Creating a Field of Interest Fund

Ann Sheffer of Westport established the Arts for Youth Fund in 2004 to support arts programs - particularly those for economically disadvantaged children - throughout Fairfield County. "Our goal is to ensure that every child has the opportunity to experience the arts," Ann said.

Field of interest funds ensure that specific community needs will always be met by targeting grantmaking to specific communities, causes or interests. The Foundation's Board oversees grants from these funds to make sure they remain true to the original fund objective in perpetuity.

You can give to an existing fund at the Foundation supporting a specific community or cause that you are passionate about, or open your own fund to address an area of need important to you.

Once  established, the field of interest fund you create becomes a permanent source of funding and support for the causes and organizations making a difference in your area of interest. Family, friends, colleagues and those who share your passion, can make gifts to the fund, helping it grow over time and magnifying the impact of your original gift.

The funds benefit from the Foundation's financial stewardship and are pooled with other Foundation investments for long-term growth.

View a list of current field of interest funds.

Contact Us to Get Started

To learn more about your establishing a Field of Interest Fund, contact Juanita T. James, President & CEO, at 203.750.3200.