“Growing numbers of community foundations of all sizes are taking unprecedented leaps into this leadership breach, developing and using their knowledge, networks, reputation, ability to contribute and leverage resources, and growing political acumen to drive change in their communities. They recognize that their endowments afford them the luxury of the long view in a society with a short attention span. They are harnessing the collective influence and access of their increasingly diverse boards, donors, grantees, partners and staff to tackle persistent problems that defy simple solutions. They are becoming the nexus where the energy, talent, ideas and resources of those who care passionately about their communities converge to meet the leadership challenges of this new century. ”

From the 2008 publication,
Community Leadership
by Community Foundations