In the spring of 2020, the Nevada County Relief Fund (NCRF) was established as western Nevada County’s response to the COVID-19 crisis. Within weeks, a public/private partnership was formed. Throughout the next two years, over $1,500,000 was raised to fund small businesses and nonprofits impacted by the pandemic and the effects of local wildfires. 

Galvanized by this extraordinary response, a Steering Committee composed of members of the NCRF’s Community Advisory Council (CAC) and diverse community leaders engaged in a feasibility study to determine whether a community foundation could be formed. The six month assessment, which included listening tours and conversations with philanthropic leaders who had undertaken similar initiatives in the past, underscored the urgency and importance of launching our first Community Foundation of Nevada County.

COFONC received its 501(c)3 designation in 2023, and formed its first Board of Directors. In 2024, we laid the foundation on which we will build a perpetual asset dedicated to the health and well-being of all citizens.