banner for 4-H Endowment fund

Help keep 4-H programs strong in Chautauqua County!

4-H Endowment Fund

In 2012, the Chautauqua County legislature eliminated funding to the 4-H Program, resulting in the suspension of the 4-H veterinary science course, participation in the State Fair evaluation booth, and the elimination of the volunteer leaders program.  Enrollment fees were increased to $50 a member, with a maximum fee of $200 per family.  In response to these cuts, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County established  the 4-H Endowment Fund at the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation to support the continuation of 4-H programs in our county.  We invite your support of this important effort!


What is an Endowment Fund?

An endowment fund is a permanent fund that is established to support an organization forever. With this type of fund, the original gift amounts would not be accessible. The 4-H program would receive an annual grant award, which would be the net income generated by the fund.


How Does It Work?

To continue the success of the Chautauqua County 4-H, we are accepting contributions at the following levels of giving:

  • Health $5,000 and above
  • Head $2,500-$4,999
  • Hands $500-$2,499
  • Heart $250-$499

Contributions under $250 make payable to "Friends of 4-H CCE"and mail directly to the 4-H Office at

CCE 4-H

@JCC Carnahan Center

525 Falconer St. PO Box 20

Jamestown, NY 14702


Why Partner with the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation?

  • Establishing an endowment fund with the Foundation provides:
  • Maximum tax advantages for the donor
  • Professional investment management
  • Donor acknowledgements, tax return filings, financial reports, administrative labor and public accountability
  • Allows 4-H to focus on what we do best, unique, educational programming for the youth of Chautauqua County.

Donate Online

You can make your gift to 4-H securely online through the  Community Foundation of Chautauqua County


Donate by Mail

Tax-deductible donations may be mailed to: Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, 418 Spring Street, Jamestown, NY 14701.  Please make checks payable to: Chautauqua County 4-H Endowment Fund.

Last updated October 29, 2020