Strengthening Middle Tennessee Through Community-Driven Philanthropy
Carli and I had the pleasure this year of hosting Katie Marchetti, Vice President of Philanthropic Services at the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee (CFMT). Born and raised in Nashville, Katie returned to her roots after a global career, bringing a fresh perspective to her work at CFMT, where she helps connect Middle Tennesseans with the causes that matter most to them. Through CFMT, Katie and her team are mobilizing resources to ensure a brighter future for the community by supporting the nonprofits that shape the region.
The Mission of the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee
CFMT plays a unique and essential role in Nashville and the surrounding communities. Acting as a bridge between donors and local nonprofits, CFMT enables people of all backgrounds to make meaningful contributions to their community. Whether it’s disaster relief, women’s issues, youth programs, or economic development, CFMT connects people’s generosity with real needs, amplifying the power of giving.
Katie explained that CFMT has a long-standing history in the region, responding quickly to crises and supporting over 1,600 nonprofits across Middle Tennessee. When floods, tornadoes, or other emergencies strike, CFMT becomes a go-to resource, providing much-needed funding to help communities recover. But CFMT’s impact extends beyond immediate disaster relief. Through donor-advised funds, endowments, and corporate giving programs, CFMT creates sustainable pathways for individuals, families, and companies to invest in the future of Middle Tennessee.
A Community-Centric Approach to Philanthropy
Katie’s role at CFMT is all about empowering donors. She works closely with individuals and corporations to help them establish funds that reflect their values and vision for the community. CFMT offers flexible options that make giving accessible, whether it’s setting up a family fund, a corporate foundation, or simply contributing to a cause. By helping donors understand the landscape of Middle Tennessee’s nonprofit sector, CFMT fosters meaningful, impactful philanthropy that aligns with each donor’s goals.
Katie emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability. CFMT thoroughly vets its nonprofit partners and uses a robust grant application process to ensure that funds are directed to programs with a proven track record of making a difference. For donors, this peace of mind is invaluable, as they can be confident that their contributions are being used effectively.
Cultivating a Culture of Giving
In addition to connecting donors with causes, CFMT is dedicated to educating the community about philanthropy. Katie spoke about CFMT’s efforts to engage young people and families in the process of giving back. Through events and educational programs, CFMT encourages children and young adults to understand the power of philanthropy. Whether it’s teaching children about budgeting and the importance of helping others or providing hands-on volunteer opportunities, CFMT is nurturing the next generation of community leaders.
The organization’s innovative approach includes special programs like the Girls Give initiative, which allows young girls to create small funds and make giving decisions with their families. Katie shared her personal experience with these programs, noting how transformative it can be for young people to see the impact of even small acts of kindness.
Building a Stronger Middle Tennessee, Together
Katie and the CFMT team are committed to creating an inclusive and vibrant Middle Tennessee, where everyone has the chance to make a difference. By bridging the gap between resources and needs, CFMT supports a wide range of initiatives that touch every corner of the community. From fostering local nonprofits to providing a platform for meaningful giving, CFMT is helping Middle Tennessee grow in resilience, compassion, and opportunity.
If you’re interested in making a difference, CFMT offers pathways for everyone to get involved, from volunteer opportunities to establishing donor-advised funds. As Katie put it, CFMT is all about connecting people who care with causes that matter, ensuring that Middle Tennessee remains a place where neighbors help each other thrive.
