Every story begins with an idea.
CFMC’s story.
In 2003, a group of Community Leaders began having conversations about the positive impact a Community Foundation could have in Merced County. Soon after the Community Foundation of Merced County (CFMC) was formed.
Our founders sought technical assistance from the League of California Foundations; partnering with other community foundations to develop our policies and procedures and to identify funding priorities. CFMC is a participant in the Growing Community Foundation Circle hosted by the League of California Community Foundations.
CFMC philanthropic activities have a county-wide impact in the following areas: Scholarships, Community Development, Human Services, Agriculture & Environment, and Education & Healthcare. The Foundation has leveraged its $2 million endowment to grant over $3 million in grant and scholarship funding to benefit residents and non-profits throughout Merced.
During COVID, our volunteer Board responded to organizational and community needs by allocating funds for paid staff and consultants. We completed an audit of our systems, impact, and processes and have implemented a new data management platform that will enhance CFMC’s capacity to capture the impact of our giving
Past Grantees
Find a complete list of our past grantees here.
CFMC’s Giving History / 2015-2023
CFMC has a broad impact, with giving in Health Care, Education, Agriculture & Environment, Human Services, and Community Development, as well as a robust Scholarship fund.
The Community Foundation of Merced County addresses the needs of all Merced County residents