History

In 1979, a group of community leaders created the Watertown Area Community Foundation with $3,000 remaining from Watertown’s Centennial celebration. Their goal – provide a way for individuals to give back locally. 

For over 45 years, the Foundation has remained focused on the community of Watertown, responding to its ever-changing needs with the simple yet powerful adage of Looking Forward and Giving Back.

Now, with the support of thousands of generous donors, the assets of the Foundation exceed $35 million, and more than $12 million has been awarded to local nonprofit organizations and scholarship recipients.