CACF: An Investment in the Future of Our Community
The Charlottesville Area Community Foundation is a permanent endowment dedicated to improving the quality of life for the people of Charlottesville, Albemarle County, and the counties of Greene, Orange, Louisa, Fluvanna, Buckingham, and Nelson. CACF is unique among local charities because through it, individuals, organizations, and businesses can make contributions for the long-term benefit of the community.

The Foundation was created in 1967 as a public charity dedicated to meeting changing human needs and assisting donors in the Charlottesville area. Gifts to the Foundation are invested and build over time, and the income and a portion of the long-term appreciation are used to make grants to qualified charitable organizations serving the area. Categories of support include human services, education, the arts and humanities, the environment, and healthcare. (See Grantmaking Guidelines) The Foundation also serves nonprofit community organizations by administering their endowments for current and future needs.

The Foundation is governed by a volunteer Governing Board of civic leaders selected for their commitment to the community. In addition, several committees provide support and guidance on specific areas of the Foundation's work.