News Release
The
Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi
Hernando, Nov 5, 2002 -
The Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi was created one year
ago by community leaders in northwest Mississippi to bring about
positive change in local communities. The 501 (c)-3, non-profit
organization is dedicated to serving Mississippi’s nine northwest
counties: Coahoma, DeSoto, Lafeyette, Marshall, Panola, Quitman,
Tallahatchie, Tate and Tunica. Its neutral, apolitical nature enables
the Community Foundation to foster teamwork among all those committed to
improving their community.
The Foundation stimulates community improvement by encouraging
charity-minded people to make a permanent, lasting impact in their
communities through the establishment of endowed funds. When money is
invested in an endowed fund, a portion of the interest from that fund is
used yearly to further charitable causes. Meanwhile, the main
contribution continues to grow, ensuring that the gift will be permanent
and will increase in impact.
“The Community Foundation will also benefit Northwest Mississippi by
using gifts and donations from within our area to attract funding from
outside sources,” Foundation Director of Community Development William
Bailey said. “Many regional and national institutions that give funds to
charitable causes view a community foundation as a community’s most
stable vehicle for administering their funding.”
The Community Foundation’s major fundraising event is the Crystal Ball,
held each December. This black-tie party features dinner, live and
silent auctions, dancing and live music, and an awards presentation to
honor the philanthropic leaders of our communities. Reservations for
this year’s Third Annual Crystal Ball – “A Mystic Night at the Moulin
Rouge” – may be purchased for $125 by calling (901) 238-1066.
“With the Community Foundation of Northwest Mississippi leading
community development efforts, our area is poised for a renaissance of
charitable giving that will improve the quality of life for all the
citizens of Northwest Mississippi,” Bailey said.