What is a Community Fund?
A Community Fund allows individuals and groups to contribute time and money toward the betterment of a specific community. Each community fund has a volunteer advisory board comprised of local members who encourage the growth of the fund and oversee distributions in the form of grants. These grants are awarded to community projects and programs based on the changing needs of that community. The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin oversees 16 community funds in its nine-county service area.
- Since its founding, the Darlington Area Community Fund has given back $79,000 to the community.
About the Fund
Established in 1999, the Darlington Area Community Fund is a permanent, unrestricted endowment created to serve the Darlington area. Its growth and success depends on people like you who share a commitment to invest in the community of Darlington to meet charitable, educational, historical, and cultural needs.
Each year a portion of the Fund’s earnings are given back to the community in the form of grants. Volunteer advisory board members initiate fundraising activities and lead the grant distribution process.
The Darlington Fund is a component fund of the Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin.
About our Grants
Once per year the advisory board awards grants to non-profit organizations, the local school district, and/or local government agencies providing charitable programs or projects serving the good of the community. Grants are presented at a ceremony in late November.
Recent Grant Awards
Darlington Community Revitalization Inc
- Fall in Love with Darlington Night Market/ Tunes at Twilight/ Movie Night/ 60th Annual Canoe Fest
Lafayette County Historical Society
- 2025-26 Advertising Expense
Driver Opera House Restoration Inc
- Fundraising Events and Performance License Fees
Total 2025 Grants: $9,300
Grant Guidelines
Tips and tools for you to use as you prepare your application. Print out this PDF as you prepare your grant for a quick checklist of your progress.
Invest In Your Community
Donations to the Darlington Area Community Fund are welcome at any time of the year. All gifts are tax deductible. Mail a check to this address, or click the button to donate online.
Darlington Area Community Fund
c/o Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Gift Processing Center
P.O. Box 733
Monroe, WI 53566
c/o Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin
Gift Processing Center
P.O. Box 733
Monroe, WI 53566
Advisory Board Members
The Fund is advised by a committee of community volunteers who initiate fundraising activities and determine grant awards:
Bob BoyleMichele Crowley
Katie Curry
Lori Nodorft
Deb Pickett
Carmen Rielly
Jill Ringen
Aaron Wolfe