How is a Community Foundation unique from other public charities?

Most public charities deliver direct services to meet specific community needs—whether through programs, outreach, or care. These are the organizations people typically think of when they hear “nonprofit.” Donor gifts to these charities usually support a particular service or mission.

The Mankato Area Foundation, while also a public charity, is a grantmaker—not a direct service provider. Rather than focusing on a single issue, we support a wide range of community needs by funding the work of others, fostering collaboration, and connecting people, ideas, and resources to amplify the efforts of those making a difference.