Dedicated to the conservation and care of Merced County.

Community support leads to community change.

The Community Foundation of Merced County serves as the philanthropic hub of Merced County, leveraging local philanthropy to grant over $3 million. Our grants support local solutions and build community strength throughout Merced County.

Community Investment Strategies

CFMC has identified these four strategies to support organizations and efforts that make our community stronger, healthier, and more resilient. Click on each strategy below to learn more.

Education and Scholarships

equitable access to healthcare

poverty mitigation

Community development

PARTNER SPOTLIGHT Community Development

Silkroad Ensemble

Silkroad is a cultural collaboration model to exchange ideas, tradition, and innovation. CFMC partnered with UC Merced, Merced Symphony, and Amtrak San Joaquins to host a three-day residency with world-class musicians and local historians. Learn More

In 2024, CFMC added staff and grew our capacity.

$523k

funds
distributed

235%

increase
in revenue

32%

increase in
funds awarded

16%

increase
in AUM

Check out our latest.

And follow us on Instagram for more!

Welcome back, @m._.angelica._.g!

We are thrilled to have Angelica back with us as they continue their journey of learning, growing, and contributing to the Community Foundation of Merced through the @ucmcollegecorps program. A senior graduating in

Happy Birthday, Kamal! 🎉 We're so grateful to have you as a part of our board. Your fresh perspective and enthusiasm are invaluable to our mission. Wishing you a fantastic year filled with success and joy! 🎂💖

#happybirthday #cfmc #communityfounda

Community Foundations make it easy for people to give back and see the impact of their generosity right where they live.

Foundations collect donations, invest funds, make grants, and strengthen the community that they serve.

#cfmc #communityfound

We are often asked, "What is a community foundation?"

In the early 20th century, a Cleveland banker created the first community foundation, which would be directed by community leaders and meet the evolving needs of the local area. Today,

CFMC is proud to have been one of the many donors in this historic community project that not only preserves the past but also creates community pride. Laura's Fountain in Applegate Park was in need of a complete renovation as time had taken its toll

Today, we take a moment to honor the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of our veterans. Thank you to all who have served and those who continue to serve.

Happy Veterans Day!

#cfmc #communityfoundation #communityfirst #mercedcounty #VeteransDay #

🎉 Happy Birthday to @razzaribillie 🎉

Thank you for everything you do to support @cfmcmercedcounty and our mission. Wishing you a year filled with joy, health, and all the wonderful things you deserve!

#happybirthday #cfmc #communityfoundation #

Today we celebrate Dia de los Muertos, a beautiful tradition that honors the memories of those who have passed. Whether you create an ofrenda (altar) at home, gather with family and friends, or simply take a moment to remember, let's celebrate the li

Take our survey!

CFMC needs your help! Completing this brief survey will provide critical data for grant writing, scholarships and technical assistance that will directly help nonprofits, small businesses, and faith-based organizations in Merced County. This survey can be completed by anyone in your agency who is familiar with details regarding staffing, finances, volunteers, and programmatic activities.

Survey part 1

15 questions asking for basic information about your organization.

Take part 2

25 questions that will help CFMC identify specific issues impacting our county, so that we better understand where to provide resources.

“Hope just means another world might be possible, not promised, not guaranteed. Hope calls for action; action is impossible without hope.” / Rebecca Solnit

GIVE

Invest in the future of Merced County through our Endowment, Donor Advised Funds, Scholarship Fund, or Special Initiatives.

LEARN MORE

APPLY

We offer grants to nonprofits serving Merced County. We also offer scholarships to Merced County students for higher education.