About the Putnam County
Community Foundation
Putnam County residents are humble, hardworking, and honest. It’s an undeniable truth that shapes our community—we have big dreams for the future, and we’re committed to bringing them to life, together.
The Putnam County Community Foundation supports those aspirations by creating opportunities for our community members to generously contribute their time, talent, and treasure.
Connecting individuals with the causes they care about.
Convening stakeholders to identify our most pressing needs.
Collaborating to develop solutions that strengthen our community.
We believe that anyone—and everyone—can turn their passions into action and create a positive impact. We have our sights set on success, and the most direct path to achieve it is through our donors’ generosity, our partners’ collaboration, and our community members’ engagement.
In Putnam County, we look forward to all that’s ahead, and we get there by giving back to the place we call home.
Look Forward. Give Back.
Mission Statement
The Putnam County Community Foundation partners with those who give to enrich life and strengthen community for this and future generations.
Vision Statement
We envision a Putnam County that thrives on generosity, connection, and quality of life.
Our Values
Community
We believe in the power of collective impact.
We passionately serve others by uniting people, organizations, and resources to create a brighter future.
Integrity
We believe in doing the right thing.
We build trust with donors, partners, and grantees by honoring commitments, prioritizing honesty, and acting ethically.
Stewardship
We believe in growing sustainable resources for future generations.
We responsibly manage entrusted gifts, investing and protecting our donors’ intent.
Leadership
We believe in solutions that produce significant and lasting results.
We commit to inspiring others and fostering collaborative partnerships that promote positive change.
Our People
Our team and board of directors passionately believe in Putnam County’s potential.
Our History
The Putnam County Community Foundation was founded in 1985 to create a lasting resource for the people of Putnam County. From the beginning, our community has proven that every gift, no matter the size, counts: our first donor, Aura May Durham, gave $1,500. By 2000, we had granted more than $1 million to our community, and by 2016, we were awarding more than $1 million in grants and scholarships each year. Our growth remains exponential thanks to our community’s generosity. In 2025, our assets reached $50 million, with more than $25 million granted to the community since our founding, and we’re energized by all we’ll continue to accomplish together.
Get in Touch
Contact us to learn more about our history and plans for the future, or share your own with us.