BUILDING A STRONGER EASTERN SHORE THROUGH GIVING

SINCE 1984, THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF THE EASTERN SHORE HAS TURNED LOCAL GENEROSITY INTO MORE THAN $132 MILLION FOR AREA CAUSES. THIS SEASON, THERE’S A PLACE FOR EVERY GIFT, BIG OR SMALL.

As this season of family, universal kindness, and giving approaches, it’s an ideal chance and time to reflect on what makes the Lower Eastern Shore such a special place to call home.

Since 1984, the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore (CFES) has served as a trusted partner and expert in local philanthropy, connecting generous individuals, families, and businesses with the year-round causes that matter most.

Nowhere is that more evident than in CFES’s most recent Community Needs grant cycle, which awarded a record $346,263 to 47 local nonprofits working to impact critical needs such as housing stability, food security, healthcare, youth development, and the health and wellness of the environment.

With more than $132 million in grants and scholarships awarded since its founding, CFES continues to demonstrate how charitable giving strengthens communities and creates opportunities for future generations.

“The generosity of our community is truly extraordinary,” said CFES President Erica Joseph. “Every gift entrusted to us represents a belief in the future of the Lower Shore and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of our neighbors.”

Stewardship and Trust

Perhaps nothing is more important to any donor than trust.

“The Community Foundation has proven to be a viable and trustworthy organization with a very effective and involved board that closely monitors not only our funds but each of the more than 900 funds they manage,” added Susan Robinson, who along with husband, Tom, have been long-time donors and supporters. “We feel very comfortable knowing our gifts will always do what we intended, now and once we’re gone.”

For forty-six years, CFES has served the Robinsons and thousands of others as a proven steward of charitable gifts, managing donations responsibly and ensuring they are directed toward the causes and community needs donors care about most.

Let’s Get Started

Food pantries, after-school programs, healthcare, arts and culture, historic preservation, animal welfare…if you care about something, there is a nonprofit in your community that can use your support. The team at the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore makes that easy to do.

A wonderful example is the Richard A. Henson Family YMCA’s new “Pedaling for Parkinsons” program in Salisbury, an evidence-based stationary bike fitness class.

“We know that exercise is medicine, making a positive impact on both the physical and mental health of our participant athletes,” said Wendy Palmer, Health Interventions Director for the YMCA of the Chesapeake.

The dream belongs to the Y, but putting power to the pedals can be traced back to a $5,000 CFES grant that came directly from the community.

“Everything starts with one small seed. The Community Foundation grant helped us to plant that seed, and this program is already changing lives,” added Palmer.

Are You Next?

The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore team has spoken with thousands of donors in their more than four decades of existence. These are people just like you who represent funds reflecting every financial level and hundreds of community purposes.

Although each of their stories is different and their journeys unique, the common tie that binds them is a belief that they are obliged to make lasting change; to ensure that others tomorrow will have even greater opportunities than those here today.

It’s a philanthropic philosophy and promise that is often passed down through generations, and it all starts somewhere with a simple seed and a dream.

“Through the Community Foundation, donors can turn that generosity into meaningful impact, helping address today’s needs while investing in a stronger, more prosperous community for tomorrow,” said Joseph. “The holiday season is a great time to start.” CS

EASY WAYS TO GIVE BACK

Fund for the Lower Shore

Help create a permanent, flexible source of support exclusively for the needs and challenges on the Lower Shore. Give online at CFES.org.

Shore Gives 365

Explore local nonprofits by cause or location and make one-time or recurring gifts at ShoreGives365.org.

Planned Giving

Partner with CFES and your professional advisors to give through bequests, retirement plans, charitable trusts, or life insurance.

Donor Advised Funds

Work with CFES to create a customized endowment fund. This hands-on approach to giving helps donors support causes when and where it's convenient for them.