We make it easy to be a philanthropist!

The concept of the community foundation is simple but practical. It provides a vehicle to build, over time, substantial endowed funds through contributions both large and small and put them to work in this area.

The Foundation's assets are made up of many separate endowments called "funds". Each fund is established with a simple agreement between the donor and the Foundation. Although funds are usually pooled for investment purposes, each retains its separate identity for financial accountability and grantmaking purposes.

Such a "community" foundation enjoys economies of scale, offering the affluent and modest donor alike the professional administration of a major institution.  

History and Mission

Created in 1981, the Lubbock Area Foundation is the community foundation for the South Plains area. Its primary purpose is to attract and build permanent endowments that benefit this region. The Foundation works to enhance philanthropy and strengthen the sense of community in the Lubbock area.

The Foundation is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors who are selected by nine sponsoring organizations: City of Lubbock, Lubbock County Commissioners, Lubbock Bar Association, United Way of Lubbock, Lubbock Independent School District, South Plains Trust & Estate Council, Junior League of Lubbock, Lubbock Bankers Association and the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce. Board members serve three-year terms, renewable for a second term. Over the years, many exceptional community leaders have served on the Board and helped it grow in size and service to Lubbock.

The Foundation is an instrument for philanthropy. Donors do not so much give TO the Foundation as THROUGH it. Donors can support the broadest array of philanthropic organizations and causes through the Foundation, using a wide variety of assets. Permanent endowments can be established for as little as $5000.

• We help donors establish philanthropic funds to perpetuate their values.
• We build endowments that will grow and benefit this area forever.
• We help donors create personal charitable legacies.
• We provide a way to fulfill multiple charitable interests with one gift.
• We can accept a wide variety of assets.
• We ensure that the donor’s charitable intent will be honored.
  

The Foundation provides opportunities for donors to achieve their varied philanthropic goals, invest contributed funds prudently, and serves as a responsible steward for the charitable gifts of individuals, families and organizations.

Through our grant making program we are able to provide area non-profits with much needed assistance for programs and operations. Foundation initiatives such as Fallen Heroes, Mini-Grants for Teachers, Young Leaders Society and Community Endowment Challenge bring many donors together to address community needs.   Our endowed scholarships provide assistance to a diverse student population.

The Lubbock Area Foundation houses the Funding Information Library, a Foundation Center Cooperating Collection. This free, non-circulating library offers resources to the area grantseekers on private and corporate foundations.