The Mathews Community Foundation topped the $3 million mark in total assets and gave out over $150,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations last year.

According to the 2012 annual report, the increase was achieved through 420 donor gifts totaling $320,425, along with investment growth of $302,371. In addition, 34 local businesses underwrote more than $13,000 in operating expenses for the foundation.

Fifty-eight donor-advised funds comprise most of the foundation’s assets, adding up to $2,257,439. Created by donors who decide where the proceeds will go, the funds are often named after individuals. The Abigale Lee Casper Children’s Fund was started by Jenny and Steve Casper after they lost their baby girl to an infection; the Jack Clements Memorial Fund was named for a Bohannon resident who spent his life doing good deeds; the Mary Gay Lirette Music Fund was established in memory of a beloved Mathews pianist to support musical performances; and the Mary Watt Pulley Wild...