Operation independence
“The Community Foundation of Teton Valley is becoming an independent organization—a strategic step that strengthens our ability to serve Teton Valley. Our commitment to transparency, community collaboration, and long-term sustainability remains as strong as ever.”
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The Community Foundation of Teton Valley originated as a Community Foundation of Jackson Hole affiliate to support local organizations on the west side of the Tetons. At 18, both valleys and organizations have grown and changed. At eighteen, the Community Foundation of Teton Valley is ready to work independently for the benefit of our community.
- Empowerment & Growth: This shift enables the Foundation to adapt to the evolving needs of Teton Valley. Independence will empower us to tailor grants, programs, and initiatives to the specific challenges of our community.
- Strategic Sustainability: This is a strategic, long-term investment in the sustainability of the Community Foundation of Teton Valley, allowing for greater operational control, efficient resource management, stronger internal systems, and long-term adaptability.
- Community Connections & Collaboration: We remain committed to collaboration, ensuring meaningful lasting impact.
- Leading with Vision & Purpose: Independence empowers the Foundation to guide our future and emphasizes our capacity to drive change and foster innovation within the community – further aligning our mission, vision, values, and goals.
- Transparency & Accountability: We will continue to uphold clear communication, measure and share our impact, and serve our community efficiently through the Tin Cup Challenge, Grantmaking, Nonprofit Resources, and Collective Impact.
F.A.Q.’s
You’re an affiliate?
In 2007 a group of Teton Valley citizens and nonprofit leaders, with the support of the Community Foundation of Jackson Hole, established the Community Foundation of Teton Valley as an affiliate to bring collaborative fundraising to the west side of the Tetons.
Why disaffiliate?
Both communities have grown and changed significantly over 18 years, leading to an increased demand for services and draw on capacity. Acknowledging collective growth presents new challenges; both organizations met for over a year to determine the best path forward for both Foundations. After extensive discussion, the groups determined that Teton Valley is ready to begin the journey toward independence!
When will independence be finalized?
The expected timeline for this transition is from January 1, 2025, through April 1, 2026. The first year included applying for 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, creating and approving organizational policies, determining software and hardware needs, securing necessary insurance, de-integrating data, and many other steps. The organizations will formally separate further in year two.
How will this change impact the Foundation?
There will be no changes to our grant or Tin Cup calendar in 2026. Funding opportunities will continue to serve community needs, with priorities shifting in response to Teton Valley’s evolving growth. The Tin Cup Challenge remains our flagship program and will carry on in all its glory! You can continue to send donations directly to the Community Foundation of Teton Valley. Once tax-exempt status is obtained, the Community Foundation will share its Employee Identification Number with donors and fundholders.
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History of the Foundation
INDEPENDENCE
- Central hub of philanthropy for Teton Valley donors, nonprofits, and the community.
- Awareness about our stature as a stand-alone nonprofit
- Increased autonomy and flexibility to meet evolving local needs.
OPERATION INDEPENDENCE
- In addition to regular programing, board & staff are tackling governance, policies, human resources, software solutions, insurance, hiring, investments, and fundraising to launch our independent organization in the spring.
SUSTAINED IMPACT
- Cultivating generosity and supporting more than 60 local organizations.
- Increased capacity with additional staff.
- Continuing to evolve with programming tailored to Teton Valley’s unique needs, maintaining a strong focus on community-wide collaboration and innovation.
- Emergency Fund becomes an Opportunity Fund for emergent nonprofit needs.
BUILDING CAPACITY & COMMUNITY TRUST
- Expanded staff to three to further support local nonprofits in a variety of capacities.
- Strengthened our role as a catalyst for addressing critical needs, such as daycare shortages, through the Early Learning Collaborative.
- Created and distributed Covid Emergency Fund.
GROWTH & IMPACT
- Expanded programs to include workshops, Youth Philanthropy, Competitive Grants, Donor-Advised Funds, and collaborative efforts.
- While supporting all sectors, the Foundation was integral in the origin stories of the Community Resource Center and ABC – Above & Beyond the Classroom.
FIRST TIN CUP CHALLENGE
- The inaugural event generated over $900K, surpassing previous Teton Valley totals from Old Bill’s – showcasing strong community backing.
- The Tin Cup Challenge became a cornerstone event for Teton Valley philanthropy, combining a giving campaign with a celebratory day.
ESTABLISHMENT
- Community Foundation of Jackson Hole supported the founding of the Community Foundation of Teton Valley as an affiliate organization.
- An anonymous donor provided the first Match Grant.
INCEPTION
- Nonprofit & Community leaders on both sides of the pass gathered to discuss transitioning Teton Valley nonprofits away from Old Bill’s Fun Run.
- A steering committee was formed to envision a philanthropic future for Teton Valley.