This Huntsville org has raised $156m+ in charitable donations — learn more at their nonprofit networking conference this May

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Countless nonprofits have received funds from donors through the Community Foundation. (Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville)

Here in the South, we’re known as helpers. And one organization here in Huntsville is dedicated to spurring positive change in the community through charitable donation.

The Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville has continuously bridged the gap between donors and various nonprofits by providing funds to over 2,000 community organizations throughout their 18 years of service.

Curious about their work? Keep reading to learn more about how they support nonprofits, including an upcoming conference in May where nonprofit leaders, community members and volunteers can connect with professional development and networking opportunities.

What the Community Foundation does

The Community Foundation is a cornerstone of philanthropy in Huntsville. (Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville)

In 2008, a group of local leaders noticed a gap in the community between donors, nonprofits and community stakeholders.

Local business owners and philanthropists Joe and Pam Alexander subsequently provided initial funding to launch the Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville; in the years since, the Community Foundation has directed grants from donors to over 2,000 different nonprofits, ranging from youth art initiatives to housing shelters and neighborhood cleanup efforts.

Quick stats about the Community Foundation’s reach (as of March 1, 2026):

🎁 Gifts raised: $156,634,970
🤲 Grants given: $90,153,173
💵 Funds managed: 400+

In 2025 alone, donors gave $27,518,767 in charitable donation through the Community Foundation to invest in various organizations which strengthen communities.

These donor-provided funds also make it possible for the Community Foundation to host their annual NAVIGATE Nonprofit Network Conference^TM, where community members and nonprofits can learn more about nonprofit work, learn from one another and sharpen their skills.

Looking for ways to support nonprofits? Attend the NAVIGATE conference this May

NAVIGATE has been presented by the Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville since 2014 to serve Huntsville with professional development and networking opportunities.

The day strives to foster an environment of collaboration, learning and encouragement among all different types of nonprofits (and those looking for volunteer opportunities!).

The opportunities presented at NAVIGATE are paramount, with business leaders and community members alike gleaning valuable information from both sessions and networking:

“What makes the NAVIGATE Conference so important to me is the reminder that the work of serving our community isn’t something any one organization can do alone. When nonprofit leaders come together to share ideas and build relationships, it strengthens our ability to care for the people of Huntsville.”

_{Justin Brooks, Downtown Rescue Mission Senior Director of Ministries}

What to expect at NAVIGATE 2026

navigate conference — NAVIGATE is a huge hit for a reason. (Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville)

NAVIGATE is not your average conference. The event is an important cornerstone in our region’s philanthropy sector, allowing for anyone with an interest in volunteering or nonprofit work to learn from one another and learn about new opportunities.

The 2026 NAVIGATE keynote speaker is Alison Kling, CEO of Free2Teach — a local nonprofit which supports Madison and Limestone County schools by providing free school supplies to classrooms:

“For the past ten years, NAVIGATE has shaped not just my leadership, but the trajectory of Free 2 Teach. The relationships, ideas, and encouragement I’ve found each year have directly influenced how we grow, partner and serve teachers across our region. I’m always excited to attend.”

_{Alison Kling, CEO of Free2Teach + NAVIGATE 2026 Keynote Speaker}

The conference offers a wide variety of sessions, ranging from grant writing and advocacy efforts to finance and leadership training. Here are just a few of the topics you will see at NAVIGATE 2026:

🤝 Nonprofit 101
📈 Fundraising
🌟 Board Governance
🗣️ Public Relations
🙌 Organizational Leadership

This year’s NAVIGATE will take place at the Von Braun Center on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 from 8:30AM-4PM. Don’t wait to sign up — the early bird discount deadline is coming up!