What is a Community Initiative?

A community initiative can be an individual or network of individuals dedicated to improving the health and welfare of a community. You're probably thinking that many different charitable projects could fit this definition - and you're right! 

The possibilities are endless. The Paso del Norte Community Foundation has worked with dozens of community initiatives over the years and would love to help you get your initiative off to a successful start. 

Success Stories

The Paso del Norte Community Foundation has worked with and continues to work with individuals and groups to establish their community initiatives and make the impact envisioned.  

Bowie Jardín, Cocina & Mercado Fund

The Paso del Norte Community Foundation worked closely with the leadership and volunteers of the Bowie Jardín, Cocina & Mercado Fund to raise funds to purchase a food truck.  The new OSO Good Food Truck is part of the Bowie Jardín & Mercado Fund’s plan to establish a social venture that teaches students how to plant and cultivate fresh food, cook and prepare nutritious meals and manage an entrepreneurial business.  Proceeds from the food truck support scholarships for deserving Bowie High School graduates.  

View Fund Page

El Jardin Birth & Family Resource Center

El Jardin is a community-based organization that seeks to provide support, education and a welcoming space to grow families in El Paso. Their mission is to nurture a regional future through education and advocacy that supports, cares for and empowers women during the critical transition of birth and parenthood. They are an unincorporated organization that, as an established fund of the Paso del Norte Community Foundation, enjoys a nonprofit designation as well as the administrative and accounting support they need to grow and thrive.

Moms on Board

In 2017, Moms on Board (now MOB since men have joined the group) was established to advocate for accommodations that cater to families and to promote family-friendly environments at businesses and facilities in the El Paso region. With more than 5,000 Facebook members, MOB is motivated to build on and enhance efforts to help El Paso families have more things to do and places to visit within the region. Working with the Paso del Norte Community Foundation, MOB is spearheading the creation of an all-inclusive park that will include activities for kids of all abilities, inducing sensory tunnels, a demonstration garden, train rides and more. 

View Fund Page

Benefits of a Community Initiative Fund

We're Your Fiscal Sponsor

We can offer our legal and tax-exempt status for your initiative.

Tax Benefits

We provide tax write offs for your donors to encourage your startup's growth.

Flexibility in Accepting Gifts

PDNCF makes it easy for your initiative to accept a variety of different gifts from cash to tangible assets and even planned gifts.

Accept Online Donations

We set up an online donation page so your donors can make quick and easy donations and know they'll get their tax benefit.

No Credit Card Fees

When you receive a donation of any amount via credit card you keep the full donation, and we take care of the fees.

Experienced Support

PDNCF has worked with a large network of community initiatives and nonprofits. When you partner with us you're never left wondering if you're doing what's best for your cause.

What Gifts Can My Fund Receive?

Cash

We setup a fund page on our website where your friends and family can donate through cash, checks, or credit cards.

Non-Cash

Tangible personal property. Examples may be real estate, oil, gas, or mineral interests.

Planned Gifts

Bequests, appreciated securities, life insurance, retirement plans, and charitable remainder trusts, and more.

What are the fees?

Initial Donation
A Gift of $25,000
Ongoing Support Fees
Up to $1 million
0.85%
The Next $1 - $5 million

Why Paso del Norte Community Foundation?

The Paso del Norte Community Foundation is committed to helping you fulfill your vision. Our individualized service allows us to work with you one-on-one and guide you every step of the way. Community initiatives often become impactful nonprofits that serve communities for years. If you have an idea for a community initiative but don't know how to get started, we can help.

High transparency & Accountability

Reports and easy communication keep you confident that your fund is fulfilling its purpose.

Experience with Community Initiatives

PDNCF's network of initiative partnerships ensures you're going to get the support and knowledge base to make your project a success.

Stepping Ladder to Nonprofit Status

If your community initiative grows, PDNCF can advise you into transitioning into a full nonprofit.

Ready to get Started?

Mica Short

Vice President of Development

Mica Short has experience in the local nonprofit and philanthropic space. She can be a resource to you as you consider making a lasting impact through a charitable giving fund.

915.218.2641
mshort@pdnfoundation.org

Schedule a Conversation