Since this program has been growing so quickly, let's review some of the powerful stories we were able to capture throughout the year. I hope these will inspire you to continue to push your fund forward into 2019.

For a historical look at SMIF’s Affiliate Fund program, check out this story from our most recent annual report featuring the Preston Area Community Foundation and the Christianson Family Fund.

Planned giving took off this past year as well. Spring Valley Area Community Foundation was fortunate enough to learn about a gift they can expect in the future. Harmony Area Community Foundation received a gift that will change their community forever. How are you marketing planned giving in your community?

Asset mapping also played a big role for a couple of SMIF’s newer foundations. This process brings the community together to look at your current assets and helps you connect the dots to leverage existing assets to make change.  Here is a link to the invitation for the event in Alden. Since then, the Alden Area Community Foundation has supported restoring the local shoreline of their town lake. The list of assets has also prompted further thoughts on additional board members and hidden talents in the community. Also check out Montgomery Community Foundation’s Facebook page to get updated on the results of their session hosted at the end of October!

Now that we are inspired by all our accomplishments, please make sure to set goals for 2019 during your next meeting. Please have the goals submitted by January 31 2019. If you need help, feel free to reach out!

Did you know:

This is why it is so important to have a year-end fundraising plan. It can be simple. Send out a letter and follow up with an email about the great work your organization does. Make sure to have a follow up plan. Let the donor know they are needed and will make a difference by supporting your organization. If you’d like more year-end fundraising tips feel free to reach out!

Many of you have had questions about the new tax laws and how that will change charitable giving. We are learning more each day and this article gives an overview that is not too complex. Consider sharing this information with your donors! Remember SMIF can help your donors set up a donor advised fund so they can bunch a couple years worth of charitable giving into one year in order to qualify for a charitable deduction.

Another great year in the books! Congratulations to all those who participated in this year’s Give to the Max Day. SMIF community foundations raised over $55,000 in 24 hours! If you’d like more details on how foundations have made this day a success every year feel free to reach out for more details.

Fiscal Year 19 Matches

Endowment Match for community foundations with endowments under $100,000: $18,000 remaining

Major Gift Match for community foundations with endowments over $100,000

Penny Match : $2,800 remaining 

Did you know SMIF is a donor supported organization? We can offer these matches and support your fund with technical and administrative assistance because donors see the value in the services we provide to our communities. In fact, each community foundation receives at least $5,000 in services each year. We believe in equipping and empowering communities to make change at home. If you share this passion as well, I hope you will consider making a personal contribution to SMIF to help us continue this essential program focused on keeping our communities vital.

Seeking nominations for SMIF's Board of Trustees

We are currently seeking nominations for our  Board of Trustees . Two to three new trustees will be elected to begin their first term July 1, 2019 - June 30, 2021. Applications are due  December 14 .

FEAST! Local Foods Marketplace

December 1

Mayo Civic Center, Rochester

Sip, sample and stock up on locally-made foods from Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa.