Western Mountains

The Carrabassett River, which flows through Franklin and Somerset counties by Axel Drainville/Flickr

Background

The Western Mountains Fund was established in 1992. The purpose of the fund is to support nonprofit organizations and projects that serve Franklin and Somerset counties. This fund is a permanent, grantmaking resource that grows through contributions from individuals, businesses, and foundations. These partners share our commitment to strengthen Maine communities and increase charitable resources for all.

The Western Mountains Committee is made up of leaders who live and/or work in Franklin and Somerset counties. These advisors serve as local ambassadors for the foundation, review proposals, recommend grant awards, and help build philanthropic resources in the region.

The Western Mountains Committee awards grants from the Western Mountains Fund and other related funds through the Community Building Grant Program. They make recommendations to fund proposals that meet the grant program criteria and have the greatest potential for positive impact on the quality of life in Franklin and Somerset counties.

How MaineCF serves Franklin and Somerset counties

Assets: The foundation holds more than $8.6 million in assets dedicated to Franklin and Somerset counties, including donor-advised funds, designated funds to support specific organizations, scholarships, and field-of-interest funds.

Scholarships: The foundation holds seven scholarship funds for students in Franklin and Somerset counties.

Agency funds: The foundation manages $9.7 million in charitable long-term funds on behalf of nonprofit organizations throughout Franklin and Somerset counties.

Why support the Western Mountains Fund?

It's a permanent fund to help strengthen communities
Grants support a broad spectrum of nonprofits, including arts, education, environment, economic development, and human services
Local volunteer advisors award grants
Pooled charitable gifts increase the impact
The fund is invested for growth