Beckley Area Foundation exists to inspire and facilitate generous charitable giving that advances our community. BAF was established in January 1985 by ten community-minded citizens. It began with a gift of $1.1 million from the Dr. Thomas Walker Memorial Health Foundation as "seed" money for this Raleigh County project. BAF assets have grown to over $67 million more than 500 different funds managed by our three trustee banks. Today, BAF is one of West Virginia’s largest community foundations. Only the income from these funds is spent. The principal remains intact to serve the community forever. Since its inception, BAF has distributed over $18 million to charities and other worthy projects in the fields of education, public recreation, health & human services, the arts, animal services and beautification.