Community foundations represent one of the fastest growing forms of philanthropy across the country. The formation of affiliate community foundations has helped to fuel this rapid growth.

An affiliate foundation serves a county or a city, and operates under the direction and guidance of a host community foundation, usually one that has been in existence for some time and is significantly larger in asset size. The host community foundation provides investment management and accounting services, legal expertise and administrative staff support to each of its regional affiliates. The Community Foundation of the Great River Bend is host to nine affiliates.

Affiliate community foundations are led by a local volunteer board of directors made up of community leaders and may be staffed by an executive director. Each affiliate foundation focuses on serving its community and emphasizes local decision-making and grantmaking.