2014: A Big Year for Community Foundations Everywhere Posted on September 29, 2014 by support One hundred years ago, in 1914, the first community foundation was established in the Midwest, giving rise to a new philanthropy, a new way of participating in community, and a new vision for the future. Today, the Eau Claire Community Foundation is one of more than 700 community foundations in the United States, collectively managing more than $48 billion in assets and making grants of approximately $4.5 billion a year to improve life in their communities. There are more than 1,700 community foundations worldwide. Since we were established in 1997, the Eau Claire Community Foundation has made grants of more than $3.1 million to address pressing needs and important local causes through the generous gifts of our donors. Please see the Lasting Impact section of this website for more information about Eau Claire Community Foundation grants and the nonprofits who have received them. Thank you for your interest in our Foundation. We’re proud to be part of this vibrant field of community philanthropy—100 years and growing!