The Bucks County Foundation (BCF) was founded in 1979 as a community trust with a mission of promoting permanent philanthropy. Their purpose is to give individuals the opportunity to make lasting, flexible gifts to meet the needs of Bucks County residents and to assist the County’s charitable organizations, through grant making, scholarships and endowments.
In its 33-year history, BCF has given more than $2 million in scholarships, grants, and other support. The simplest way to create a fund is through a bequest in their will or estate plan, but many donors choose to establish funds during their lifetimes, for which they receive maximum tax advantages. Donors can establish a fund at the Foundation for many purposes – for college scholarships, to support their specific interests (education, animal welfare, cultural institutions, etc), to establish or contribute to an organization’s endowment, or to help where the need is greatest.
The Foundation awards more than 200 scholarships every year, to graduates of many of the county’s high schools who will be attending colleges all around the country. Many of these scholarships come through memorial funds with specific requirements – details are available on the Foundation’s Web site, www.buckscountyfoundation.org.
Twice a year, in March and September, BCF awards grants to non-profit agencies that serve the residents of Bucks County. Over 40 organizations have received funds, including museums, social service agencies, day care centers, animal rescue operations, educational programs, hospitals and clinics, and cultural agencies. The application process is detailed on the Web site, and is open to all non-profits who have a 501(c)3 legal status at the time of their application.
Periodically the Foundation may make pro-active gifts to meet emergency needs in the county. As a public charity under the law, all donations to the Bucks County Foundation are tax-deductible.
Now with 31 separate funds the Foundation is expanding as it serves the local community and assists those donors who choose to make a permanent investment in the future. Information is available at the Web site www.buckscountyfoundation.org or by calling the Foundation office at 215-997-8566.
