: $10,000 to Orlando Shakespeare Theater to install a canopy over the theater’s outdoor courtyard to provide...
Round Up: Vol. 2
December 04 2017 • CFF Team
We know it’s a busy time of year, so here are a few quick updates to keep you in the loop with all that’s happening at Central Florida Foundation. Be sure to follow along on social media to get the updates in real time! Here we go… Board member and...
End the Year by Helping Others
December 01 2017 • Rachel Calderon
This editorial was featured in the December 2017 issue of The Park Press. Many of us became “accidental givers” in 2017, as we reacted to the tragedies and crises that roiled our hometown, as well as the world. This year presented us with many opportunities to be generous with our...
End of Year Timeline for 2017
November 30 2017 • CFF Team
It’s the busiest time of the year, and there are lots of demands for your time and attention. When it comes to charitable contributions, Central Florida Foundation is here to help you make it simple. Keep these important dates in mind so we can ensure your contributions qualify for a...
A few thoughts on National Philanthropy Day...
November 08 2017 • Rachel Calderon
Last week, we celebrated National Philanthropy Day to honor those individuals and nonprofits that dedicate themselves to serving others. It’s an early start to the day, but the coffee is strong, and it serves as a worthwhile time to meet new faces and reconnect with friends in the field. The...
Parents in Parramore Set their Children on the Path to Success
November 02 2017
Parents of young children who live in the Parramore Heritage Neighborhood face challenges similar to those of all young families everywhere. Some are caught by surprise and unprepared for the arrival of an infant. Many are ill equipped and have little knowledge of the skills they’ll need to cope with...
Take the First Step
November 01 2017 • Rachel Calderon
This editorial piece was featured in the November 2017 issue of The Park Press. Hurricanes Irma and Maria. The mass shooting in Las Vegas. The wildfires in California. Never has there seemed to be so much need here in Central Florida and elsewhere. It can feel overwhelming. Now, as we...
Central Florida Social Enterprise Accelerator Announces First Cohort
First-of-its kind program selects nine finalists for mentorship and resources
October 19 2017 • CFF Team
ORLANDO, Fla. – (October 19, 2017) – Central Florida Social Enterprise Accelerator today announces the nine finalists of its inaugural cohort. The nine companies include: The Mustard Seed of Central Florida, SnapGood, Outcome Funding, Omni, Hebni Nutrition Consultants, Florida Abolitionist, Fleet Farming, EcoSpears, and Big Mountain Data. The Accelerator received...
100 Women Strong Member Spotlight: Alexa Padilla
October 16 2017
We recently had the opportunity to get to know one of 100 Women Strong’s members, Alexa Padilla. Learn more about her from our conversation below. Alexa was born and raised in Winter Springs, Florida and recently returned to the area to begin her career as a personal injury attorney with...
Central Florida Foundation Identifies Nonprofits Struggling After Hurricane Irma
Assessment Reveals Critical Needs
October 11 2017 • CFF Team
ORLANDO, Fla. (Oct. 11, 2017) – As the Central Florida community moves forward after Hurricane Irma, some nonprofits are still struggling to get back to business as usual. In assessing the needs of more than 200 nonprofits across Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Lake, Volusia, Brevard and Polk counties, Central Florida Foundation...
Central Florida Foundation Activates Hurricane Recovery Fund to Support Puerto Rico
Foundation Accepting Contributions to Support Recovery Efforts on the Island
October 04 2017 • CFF Team
ORLANDO, Fla. (October 4, 2017) – In the aftermath of Hurricane Maria, Central Florida Foundation, alongside community leader Conrad Santiago of Conrad Santiago & Associates, has activated Together for Puerto Rico: A Hurricane Recovery Fund to support recovery and rebuilding efforts in Puerto Rico. The fund will support these key...
Central Florida Foundation Activates Hurricane Irma Relief Fund, Assesses Community Needs
Foundation Accepting Donations with Focus on Aiding Vulnerable Population
September 14 2017 • CFF Team
ORLANDO, Fla. (September 14, 2017) – In the wake of Hurricane Irma, Central Florida Foundation has activated its Hurricane Irma Relief Fund, which will support stabilizing and rebuilding efforts in Central Florida. Contributions to the Fund will help nonprofits get back to providing core services and programs that they are...
Action Needed: Post Hurricane Irma Assessment for Nonprofits
September 13 2017 • CFF Team
We hope that all of the nonprofits in our region made it through Hurricane Irma safely. The sun is out again, but there is much to be done as we move towards stabilizing and rebuilding in Central Florida. With that, we need your help in completing our post Hurricane Irma...
Hurricane Irma Relief and How You Can Help
September 10 2017 • CFF Staff
Central Florida Foundation has activated the Hurricane Irma Relief Fund. The fund will support longer term recovery and rebuilding efforts in Central Florida as we uncover the true effects of the storm in the days ahead. If you would like to support the Fund, you may contribute directly to the...
Hurricane Harvey Relief & How You Can Help
August 29 2017 • CFF Staff
We have all been closely watching the devastating effects of Hurricane Harvey in Houston. And, as you can imagine, the true degree of the damage will be uncovered in the days ahead. If you would like to support relief work in the Houston area following Hurricane Harvey, you may contribute...
Round-Up: Vol. 1
August 28 2017 • Mark Brewer
This is the first update in a new series of round-ups that we’ll be sharing to keep you in the loop with all that’s happening at Central Florida Foundation. Be sure to follow along on social media to get the updates in real time! Here we go… Here’s the August...
Central Florida Foundation's Better Together Fund Continues Mission of Healing for Pulse Survivors, Community
Fund Invests in Nonprofit Relief, Long Term Aid
August 16 2017 • CFF Staff
ORLANDO, Fla. (August 16, 2017) – The Better Together Fund, an initiative at Central Florida Foundation created in response to the Pulse nightclub tragedy, continues to provide support and aid to the community on its road to healing. Since launching in June 2016, the Fund has received more than $1.1...
Companies with a conscience: A Business Strategy of Social Responsibility
If you're in the luckiest 1% of humanity, you owe it to the rest of humanity to think about the other 99%." - Warren Buffet
August 11 2017 • Avani Desai
“For every product you purchase,” promises the TOMS motto, “TOMS will help a person in need.” It’s the mission statement inspired by TOMS founder Blake Mycoskie, whose heart went out to the barefoot local children he encountered during his 2006 trip to Argentina; he decided to do something proactive and...
100 Women Strong Member Spotlight: Garima Shah
August 10 2017
We recently had the opportunity to get to know one of 100 Women Strong’s members, Garima Shah. Learn more about her from our conversation below. Garima is the Chief Business Development Officer at Direct Connect LLC, headquartered in the District of Columbia area. At Direct Connect, a provider of payment...
Press Release: CENTRAL FLORIDA COMMISSION ON HOMELESSNESS AND PARTNERS LAUNCH PILOT PROGRAM TO HOUSE AND EMPLOY HOMELESS FAMILIES
“Impact Families” to address underlying issues of housing stability, employment, income
August 04 2017 • CFF Staff
ORLANDO, Fla., Aug. 4, 2017 – The Central Florida Commission on Homelessness today announces the launch of Impact Families, a pilot program intended to test and evaluate a new system of care for families who find themselves homeless in our region. The demonstration pilot will focus on increasing housing stability...
Healing our community through resilience and affirmation
July 26 2017 • Rachel Calderon
Through conversation, we quickly realized the need to deliver culturally competent, affirming services to meet the unique needs of our LGBTQ+ neighbors. This spring and summer, local mental health providers and community leaders increased their skills in doing just that.
How "Giving Back" Gets Down to Business
July 13 2017 • Rachel Calderon
This editorial was featured in the July 2017 issue of The Park Press. Ever since smart phones entered our lives just over ten years ago, the world as we knew it began to change. The phenomena of social media had begun a few years prior with the launch of Facebook,...
Central Florida Foundation Announces up to $159,115 in grants to area nonprofits
One-of-a-kind experience teaches students about investing in local nonprofits
July 10 2017 • CFF Staff
ORLANDO, Fla.,—July 10, 2017— Central Florida Foundation today announces the grants from its annual Community Investment Grant Round. The eight projects and nonprofits to receive grants include: Up to $15,777 to Holocaust Memorial Resource & Education Center of Florida as a last-in match to establish an exhibit based on the...
Am I a Philanthropist?
July 07 2017 • Leslie Hartog
This question occurred to me as I was reading an article about “Harriet Lake, 95, local philanthropist, and hat enthusiast” (and a 100 Women Strong member, although the article didn’t mention that). She was being honored for her lifelong support of the arts and her recent $2 million donation to...
100 Women Strong Member Spotlight: Catherine Losey
June 29 2017
We recently had the opportunity to get to know one of 100 Women Strong’s members, Catherine Losey. Learn more about her from our conversation below. Catherine was born and raised in Vero Beach, Florida. She moved to Orlando after attending college and law school at the University of Florida, where...
Central Florida Foundation Announces Social Enterprise Accelerator to Drive Creation of New Businesses that Solve Community Issues
First-of-its kind program will connect emerging leaders to mentors, investors, resources
June 21 2017 • CFF Staff
ORLANDO, Fla. – (June 21, 2017) –Central Florida Foundation today launched the Social Enterprise Accelerator – connecting entrepreneurs with resources, funding and mentors to help them build their ideas into self-sustainable ventures that solve pressing community issues. The first program of its kind in Central Florida, this initiative will help...
Our Social Enterprise Connect Event was a Success!
May 31 2017 • Rachel Calderon
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We had an exciting and engaging Social Enterprise Connect Event on May 24th. This event focused on social enterprise and how this growing trend in our community is changing the way nonprofit organizations and traditional endeavors do business. We would like to extend a special thank you to Orlando, Inc....
Advocate Helps Foster Youth Succeed in High School and Beyond
May 26 2017 • Rachel Calderon
For most teenagers, high school is a fun, exciting chapter of their lives. They go to prom, attend sporting events, tour colleges with family members, and prepare for the next steps after graduation. But, for youth in foster care, attending college and working toward a career can seem like a...
100 Women Strong Member Spotlight: Lauren Chianese
May 10 2017
We recently had the opportunity to get to know one of 100 Women Strong’s members, Lauren Chianese. Learn more about her from our conversation below. Lauren was born in Pittsburgh, PA but grew up in Altamonte Springs, FL. She attended college at University of Florida, joined Teach For America in...
Philanthropreneurship: The Strategic Mindset of Entrepreneurial Philanthropy
“It is more difficult to give money away intelligently than to earn it in the first place.” –Andrew Carnegie
May 08 2017 • Avani Desai
As the term itself suggests, a philanthropreneur is an entrepreneurial philanthropist: a person who fuses the active philanthropist role with business practices and resources that can be leveraged to achieve scalable, sustainable social change. Philanthropreneurs take philanthropy to a new level by pairing generosity with smart proactive actions. They’ve made...
It was a great Appreciation Event!
April 07 2017
This week we had the opportunity to get together with our nonprofit fund holders to enjoy sweets and treats and say thank you for partnering with us to sustain their organization for the years to come. We were excited to give everyone a copy of our NEW nonprofit endowment toolkit,...
Our Central Florida Homeless Issue - What Should You Do?
April 06 2017 • Meghan Warrick
In our last post about homelessness, we discussed a housing-first approach that our community has adopted to end homelessness in Central Florida. This month, Meghan Warrick, our executive vice president and chief financial officer is sharing a more personal perspective on homelessness and how as individuals we can help… Often...
100 Women Strong Member Spotlight: Jeanmarie Loria
March 28 2017
We recently had the opportunity to get to know one of 100 Women Strong’s members, Jeanmarie Loria. Learn more about her in our conversation below. While Jeanmarie might not be an Orlando native (you can definitely tell that she is a true New Yorker when you hear her speak) she...
Our Central Florida Homeless Issue
How Can You Help with a New Solution?
March 07 2017 • Rachel Calderon
This editorial was featured in the March 2017 issue of The Park Press. Central Florida is one of the most popular destinations in the world. We have beautiful weather, pristine beaches, welcoming communities, unique local businesses, sports venues, cultural attractions, endless entertainment and so much more. However, in the midst...
The Importance of Early Intervention Services
February 27 2017 • Avani Desai
“The good-news stories in medicine are early detection, early intervention.” - Dan Marino Research on child development has discovered that the rate of human learning and mental growth is most rapid during the preschool years. The timing of early intervention - entailing services for infants, toddlers, and small children with...
100 Women Strong Member Spotlight: Cheryl Courier
February 27 2017
We recently had the opportunity to get to know one of 100 Women Strong’s members, Cheryl Courier. Learn more about her in our conversation below. Cheryl was born and raised in Durban, South Africa and immigrated to the United States with her husband in 1987. She became a United States...
Planning Now to Help Students Create a Life They Are Proud to Live
February 14 2017
Edna S. Hargrett was the beloved director of the well-known Jones High School Choir. She taught school for 44 years with 33 of those years spent at Jones High School helping countless students achieve performance excellence. She made participation in the choir feel like being a part of a big, close-knit family with big open arms. Thankfully, her passion for helping students reach success lives on even after her passing.
Larry's Story: One Man's Journey Home in Central Florida
January 26 2017
If you have ever lived or worked in Downtown Orlando for any length of time, you have probably seen him. At the corner of Colonial Drive and Westmoreland Drive you could find him at self-appointed post, clad in white sheets and barefoot (as he preferred). As a well known fixture in the area, some have even called him the “John the Baptist of Westmoreland.”
100 Women Strong Member Spotlight: Rina Patel
January 23 2017
We recently had the opportunity to get to know one of 100 Women Strong’s newest members, Rina Patel. Learn more about her in our conversation below. Rina Patel works in Global IT Service Management and Operations for ACI Worldwide and is the founder of Cents of Relief, Inc. Rina and...
Central Florida Estate Planning Attorney Gives the Community Options to Leave a Legacy
January 10 2017 • Rachel Calderon
Richard T. Hurt, more commonly known as “Rick,” is one of the most respected voices for estate planning in Central Florida. In his over 35 years of practice, he has earned the respect of his clients helping them with their estate planning needs. His devotion to his clients shows through...
Giving Circles by Women: The Nation’s Increasing Number of Philanthroactivists
December 19 2016 • Avani Desai
Hundreds of years old in theory, the concept of the “giving circle” has reignited across the nation, growing more diverse, aware, popular, and effective with each passing year. Initially begun by and composed of women, the movement of the giving circle is based on the notion of participatory philanthropy, where...
100 Women Strong Member Spotlight: Stacey Panepinto
December 19 2016
We recently had the opportunity to get to know one of 100 Women Strong’s newest members, Stacey Panepinto. Learn more about her in our conversation below. Tell us about your background, family, job experiences and other charitable work. I was born and raised in Brooklyn, but have called Orlando my...
Winter Park Community Foundation announces up to $47,900 in grants to area nonprofits
December 12 2016
ORLANDO, Fla.—December 13, 2016—Winter Park Community Foundation, an affiliate of Central Florida Foundation, today announces the grants from its annual grant round. The projects and nonprofits to receive grants include: Up to $16,900 to The Center for Contemporary Dance to complete the nonprofit’s first financial audit, facility improvements and to...
We had a great time!
November 22 2016
We had so much fun at our recent Connect Event. Connect Events are simple, relaxed and informal gatherings where we connect our fund holders to issues that matter in our community. This event focused on early childhood development and how our children determine the quality of our community. We were...
Young Philanthropists: How Teaching Philanthropy Shapes the Future of Giving
November 18 2016 • Avani Desai
“What this world needs is a new kind of army—the army of the kind.” –Cleveland Amory When people think of “philanthropy,” they think of the rich setting up charities, large non-profit organizations such as UNICEF or Doctors Without Borders, and six-figure donations made by powerful families. These surely all fit...
Central Florida Foundation Announces Next Grants to Support Community Healing After Pulse Tragedy
Better Together Fund Focuses on Long-Term Community Healing
November 10 2016
After the Pulse tragedy, Orlando’s healing process continues. In support of helping to heal the local community, Central Florida Foundation recently issued the next grants from its Better Together Fund to support two initiatives.
Philanthropic Spirit: The Giving that Gives Back
"No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted." -Aesop
October 10 2016 • Avani Desai
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that giving is good for you. In case it does, however, we’ve got a few reasons to explain it—and a few ways to illuminate how this gift applies to you, too. Philanthropists throughout the world—regardless of status or wealth—report feelings of euphoria and well-being...
Meet Rick Baldwin
Local Businessman Gives Back to the Community that has been so good to him
October 04 2016
Rick Baldwin will tell you that he’s not a “philanthropy guy.” While he might not have adopted a title, he has a huge heart for the community that has been so good to him. Born and raised in Florida, he has strong roots planted here. His first job out of...
Reframing the Conversation
Women Shattering the Ceiling in Philanthropy
September 13 2016 • Avani Desai
As I’m writing these very words, a spectacular, massive cultural shift is underway. The growth of women’s wealth, power and influence is redefining philanthropy with a more pragmatic, involved and collaborative approach. According to a Growing Under the Radar report, at least 43% of American millionaires are women, the quantity...
Central Florida Foundation Announces up to $168,630 in grants to area nonprofits
September 09 2016
ORLANDO, Fla. - September 8, 2016 - Central Florida Foundation, today announces the grants from our annual Community Investment Grant Round. The eight projects and nonprofits to receive grants include: Up to $7,400 to The Arbor Schools of Central Florida to purchase iPad minis and software and apps to enhance...
Our First Connect Event was a Hit!
September 01 2016
We had a great time yesterday at our very first Connect Event. Connect Events are simple, relaxed and informal gatherings where we connect our individual and family fund holders to issues that matter in our community. Our first event was all about animals - pets, bears and more - and...
Autumn Ames and Family Give Back in a New Way
How one young family uses Central Florida Foundation to invest in their community
August 16 2016
“We like the community focus of knowing we are a part of something bigger.” Autumn and her husband knew setting up an advised fund at the Foundation instead of a charitable gift account at a traditional financial institution was the direction they wanted to go.
Central Florida Foundation Issues First Grant to Support Healing for Pulse Survivors
Better Together Fund Targets Nonprofits for Relief
August 05 2016
Central Florida Foundation recently issued the first grant from its Better Together Fund of up to $122,000 to Heart of Florida United Way.
Why Does Philanthropy Matter in a Crisis?
July 15 2016 • Rachel Calderon
It takes more than just money to build stronger communities. It takes community leaders and those who envision a stronger community to join in with helping hands.
A Message from Our President/CEO Mark Brewer - Central Florida Foundation Forms Better Together Fund
June 17 2016
As you may be aware, the City of Orlando partnered with the Central Florida Foundation to manage the distribution of donations to the OneOrlando Fund. The OneOrlando Fund was designed to benefit nonprofits that directly assist survivors through counseling and other essential services. Today, the Foundation and the City of...
How One Board Sustained a Mission and Created a Legacy: The Story of Hospice of Central Florida
May 24 2016 • Rachel Calderon
“You can accomplish so much more by working with the Central Florida Foundation,” said Arkin. “You have access to resources like Nonprofit Search, there is professional investment oversight and it’s certainly something that should be given careful consideration because it’s very financially efficient to do.”
Plan ahead to support the community you love
March 15 2016 • Rachel Calderon
At the end of 2015, the IRA charitable rollover was signed into permanent law. This is a big step in philanthropy and makes it easier for people like you to invest in your community. It’s a win-win decision for local philanthropist and planned giving advocate Elizabeth Brothers. “The IRA rollover...
Winter Park Community Foundation announces $51,500 in grants to area nonprofits
February 18 2016
ORLANDO, Fla. — February 17, 2016 — Winter Park Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Central Florida Foundation today announced the award winners from its grant round. Development of a marketing plan, social media advertising and website design at Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Garden; rebranding and website development at...
100 Women Strong announces grants for 2016
January 27 2016
ORLANDO, Fla. — JANUARY 27, 2016 — 100 Women Strong, a giving circle at Central Florida Foundation today announced its 2016 grant awards. The Education+ Pilot Program at Foundation for Foster Children and the support of data collection required to become eligible for federal funding at Impower are the two...
Stronger End of Year Giving
December 03 2015
As the end of the year approaches, you may be looking for ways to save on taxes and end the year well. Here is a checklist for some tax-wise year-end charitable gifts that can provide you with tax savings and possible income benefits: Make a gift of appreciated assets. Gifts...
Errors to Avoid in Estate Planning
November 27 2015
Everyone looks forward to the new year and its promise of new opportunities. Did you know the old year might also yield rewarding opportunities? As you look ahead, consider some year-end decisions that can make a big difference now and in the future. There are a number of pitfalls to...
5 Ways You Can Invest In Your Community with CFF
November 20 2015
As we approach Thanksgiving this week, we hope you are getting ready to enjoy the holiday. Before you’re off to enjoy food, family and friends, we want to share with you the 5 ways you can invest in your community. You can be assured that we will take care of...
Simple Steps to Save You Money
November 13 2015
As the year comes to a close, so does your ability to lower your taxes. A little planning now can save you time and money later. There are many ways you can still save on taxes this year. See our end of year checklist to see how you can plan...
A Day for the History Books
Mr. Kenneth F. Murrah, Esq. To Be Named Outstanding Philanthropist at National Philanthropy Day
November 06 2015
Friday, November 13, marks the 30th anniversary of National Philanthropy Day. At Central Florida Foundation, we are honored to present the first Kenneth F. Murrah Esq. Award for Outstanding Philanthropist. Although Mr. Murrah passed away in December 2014, his legacy will continue in Central Florida forever. In light of this...
Planned Giving Goes Hand in Hand with the Holiday Season
November 06 2015 • Mark Brewer
This article was recently published in the November/December 2015 issue of Orlando Arts Magazine. It’s that time of year again. The holidays remind us of the joy of giving, and December 31st looms as the end of the tax year. Everywhere I go people are talking about “planned giving.” So...
Grant helps youth aging out of foster care take next steps to adulthood
October 03 2015
Many young adults are fortunate. They have at least one trusted adult who would help them financially if needed, visit them in the hospital if they were injured or ill or give them a safe place to stay. They’ve had parents or relatives who taught them how to balance a...
Central Florida Foundation Names Sandi Vidal Vice President of Community Strategies and Initiatives
September 25 2015
September 25, 2015 – Orlando, Fla. - The Central Florida Foundation announced today that Sandi Vidal has been named vice president of community strategies and initiatives. In her role as part of the executive team, Vidal is responsible for implementing the vision and mission of the Central Florida Foundation through...
Meet Esperanza Perez
September 12 2015 • Rachel Calderon
In 2014, Esperanza Perez was awarded a scholarship from the Beatrice B. Ettinger Scholarship Fund at Central Florida Foundation. She graduated from the University of Central Florida Burnett Honors College this past May with a degree in Accounting and Finance. She is currently an intern at KPMG. The Beatrice B....
Young Professionals Look To The Central Florida Foundation For Giving Wisdom
August 15 2015
Avani Desai didn’t grow up in a philanthropic household. Her parents were immigrants from India and had to focus on providing for their own family and didn’t have the means to give. When they did give, it went back to their home country. Giving wasn’t part of their lifestyle at...
A Central Florida Foundation Grant Gives Students Tools to Achieve Educational Success
July 25 2015
Children with motor disabilities resulting from cerebral palsy and other conditions are getting a boost in reaching their educational goals, thanks to a $12,000 grant awarded by the Central Florida Foundation to the Conductive Education Center of Orlando (CECO). CECO used the grant to purchase 10 laptops and five desktop...
It Was a Great Morning!
July 16 2015 • Rachel Calderon
We had so much fun yesterday morning with our Nonprofit Endowment Fund Holders at our open house! Thank you to everyone that attended for taking the time from your busy schedule to share the morning with us. Our entire team was there to catch up with everyone and answer questions....
A Place for People Who Want to Invest in Their Community
July 10 2015 • Rachel Calderon
Have you ever wondered, “What does Central Florida Foundation do?” You probably know us from a specific experience you had connected to a grant, a meeting, a client, a board you serve on, word of mouth, or even your own fund. If you were asked what do we actually do,...
5 Things You Didn't Know About Central Florida Foundation
July 07 2015 • Rachel Calderon
This week we are sharing five things that you might not know about Central Florida Foundation (CFF). We are the trusted philanthropic home for our community, and we work everyday to help people who want to invest in their community. See what else you can learn about us below: You...
Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando Receives Grant for Organization-Changing Phone System and Customer Care Center
June 19 2015
Through more than 400 funds the Central Florida Foundation distributes grants that provide essential funding in areas like education, arts and culture, environment and animals, health and human services and religion. The Foundation uses its deep community knowledge to connect caring people with organizations and causes that they are passionate...
Meet Jennifer Roth Miller
June 12 2015
Earlier this spring, Jennifer Roth Miller took the Philanthropy, Fundraising, and Social Entrepreneurship master level class in the School of Public Administration at the University of Central Florida. She was able to learn about and practice grant-making first hand, including making a presentation to our board of directors. Recently we...
Creating a Legacy to Transform the Central Florida Community
June 01 2015
(Pictured: Frank Hubbard) Evans Hubbard learned about philanthropy from a young age as the son of Frank and Ruth Hubbard, who were very active in the Central Florida community since 1949. That is why to this day, it’s important to him to keep his family’s legacy ongoing through future generations....
New Year New Home Gathering
May 15 2015
We recently celebrating moving into our new home with our fund holders, board members and community partners, and we are so excited about what happened that we want to share it with you. Connecting Your Passion to Impact Our past board chairman Marty Rubin kicked things off by recognizing our...
Questions?
May 01 2015
This is the last post in our series this week about understanding how Central Floria is working to help solve the issue of homelessness in our community. We will share more details as the process evolves. Be sure to stay connected to Central Florida Foundation (CFF), Central Florida Commission on...
Where Does Your Nonprofit Fit In?
April 30 2015
Now that we are nearing the end of the blog series for this week, you might be wondering where your nonprofit fits in with these changes. Here are a few guidelines: Your organization’s Nonprofit Search portrait will be an important resource. Maintain a Reviewed portrait so that your organization’s work...
Winds Are Changing
April 29 2015
Today’s post in the series is about how the environment is changing in regards to solving homelessness in Central Florida. So much great work happens in our community every day that we learn through conversations, Nonprofit Search, social media, events and more. What if we could take it a step...
Who's Who?
April 28 2015
Continuing from yesterday’s post about the goals of our community around solving homelessness, today’s post is about the roles of Central Florida Foundation, Central Florida Commission on Homelessness and Corporation for Supportive Housing. The issue of homelessness is not just the responsibility of one organization or one sector, but it’s...
Paint the Big Picture
April 27 2015
This week we are sharing with you a series of five short blog posts to help you better understand how our community is working to solve the issue of homelessness. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for links to the series and feel free to leave comments and share the...
