Editor’s note: The Community Foundation’s 2025 annual report is now available on our website or upon request by emailing Stephanie Garry Garfunkel at sgarfunkel@jaxcf.org. Below, you’ll find the letter from Chair Michael DuBow and President Isaiah M. Oliver, which introduces the theme, “Strength & Stability,” as well as links to feature stories that showcase the way endowed philanthropy provides lasting support to the local nonprofit sector.
Letter from the Chair and President
When asked why she became an artist, Kathy Stark—the 2025 recipient of the Ann McDonald Baker Award—spoke of her inspiration, first: the beauty of Northeast Florida’s natural environment. For her, art is inseparable from its subject matter.
In much the same way, philanthropy at The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida is inseparable from the needs unique to our area.
Love of community is what attracts donors to choose the Foundation as their philanthropic partner and what drives their grantmaking.
In 2025, the Foundation made more than $73.7 million in grants from 769 funds holding $809.8 million in assets. A majority of these grants benefited the Northeast Florida region.
Through changing times, we remain rooted in our commitment to donor intent and sound financial stewardship. Five years ago, we endured a global pandemic that disrupted lives and magnified needs. In 2025, many nonprofits faced sudden funding losses and sought to find common ground during difficult times.
In nature, resilience comes through adaptation and cooperation, and the same is true of our civic life.
Local philanthropy can play a role by convening people around important issues and funding innovative efforts that help the sector evolve and grow.
This year’s annual report draws its inspiration from artwork that showcases our natural environment.
Like the quiet, steadfast oak trees that ornament our area, The Community Foundation strives to be a source of strength and stability for important work in our community.
Our perpetual mandate remains evergreen: meeting today’s needs while building a better tomorrow.
With gratitude,
Isaiah M. Oliver & Michael DuBow
