Welcome to the Community Foundation of the Northern Shenandoah Valley. We are one of more than 800 similar tax-exempt public charities throughout the United States that work to make our communities better places to live and work. We are a local organization managed by residents of the community who have in-depth knowledge as to needs and causes. And we are led by a board of directors who have a vested interest – both for now – and in our future.
The Community Foundation was created by, and for, the people of the City of Winchester, and the Counties of Clarke, Frederick and Warren in 2001. We exist to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, streamlining annual giving, strengthening nonprofits, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.
The Community Foundation of the Northern Shenandoah Valley… looking forward – by giving back.
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News
Executive Director
Effective October 23, 2023, Nancy Silva has decided to step down from her position as Executive Director of Community Foundation of Northern Shenandoah Valley (CFNSV). Richard Kennedy will step in as Interim Executive Director until a permanent Executive Director is...
Do good, feel better: Philanthropy through the lens of well-being
Philanthropy means “love of humanity”—and, according to some, “philanthropy” includes acts that benefit both the giver and the receiver. This is surprising to some people who have been taught “it’s better to give than to receive.” Somehow we have popularized the...
Fourth quarter jitters: Charitable giving tips to reduce your stress
You are not alone if you begin to feel a little anxious when October rolls around. Many people experience year-end stress, whether because of looming deadlines at work, tax-related estate planning cut-off dates, anticipating a busy holiday season of travel and social...
Retirement strategies: Tax benefits and beyond
At the community foundation, we regularly talk with retirement-age donors and fund holders about the tax benefits of Qualified Charitable Distributions and leaving bequests of IRAs to a donor-advised fund at the community foundation. But getting involved in...
Community need spotlight: Food insecurity
Though natural disasters and the resulting humanitarian needs are frequent but sporadic, the need for food in our community is an everyday constant. And with school back in session, the needs among the food insecure and food banks—often met through philanthropic...
Rethinking inherited IRAs
As you build your estate plan and consider how to provide for your adult children, keep in mind that naming children as the beneficiary of an IRA or other qualified plan probably is not something that should be automatic. For starters, if you are charitably-minded and...
CFNSV now has a
Guidestar Platinum Seal!