IMPORTANT UPDATE: Our community response to COVID-19

We are actively monitoring fast-moving developments of the global coronavirus/COVID-19 outbreak.

We are here for you.

We wish we could predict what tomorrow will bring. We cannot. But what we can do is promise that we stand willing and able to work with generous people like you to ensure that Macon County citizens have the support they need in the days and weeks ahead.

Currently, our office staff are working remotely. And thanks to technology and flexibility, we will continue to conduct business and be available to serve you.

Below we’ve answered a few anticipated questions on the steps we’re taking to address the impact the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) may have on Foundation operations.

What is happening with CFMC grantmaking?

CFMC grantmaking continues uninterrupted. Our donor portal is available 24/7 for online grant making and our staff can immediately be reached via email. Monthly grants are being processed on schedule. We are continuing to process contributions and grant recommendations as quickly as possible.

What if I have questions?

We are closely monitoring the rapid developments of this outbreak, which represent challenges on several fronts: public health and safety, economic stability and community service delivery. Along with the office number 429-3000, we want to provide our personal cell phone numbers so you can reach us directly without any delays: Natalie 433-1396 and Missy 853-3627.

How is the CFMC supporting community efforts?

On Tuesday in response to the coronavirus pandemic outbreak, The Community Foundation of Macon County activated the Macon County Emergency Response Fund, and our Board of Directors has committed $100,000 to the fund for our community’s response to the novel Coronavirus pandemic. The fund will support the health and well-being of those most directly affected by the COVID-19 outbreak through the nonprofits who serve the community.

How can I help?

The economic impact is already being felt in Macon County, and more needs will certainly arise. The Community Foundation will administer grants from the Emergency Response Fund in collaboration with county organizations coordinating the pandemic response. Funds will be released on a continual basis as fundraising continues throughout the outbreak and recovery phases of this crisis, making it possible to move resources quickly and to adapt to evolving needs. The Fund is designed to complement the work of nonprofit organizations within our community and to expand local capacity to address all aspects of the outbreak as efficiently as possible.

The first two grants from the Fund will support Northeast Community Fund located in Decatur and the Inter-Church Council Food Pantry located in Blue Mound serving the communities of Blue Mound, Macon and Boody. CFMC’s Board of Trustees executive committee will oversee the distribution of money raised. Please join us to ensure that people impacted by the coronavirus can receive the help they need. Consider a gift to the Response Fund. Learn how you can support these efforts.

We recognize and acknowledge the inconveniences our community is experiencing. Thank you for understanding and helping us keep our community, donors and employees safe. We will continue to provide additional updates via email, our website and social media.

Take care of yourself and take care of one another.