In 2009, the Community Foundation joined other Kentucky-based philanthropic organizations to inform legislative leaders about the importance of philanthropy in the Commonwealth. Backed by the Kentucky Philanthropic Initiative's Transfer of Wealth Study, it was clear that a large intergenerational transfer of wealth was happening in Kentucky. This was a great opportunity to build permanent endowments to support community needs.

As a result of this effort, the Endow Kentucky Commission was created in order to increase philanthropic activity across the Commonwealth. Promoting community endowment funds through challenge- and capacity-building activities, as well as tax credits, the Commission endeavors to build Kentucky's philanthropic base.

Governor Steve Beshear appointed the following individuals to serve as members of the Endow Kentucky Commission:

As part of this initiative, the General Assembly authorized $1 million in tax credits (for years 2011 and 2012) for endowment gifts to permanent endowment funds of qualified community foundations certified by the commission.

You can create a fund through the Endow Kentucky Tax Credit, or make a gift of any amount to existing qualified endowment fund. Learn more >>

Contact the Foundation's Gift Planning Team for more information.