We Build Funds for the Future
Whether you’re an individual looking to create a fund to support the organizations or causes you value, a nonprofit wanting to build an endowment to provide financial stability, or someone who wants to leave a legacy of change, MCF can use its deep knowledge of the community and philanthropy to help you create lasting impact. Our endowment funds are permanent sources of support for the things you value.
Madison Gives 2026
Join us Tuesday, May 12th at Monona Terrace for an evening celebrating philanthropy and impact in the Greater Madison community. Learn more about the event and reserve your seat today!
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Latest News
6 Reason to Start a Donor Advised Fund
One of the most effective tools Madison Community Foundation offers for charitable giving is the donor advised fund. See our 6 reasons why starting a donor advised fund may be the right fit for you.
Opening the Door Wider
MCF has made changes to our Field of Interest grantmaking program process. These changes will help our grantmaking better reflect our commitment to equity and transparency.
USPS Postmark Changes Could Affect Timing of Year-End Gift Recognition
Recent clarification from the U.S. Postal Service about postmarks could affect the timing of year-end gift recognition for people who mail checks.
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Helping You Meet Your Philanthropic Goals
Maximize your impact
A tax-smart donor advised fund can help you achieve your giving goals.
Leave a lasting
legacy
Planned giving is easy & can have a meaningful impact for generations to come.
Strengthen the Madison Area
Help support Madison’s nonprofits with a Community Impact Fund.
Strengthen Your Nonprofit
Build an endowment fund for your nonprofit for a sustained source of income.
Learn About Grant Opportunities
Discover the programs and timelines for competitive grant funding at MCF
In addition to our Community Impact grant program, MCF works with several organizations to help them distribute their own competitive grants.
Advisors: Help Your Clients Give
Madison Community Foundation works with you to meet your clients’ charitable and financial planning goals. Tap into our deep understanding of tax planning and charitable giving to help them structure a plan that will maximize their impact and tax benefits.
Stories of Impact
Powered by Community Generosity
ART House 360 and Clean Lakes Alliance are two of the nonprofits that were awarded grants from MCF’s Community Impact fund in 2026. Although they work in very different areas, these organizations highlight the power of community-driven philanthropy in action.
A Deep and Abiding Connection to Madison
Although Dan Mansoor and his sister Yardena are no longer residents of Madison, they still support the city they grew up in through their fund at MCF. Dan treasures his childhood in Madison and his ties to the community continue to make a difference here.
Leaving a Legacy for Journalism
Barbara Johnson understands the power and importance of local journalism. Seeking to protect local journalism across Wisconsin, Barbara has set up a legacy fund with MCF to support Wisconsin Watch.
One Man’s Vision Sparks a Life-Changing Program
Professor Roberto García Sánchez established the Roberto G. Sánchez Educational Opportunity Fund with Madison Community Foundation after his retirement to help other fully bilingual first-generation students replicate his successful trajectory from community college to four-year university. From this fund, the Sánchez Scholars program was born and has been supporting students in Madison for the last 25 years
