CenDel Foundation

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Dover, DE
CenDel Foundation

We foster philanthropy and transform our community through charitable giving in Central Delaware.

The CenDel Foundation is a charitable organization whose purpose is to foster philanthropy in Central Delaware and provide for the betterment of its citizens. Kent County businessmen and women had long contemplated establishing such an organization but it was not until 2008 when Jennings Hastings spearheaded an effort to establish the Greater Dover Foundation that their vision was brought to fruit

ion. The original name was later changed to the CenDel Foundation in recognition of the broad support from businesses and individuals throughout all of Central Delaware. With private donations and generous grants from the Longwood and Welfare Foundations, the Greater Dover Foundation purchased a vacant bank building located in downtown Dover, renovated it completely, and offered the office space for rent to other non-profit organizations at below market rate. The CenDel Community Building was quickly filled to capacity with charitable organizations working together to meet the needs of those in Central Delaware. The CenDel Foundation is committed to helping generous people transform our community through charitable giving. Whether your philanthropic giving involves creating a fund and selecting grant recipients, charitable estate planning, or simply making a donation to an already established fund, we are available to assist. Since 2008, the CenDel Foundation has distributed over $3 Million in grants to charitable organizations in Central Delaware and we look forward to working with you.

05/20/2026

Behind every grant, every initiative, and every impact story is a group of dedicated community leaders working to make a difference. CenDel Foundation’s Board of Directors brings together passionate individuals committed to strengthening Central Delaware through philanthropy, collaboration, and service. Their leadership helps guide our mission, expand opportunities, and ensure lasting impact for the communities we serve. Learn more about our volunteer board here: https://cendelfoundation.org/who-we-are/our-board/

05/13/2026

Looking for a meaningful way to give back? The CenDel Foundation offers a variety of charitable funds designed to help you support the causes you care about — now and for generations to come. Whether you’re passionate about education, the arts, or helping neighbors in need, CenDel makes it easy to turn your generosity into lasting impact. Start building your legacy and strengthening Central Delaware—one gift at a time. Learn more here: https://cendelfoundation.org/cendel-funds/

05/06/2026

Our Foundation has had a busy few months investing in the communities we serve! Follow the link below to read our latest newsletter, highlighting our 2025 charitable impact, learn about a new tenant in the CenDel Building Community and see how our new website is helping us to better tell our story! https://conta.cc/4cvtMH3

04/28/2026

We’re excited to welcome Women Beyond Measures to the CenDel Community Building in downtown Dover! Serving women and families across Central Delaware, this nonprofit empowers women to heal, grow, and thrive through mentorship, wellness programs, and workforce support. By bringing organizations together under one roof, we’re strengthening collaboration and expanding impact across our community.

04/23/2026

The impact we make is only possible because of our incredible supporters. In 2025, CenDel received more than $54,000 in operational support and $72,000 in capital funding, along with a generous $50,000 contribution from Kent Sussex Leadership Alliance. These partnerships strengthen our ability to serve the community and expand our reach.

04/21/2026

Tonda and Joe Parks had so much fun hosting the 2025 Gourmet Dinner FUN’d Winner Dinner this weekend, prepared by Dennis and Carolyn Forbes! Winners Bill and Mary Jane Willis and their guests enjoyed an incredible multi-course meal and drinks, and transportation to and from the event. It was certainly a night to remember! Mark your calendars for the 2026 Dinner FUN’d Drawing which will take place on Friday, August 14. Tickets will go on sale soon!

04/16/2026

Beyond funding, CenDel Foundation continues to empower local nonprofits through programs like the Nonprofit Forum. By offering tools, training, and opportunities for collaboration, we’re helping organizations grow stronger, operate more effectively, and increase their impact across Central Delaware.

04/14/2026

Education and workforce development remained a top priority for our Foundation in 2025, with more than $103,000 in grants supporting programs that help individuals build skills, access higher education, and pursue meaningful careers. These investments are strengthening our local workforce and creating new pathways to economic opportunity — ensuring our community is prepared for the future.

04/09/2026

In 2025, the CenDel Foundation proudly invested more than $213,000 into initiatives that are changing lives across Central Delaware. From expanding access to education and workforce training to supporting families in need and strengthening our communities, these investments reflect our commitment to building opportunity and resilience. None of this would be possible without the generosity of our donors, partners, and supporters who believe in the power of local philanthropy. Together, we are making a lasting difference. Read our annual report here: https://cendelfoundation.org/cendel-publishes-2025-annual-report/

04/02/2026

At the CenDel Foundation, our mission is simple but powerful: to increase philanthropic giving and action across Central Delaware. As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, we are dedicated to providing resources, education, and support to underserved communities while helping nonprofit organizations address critical needs both locally and beyond. By connecting donor passions with real community needs, we ensure that generosity leads to meaningful, tangible impact. Through collaboration, learning opportunities, and a commitment to strengthening the nonprofit sector, CenDel continues to positively transform lives and build a more connected, resilient community!

Address

101 W Loockerman Street
Dover, DE
19904

Telephone

+13027247538

Website

http://www.cendelfoundation.org/

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