Who will be your Valentine this year? In lieu of the standard flowers and candy, why not think outside the chocolate box and make a donation in your loved one’s name? Donations are splendid gifts that keep on giving because they help others while promoting kindness, generosity, and good will. We can’t imagine a better way to express love, can you?

The mission of the Branford Community Foundation (BCF) is to connect people who care with causes that matter. To accomplish this, we strive to support the causes that matter to you and your neighbors in an effort to help preserve and promote our community’s quality of life.

Ways to Donate
•Contribute to BCF’s General Fund. Your tax deductible donation can be made in memory of a loved one or in honor of an individual or group as a celebratory gift.

•You can also contribute to a previously established Named Fund, such as the Kendra Martin Scholarship Fund, which awards a scholarship to a graduating Branford High School senior from a one-parent or no-parent home, or the John E. Donegan Fund, which is an unrestricted fund that can respond to the changing needs of our community. Or, create your own fund.

If you are seeking support from the BCF for a cause that is dear to your heart, your organization can apply to the BCF for a competitive grant. We recently simplified the grant application process to help increase transparency and boost the BCF’s efficiency and efficacy for meeting our town’s ever-changing needs. The deadline for applying for a 2018 grant is March 15. Grant applicants are encouraged to attend an informational workshop at the Branford Fire Department Headquarters on Tuesday, February 13, at 9 a.m. Reserve your spot by emailing Foundation Coordinator Jennifer Mullett. You can also email Executive Director Liza Janssen Petra with any questions.

Love and generosity are in the air this Valentine’s Day! Donate to the BCF, establish a fund, or apply for a grant today.