Fayette Community & Leadership Foundation Receives 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Status

Fayette County, GA — The Fayette Community & Leadership Foundation (FCLF), the philanthropic arm of the Fayette Chamber of Commerce, is proud to announce that it has officially received its 501(c)(3) nonprofit designation from the Internal Revenue Service, effective May 28, 2025.

This milestone marks a significant step forward in the Foundation’s mission to enhance the economic

vitality and quality of life in Fayette County through innovative programs and partnerships in workforce development, education, leadership development, and community development.

“As a longtime resident and member of the Fayette County business community, I’m extremely pleased and excited for the Fayette Chamber’s Foundation to have received its 501c3 designation. Our work in this effort began when I was on the chamber board of directors three years ago and to finally see our work payoff is gratifying. We are now in a place where we can generate new revenue with the sole purpose of making Fayette County a better place to live, raise a family, and conduct business.” said Brian Chustz, Board Chair of the Fayette Community and Leadership Foundation.

“We are thrilled to receive our 501(c)(3) status, which will allow us to expand our impact and deepen our partnerships across the community,” said Leonardo McClarty, President/CEO of the Fayette Chamber and Executive Director of the Foundation. “This designation opens new doors for funding, collaboration, and long-term sustainability.”

About the Fayette Community & Leadership Foundation

The Foundation is guided by core values of collaboration, innovation, integrity, and inclusivity, and is focused on four strategic initiatives:

• Workforce Development: Enhancing job readiness and closing the skills gap through training programs, career fairs, internships, and apprenticeships.
• Education: Supporting high-quality education and lifelong learning through mentorship programs, civics competitions, and educational summits.
• Leadership Development: Cultivating future leaders through programs like Leadership Fayette and youth leadership initiatives.
• Community Development: Promoting economic growth and sustainability through community improvement projects, leadership visits, and policy research.

With its new nonprofit status, the Foundation is now better positioned to attract philanthropic support and drive meaningful change throughout Fayette County.