SHARED ROOTS: Intro

In a timeless dance of interconnectedness, the trees in a forest mirror the essence of a thriving community.

Shaded by a verdant canopy, shared roots delve deep into the soil to support individual trees that stand tall and proud, connected by intertwining branches exemplifying an interdependence that binds each one together. Their intricate network of roots, hidden from the surface, reminds us of our deep connections, fed by empathy and compassion.

Just as a diverse array of sugar maples, walnut, pine, and poplars coexist, a healthy community embraces its diversity, recognizing that unique perspectives enrich a beautiful and collective tapestry of experiences and beauty. Like the forest, we weather storms and disasters, our resilience tested and fortified by our commitment to facing each challenge … united.

Ultimately, both the forest and our community embody a profound sense of renewal and growth, as we continuously adapt, evolve, and sow seeds of hope for a prosperous future for us all.

Dear friends,

One of the many leadership gems to come out of the show Ted Lasso was the scene between the lovable Coach Lasso and a prima donna player who didn’t have a clue how to just be a member of a team.

“Jamie,” Lasso said, “if you can just figure out a way to turn that ‘me’ into ‘us’, the sky’s the limit for you.”

Since Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee was founded over 30 years ago, our region has grown by a whopping 71%. While there are moments when it seems like the tribalistic walls that divide us have grown even higher, I believe the shared roots that unite us run even deeper.

I joined CFMT this year with the belief that the most important word in our name is not foundation, but community. Community calls us to transcend mine or yours, one or the other, better or worse, donor or recipient. When the world tells us to pick a corner, I still believe it is possible for ‘us’ and ‘them’ to be united without losing our identity and beyond dividing walls of hostility. This is the role of a community foundation in the 21st century, and this is the organization Middle Tennessee is calling us to become.

Over the past few months, we’ve moved into a home that offers us space to come together in new ways. We have also unveiled a new logo designed to represent what happens when mine and yours become ours. Both of these small steps get us started on the journey that will define our next great chapter, a chapter I hope we will create—together.

On behalf of the Board and staff of Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, thank you for believing in us over the years. As the following pages in this report attest, your partnership has helped us do some amazing things. We could not be more grateful for the past we have shared, nor more hopeful for the road that lies ahead.

For together, the sky’s the limit.

Gratefully,

Hal Cato

NEW HEADQUARTERS

We officially moved to our new headquarters at 3421 Belmont Boulevard in Nashville, Tennessee. The Jane and Richard Eskind and Family Building serves as a hub for the work of the Community Foundation and as a convening and educational space for our nonprofit and community partners. Sustainability was at the forefront in creating the building, which features cross-laminated timber that stores carbon and reduces our footprint, bioretention areas for stormwater infiltration, public sidewalks to promote walkability, and many more features.

NEW LOGO

We have a new look too. CFMT’s revitalized brand encapsulates the essence of our dedication to connecting generosity with need showcasing a symbolic three hills inspired by the visually abundant rolling hills of Middle Tennessee. The hills reflect the critical partners of CFMT’s work: our Donors, represented by the radiant gold color, embody a spirit of generosity; our Nonprofit partners, depicted in soothing blue hues, reflect an unwavering dedication to making a difference; and our shared Community, shimmering in silver tones, represents the heart and soul of the Foundation’s endeavors.

Some may perceive the challenges we face as a community as insurmountable mountains. Through collaborative efforts with our partners, we will continuously work to unite our collective resources and expertise to transform these mountains into rolling hills.