In this episode of the Pocono Mountain Economic Development Corporation podcast, Executive Director Samantha Hulbert explains how the Community Foundation of Monroe County has grown from a startup nonprofit to a vital community resource in just over two years. The foundation serves as a bridge between donors and local nonprofits, managing everything from small $5,000 endowment funds to major donor-advised funds while maintaining fiscal responsibility and accountability. Hulbert highlights the foundation’s unique role in economic development through initiatives like workforce development collaboratives, housing support, and senior services, demonstrating how community foundations strengthen local economies by addressing critical infrastructure needs including housing, childcare, and workforce training across northeastern Pennsylvania.