Improving the quality of life in w​estern Kentucky, both today and in the future

Welcome to
Community Foundation
of West Kentucky

By educating individuals on planned charitable giving and raising awareness about the generational transfer of wealth, we empower families to create meaningful impact on communities that last. 

 We are enhancing our website to provide you with a better experience.
​Thank you for your patience during this time!

The 24th Annual Paxton Challenge

has begun! From today until August 30th, you can support your favorite Paducah-McCracken County nonprofits. Donations are match-eligible until August 30th at 4 PM.  Click the link below to learn more about this year's Challenge and match your online donation.
Western Kentucky communities are currently facing historic levels of flooding across the region. The Community Foundation of West Kentucky is accepting  financial donations to the Disaster Readiness Center of West Kentucky Recovery Fund to support local nonprofits  and long term recovery groups dedicated to assisting individuals in their recovery. Your generous contributions help provide essential resources and services to those affected by this disaster. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in our community during this challenging time.

Thank you for your support during our time of great need!

Support Flood Recovery

We believe when generosity of the past unites with the generosity of today, we amplify our impact on the communities of tomorrow​​

Generosity that Transcends Time

 CREATING COMMUNITY TOGETHER
FOREVER

​At the Community Foundation of West Kentucky, we offer our donors a range of tax-smart ways to support charities serving Paducah and surrounding counties across western Kentucky. Whether you choose to give today or in the future, we simplify the process of donating appreciated assets, including life insurance, IRAs, stocks, and cryptocurrency, ensuring you receive the maximum tax benefits for your generosity. ​

Join us and many others by choosing to be a part of the
Legacy Circle of West Kentucky...
Our family, our friends, our community, our legacy!
At the Community Foundation of West Kentucky, as a nationally accredited community foundation, we proudly adhere to the Council on Foundations' National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations to ensure high-quality services that advance the common good.

NATIONAL STANDARDS

"The institutions that donors choose to support must be credible and trustworthy. As a symbol of excellence and rigor, the National Standards Seal helps philanthropists and their professional advisers recognize and choose community foundations as a sound place to give and make a difference."

​Council on Foundations

CFWK Scholarships: Apply Today!

The Community Foundation of West Kentucky's scholarship applications are now OPEN  for applications! Be sure to check out all scholarship information using the below button below. 

Current News and Events

2025 Philanthropy 360 Winners!

WinnersUnion County Happy Pack
The National Quilt Museum
Paducah Historical Preservation
Paducah Pride United Together
Purchase Area Players
Marshall County Schools
Hope Unlimited Family Care Center
River Discovery Center
LivWell Community Health Services
Child Watch Counseling & Advocacy Center- CASA of West Kentucky
Special Olympics Kentucky
Hope for Life Pregnancy Care

2024 Fred Paxton Challenge for Charities

The 23rd annual Fred Paxton Challenge for Charities has wrapped up with more than $1.5 million in donations. Thank you for your support!

Read more about this year's Challenge here:

The Community Foundation of West Kentucky is proud to partner with Murray State University's Nonprofit Leadership Program to enhance support for the region's nonprofit sector through the Nonprofit Resource Center. This center is the culmination of years of collaboration between Dr. Bob Long and the Community Foundation. It represents our commitment to building capacity and developing skills among nonprofit leaders, empowering them to make a greater impact in our community.

Community Impact

Partnership for Nonprofit Excellence