Charleston Area Charitable Foundation

OVERVIEW: The Charleston Area Charitable Foundation supports community development, the arts, education and services for children and youth in the Charleston area of Illinois.

IP TAKE: Although this funder does not have a website with helpful information, it is an accessible community foundation that accepts unsolicited funding requests multiple times per year.

PROFILE: Established in 1985, the Charleston Area Charitable Foundation (CACF) is a community foundation based in Charleston, Illinois. The Blanche Linder Trust, Mary Linder Trust and Lewis Linder Trust are major donors for the foundation. It funds local efforts for community development, the arts, education and services for children and youth.

The Charleston Area Charitable Foundation does not have a website to guide grantseekers. However, past giving and tax filings indicate that CACF regularly awards operating funds, building funds, annual campaign funds and educational scholarships. Other grants have gone towards technology upgrades, trail upgrades and equipment needs. Recent giving has gone towards day care programs, historic preservation efforts, civic needs, community development efforts and programs that address the needs of local children and youth. 

Grants range between about $1,000 and $200,000. Grantmaking is typically less than $1 million per year. Grantmaking focuses on the city of Charleston and Coles County, Illinois. Past local grantees include the EIU Symphony Orchestra, Coles County Barbershoppers and the Coles County Historical Society. Learn more about this funder’s local giving by examining its recent tax records.

This foundation accepts unsolicited grant applications from nonprofits. Grantseekers can submit a written request by mail explaining the need and purpose of funds by the 15th of the month preceding CACF meetings, which occur in August, November, February and May. Direct general questions to the staff at 217-345-2128.

PEOPLE:

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CONTACT:

Charleston Area Charitable Foundation

6029 Park Dr. PO Box 677

Charleston, IL 61920

(217) 345-2128