e- Memorandum
November 2014 - In This Issue:
Giving Thanks
Community Foundation Looks Back and Gives Thanks

Each year I take the opportunity to look back and give thanks for what has transpired over the past twelve months.  This year I wanted to publicly thank the many donors of the Community Foundation.  The work we do as a staff would not be possible without your support.  Our mission is to "provide effective and rewarding ways for donors to fulfill their philanthropic objectives."  And, while our needs continue to grow as a community, so does the endless generosity of individuals such as yourselves who give of your time, talents, and treasures to help your fellow citizens. Thank you for your faithful support of the Community Foundation and best wishes to each of you for a wonderful holiday season.
 
   
 
Sharon Stredde 
President & CEO
Upcoming Events
Thursday, Nov. 27 - Friday, Nov. 28
Offices closed in observance of the 
Thanksgiving Holiday
Office will reopen on Monday, Dec. 1

COMING SOON!
Community Foundation 2015 scholarship applications will be available on the Foundation's website

Tuesday, December 2
"Holiday Celebration"
Aurora Chamber of Commerce

Thursday, December 4
"Holiday Party"
St. Charles Chamber of Commerce

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The Community Foundation has received 18 grant applications totaling more than $228,000 for its fall grant cycle.  We are honored to partner with these organizations whose mission it is to better the lives of those who live and work in the Fox River Valley.  
 Thanks for all you do!

For more information on the Community Foundation's grantmaking program, 
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Quote of the Day
 
"All streams flow to the sea because it is lower than they are.  Humility gives it its power.  If you want to govern the people, you must place yourself below them.  If you want to lead the people, you must learn how to follow them." 

- Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching

If everyone followed this creed, harmony would replace discord and peace would be achievable.  Few leaders have measured up to this vision.  Few know how to take the high road.

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Our Mission 

"To provide effective and rewarding ways for donors to fulfill their philanthropic objectives."

Our Vision

"To be recognized as a trusted philanthropic leader in the communities we serve through the delivery of the highest quality donor services, customized and unique grant and scholarship programs, and bold initiatives to address community needs."

Community Foundation Kicks off the Holiday Season!
Reception Provides Stress-Free Holiday Reminders

On November 4 and 5, the Community Foundation partnered with Plum Landing Retirement Community, Aurora Historical Society, and Prisco's Fine Foods to host two pre-holiday receptions at the historic Stone House at Plum Landing.  More than 50 professional advisors, Foundation board members, and community leaders attended the two events that kicked-off the holiday season.  Prisco's Fine Foods provided wine tastings and cheese pairings and the Aurora Historical Society provided photos and historical information on the Mighell family and the Stone House.  

 
Professional Advisors and other community leaders gather for two holiday kick-off receptions at the historic Stone House.



The Community Foundation would like to thank Plum Landing Retirement Community, the Aurora Historical Society, and Prisco's Fine Foods for making this event possible.

Happy Holidays from the 
Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley!

Stress Free Holiday Tips
CF Provides Tips to Keep Holidays Stress Free!

Are you already feeling the stress of the holidays beginning to build?  Do you look back on the holidays every year and think, "How did they go by so quickly?"  Here are a few simple tips to help keep your holidays stress-free!

Set aside 15 minutes each day to stare into space. Take deep breaths and relax.

Sit in front of the fireplace or, if you don't have a fireplace, sit in front of a candle and listen to Christmas carols or Chanukah songs.

Watch an old Christmas movie that has special meaning to you and your family.

Last Minute Recipe Ideas!
Let Prisco's Fine Foods Provide the Perfect Side Dish

Are you looking for the perfect side dish or dessert to compliment your holiday meal?  Here are some great options from Prisco's Fine Foods

Broccoli Salad
Prosciutto Wrapped Asparagus 
Tortellini & Tomato Skewers with Pesto Dip
Buttercup Squash with Cranberries
Raspberry Ganache Tart

Gifting of Appreciated Stock
Donors Overlook the Benefit of Gifting Appreciated Securities 
With the stock market at historic highs, fundraisers who aren't talking to their donors about making a new gift or fulfilling a pledge with appreciated stock are missing out, experts say.

                   
                       111 W. Downer Place, Suite 312,  Aurora, IL 60506
                       Ph: 630-896-7800      Fx: 630-896-7811
                       www.CommunityFoundationFRV.org