Almost a year ago, a small group began meeting to discuss how we might engage entrepreneurs and nonprofits to address the complex issues facing our state with new eyes, energies and resources. We set out to share our thoughts with others, and dozens of conversations later decided to take on the challenge of creating a community foundation to support the state of Utah.

There is no better time to launch our effort. Sure, times are tough. Nonprofits and the foundations, corporation and individuals who support them have seen their assets decline, all while the needs in our community are increasing. Now is just the time for the optimism and engagement community foundations offer.

This web site and the Community Foundation of Utah will, we hope, be a place to learn, share and create, together. I encourage you to browse around the site and learn about the impact community foundations are having across the country, and see how the latest research in evaluation and impact might influence your leadership.

The foundation and this web resource are works in progress. Let us know what you like, what you want more of, and what does not speak to you. In the coming weeks we will add a white board to facilitate civic dialogue about the issues facing our state, and a calendar where you can post events of interest to the sector. We want to offer a catalyst and a support as you find new ways to think about and invest in our collective future. Innovation, engagement, leverage - this is where we hope to offer something new and compelling.

We know that the task will not be easy or quick. Our collective success depends on our collective resolve. With your support the foundation will become part of the fabric of our commitment to each other and our state. Thank you for being a part of this effort, and please let me know what you think.