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Community Leadership
In order to further the mission of making Decatur County a better place to live, the DCCF actively takes a leadership role in many community activities. Traditionally this is done: by allowing donors an opportunity to further their charitable wishes; by making grants to meet community needs; and by providing scholarship opportunities. Part of being a community leader is stepping outside the box and finding new ways to support the community and encourage philanthropic efforts.
Supporting Our Local Non-Profits
The DCCF understands the importance of continuing training for our local non-profits. We understand that often times that training is expensive and usually involves a day out of the office to travel to the training location. The DCCF has brought governance, finance, grants, marketing and other valuable training to Decatur County at a low cost to the non-profit.
Educational Programs:
Recognizing that attaining post-secondary education is sometimes difficult because of the affordability, the Foundation brought in The National Center for College Costs to help explain how post-secondary education can be affordable. Parents are asked to complete a College Cost Estimator form which will then tell them what their family might be expected to contribute for their child’s education. Representatives spend an evening with the families explaining what the report tells them and how to make more affordable decisions. The families then have access to free help regarding financial questions throughout the time any of their children are in post-secondary schools.
When the reality of college costs sets in for seniors and their families, it becomes important to access all money available. Students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. The DCCF hosts FAFSA days at local high schools, where professionals from the National Center for College Costs help students and their parents complete and analyze the form.
Professional Advisor Training:
The Decatur County Community Foundation maintains a working relationship with the accountants, lawyers and bankers of the community. Part of maintaining this relationship is through training opportunities. The Foundation provides educational material and brings in training opportunities regularly.
Build Community Programs:
By looking at areas of need and potential growth, the DCCF makes choices to participate in a variety of programs, including ones directed at the agricultural community or women.
The DCCF convenes local leaders on programs whenever necessary. As a neutral voice, the DCCF understands that it can be a good source for opening community conversation.
National Center for College Costs
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