Centre Foundation

The Centre Foundation was created in 1981 as a public charity dedicated to meeting changing needs and assisting donors throughout Centre County. The Foundation is a collection of philanthropic funds, each created by a different donor at a different time for a different purpose. Each fund retains its own identity, donor-defined objectives, and benefits from pooled investments with other funds. Gifts to the Foundation are invested according to our investment policy and grants are then made from these funds to qualified local charitable organizations.

The Centre Foundation helps individuals, families, and businesses pursue their charitable interests conveniently, effectively, and with maximum tax benefits. Donors may create funds during their lifetimes, by a bequest, or by other deferred giving opportunities. The Foundation can also help companies administer their contributions and manage endowments for charitable agencies.

Funds may be established for a particular purpose or left undesignated so the Foundation’s Board can direct funds to needs of highest priority. Through its discretionary grants, the Foundation supports not-for-profit organizations in Centre County – in the arts, education, the environment, and health and social services – and chooses those projects that best meet our community’s needs. For funds that are advised or designated by donors, we offer expertise and administrative assistance to ensure that each grant is best fulfilling the donor’s charitable intent.