investing in Athens County

The experiences and perspectives of the diversity of people in Athens County are the foundation of effective, meaningful action. Leaders – whether they formally receive that title or not, whether they are existing or emerging – are taking actions every day to take care of each other and improve quality of life throughout the county. Homegrown leaders are creating participatory, inclusive change, and ACF is here as a partner. We are committed to elevating the voices of those who have traditionally struggled to be heard. With the right support, local leaders are prepared to innovate and act to make Athens County a healthy, inclusive, thriving community for all. We believe that everyone has something to contribute, and that everyone can be a leader.

ACF supports the organizations that support the communities throughout Athens County. We believe that stronger, more connected nonprofit organizations can best deliver on their missions. Results that matter come from community members, nonprofits, and public and private organizations working and learning together, listening, and engaging in constructive conversations. Our capacity-building programs and services help nonprofit organizations and nonprofit leaders develop their own skills, grow their organizational capacity, and strengthen support networks. We play the role that best supports nonprofit capacity-building, as directed by the organizations themselves – because we seek outcomes, not ownership. 

We are inspired every day by community members who are making a difference in Athens County. ACF is often a crossroads for individuals, organizations, businesses, and institutions that want to engage in change-making efforts. ACF serves as a hub that connects people, perspectives, places, and policies. We believe these connections will exponentially magnify individual strengths that will in turn open pathways and create possibilities. We value the experience and experiments happening around the county, and when something is working, we invest wholeheartedly and expand the reach, leveraging local knowledge for a larger impact. Our goal is to provide flexible, responsive connections and resources that will allow swift action toward sustainable, meaningful outcomes. We have seen how big investments in collaborations can pay off.