The Kansas Association of Community Foundations (KACF) is a membership organization founded in 2005 by a dedicated group of volunteers representing community foundations across the state of Kansas who believe in philanthropy, peer-learning, and state-wide partnerships. It was their hope that KACF would impact the growth, development and organizational sustainability of Kansas community foundations as trusted community catalysts that offer in-depth knowledge of local issues and funding resources to help preserve the health and well-being of Kansas and its residents.

In 2009, 48 KACF members invested $207 million in their local communities through grants and scholarships; together these foundations hold more than $1.3 billion in assets which are helping to ensure the continued success of the communities they represent. Collectively, KACF members invested $16 million in health initiatives; $53 million in education; $4 million to benefit Kansas' youth; $43 million in arts and culture; $5 million in environmental issues and projects; $0.1 million in employment; and $11 million in community improvement and capacity building developments.

Prior to hiring the first paid executive director in September of 2009, KACF was run by a volunteer board of community foundation executives from across the state. There are currently 12 Board Members and five Committees: Executive, Advocacy, Conference, Sustainability, and Marketing. Additional task forces being formed as needed. There are three KACF regional liaison groups working with community foundations throughout the state.

Funding for the establishment of the Association has come from member fees and generous support from the Kansas Health Foundation, Wichita.

The mission of the Kansas Association of Community Foundations is to leverage the resources of community foundations in the State of Kansas to strengthen and promote community philanthropy and to inspire action that will improve the quality of life in Kansas communities.

The purpose of KACF is to strengthen and promote community philanthropy in Kansas, to educate members on effective philanthropic operations, and to foster collaboration and the exchange of information regarding philanthropic programs and issues.

Defined by the KACF Board at the “Strategic Planning Conference” in Topeka on January 20, 2010:

In the next 5-10 years, KACF will strive to achieve the following goals:

1. KACF is financially self-sustaining.
2. KACF offers flexible and core educational programs and resources that meet the needs of community foundations and their staff, professional advisors, boards, and donors.
3. KACF is known as the “go to” resource and information center for Kansas community foundations.
4. KACF offers an accessible network of community foundation colleagues for sharing and exchanging information.
5. KACF maintains stability with an efficient system of operations, including clear policies and procedures.
6. KACF is known throughout Kansas for its philanthropic expertise and resources.
7. KACF is recognized nationally and regionally as a leader in the community foundation field.
8. All KACF members are compliant with national standards.
9. All Kansas community foundations are KACF members.
10. Member foundations are stronger as a result of KACF efforts.