This month, we are thrilled to recognize the Watertown Area Community Foundation (WACF) as our Agency of the Month at Codington Connects. Since its inception, the WACF has been a cornerstone of philanthropy and community investment in the Watertown area, embodying the spirit of giving and progress that we deeply value.
Established in 1979, the Watertown Area Community Foundation proudly holds the distinction of being the first community foundation in South Dakota and one of the pioneering foundations in the Midwest. As the Foundation celebrates its 45th anniversary in 2024, it reflects on a rich history of looking forward and giving back. This remarkable legacy is not just about celebrating the past but also about shaping a vibrant future for the Watertown area.
The WACF’s mission is to invest in the vitality of the Watertown area by promoting philanthropy and managing charitable gifts. They achieve this through making strategic grants to and collaborating with local nonprofits, schools, and community leaders. This proactive approach allows the Foundation to address the evolving needs of the community, often taking the lead in supporting new and emerging initiatives.
One surprising aspect of the WACF’s service is its unmatched expertise in understanding and addressing local issues. The Foundation stays ahead of community needs by working closely with nonprofits and other stakeholders to identify and tackle future challenges. Their role as a key supporter and early advocate for community initiatives underscores their commitment to long-term, impactful change.
The WACF’s dedication to enhancing the community is evident in its recent achievements. In 2023 alone, the Foundation awarded over $1 million in grants and scholarships to local nonprofits and students. Since its founding, the WACF has supported 100 nonprofits and contributed nearly $12 million to the community. Visionary leaders and generous donors who believe in the power of local philanthropy make this significant impact possible.
The Watertown Area Community Foundation values the resources available through Codington Connects and encourages everyone in the community to explore what it offers. The centralized list of resources, available in both English and Spanish, is a valuable tool for staying informed and helping neighbors in need. The WACF highlights the importance of being aware of these resources, even if one does not need them personally.
The work of the Watertown Area Community Foundation is both rewarding and essential. By investing in the community’s future and supporting a diverse range of initiatives, the WACF exemplifies what it means to be a leader in community development. Their dedication to philanthropy and community support is truly inspiring.
Congratulations to the Watertown Area Community Foundation for being our Agency of the Month! Your impactful work and commitment to enhancing the Watertown area are invaluable. Thank you for your ongoing contributions to making our community a better place for all.