In The News

Main Street Daily News – July 1, 2026 As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, we often reflect on the ideas that have shaped our nation: liberty, opportunity, self-government, and civic responsibility. Less often discussed, but equally woven into the American story, is philanthropy, the enduring belief that individuals can improve lives and strengthen communities. Long before the United States existed, the roots of philanthropy were already taking hold. More than 4,000 years ago, ancient Hebrew societies established systems

Press release from Community Foundation of North Central Florida GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The Community Foundation of North Central Florida awarded $6 million in grants in 2025, supporting organizations across a wide range of focus areas and marking one of the most impactful years in the Foundation’s history. The largest share of grant funding supported local education and mental health initiatives, totaling more than $2 million. One of the organizations supported through education funding was the CHILD Center, which provides early learning and

Press release from Community Foundation of North Central Florida GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The Community Foundation of North Central Florida has awarded a $150,000 grant to GRACE Marketplace to help offset rising food costs and meet the growing demand for services in the community. The funding comes at a critical time, as more individuals are relying on GRACE Marketplace for daily meals and essential support. At the same time, escalating food prices have placed additional strain on the organization’s ability to provide consistent, nutritious meals. 

Food 4 Kids Executive Director Margot DeConna (center) receives a $100,000 commemorative check from Community Foundation and Women’s Giving Circle representatives. Photo by Kirsten Rabin The Community Foundation of North Central Florida announced $235,000 in grants to local organizations on Thursday as part of its annual “Day of Impact.” The awards are the collective result of two Community Foundation fundraising groups: $160,000 from the Women’s Giving Circle and $75,000 from the Gainesville-Alachua County Association of Realtors (GACAR) Giving Circle. Since