The Warren County Foundation (WCF) has been making a difference for more than two decades. Established to help people help others, the Foundation has become an integral part of the community. Their mission is to improve the quality of life in Warren County and to create an avenue to facilitate contributions.
As the Foundation's President and CEO Tom Seddon says, "Everyone cares about something."
Recognizing the growing demand for services, The Warren County Foundation has innovated its strategy by creating an endowment fund. An endowment fund is an account in which the principal is never touched. The organization only draws from the interest that has accrued.
The goal is for the Forever Endowment to be a five-million-dollar fund operating on a four percent spending policy, increasing the yearly gifts the WCF could grant by $200,000. By contributing to the endowment, residents can help the Foundation increase their impact.
"People think 'on my own I can't do enough,' but the Foundation provides a vehicle to leverage and increase those gifts," explains Mike McGinty, ambassador for WCF.
While donations can be made online or by dropping a check off in person, a more active way to get involved is to attend the 16th Annual WCF Community Service Awards on June 8th. The gala is an opportunity to recognize those who have made significant contributions to the community.
While the number of awards is limited, there are countless people who deserve them. The WCF’s Quality of Life Community Impact focus areas are Community Health, Education, Poverty & Hunger, Recreation & Leisure, Environment, and Economic Growth & Vitality. This translates to popular initiatives such as working with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, providing free books to children from birth to age five.
It also means quiet moments of service. Recently, the Foundation teamed up with three donors - the Leasure Family Fund, Kent Savage, and Mike & Amy Schneider - leveraging their funds to purchase Winnie, a therapy dog. Winnie serves Warren County Children Services, the Child Advocacy Center of Warren County, and Warren County Juvenile Court. These institutions now have a resource that will provide ongoing relief for children during some of the most stressful times in their lives.
Kelly Carpenter, Warren County Children’s Services supervisor praised the initiative saying, “Winnie has made such an impact in her short time with us, and we can’t wait to see what’s ahead for her!”
Building resilience in all children is a priority for the WCF. Through supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Warren County, the WCF helps connect children to adult mentors, ensuring children facing adversity receive the support they need through one-to-one relationships.
Adults facing abuse are also supported by the WCF. Safe on Main provides shelter services for survivors of domestic violence in Warren County. Safe on Main staff members also go to court with survivors so they don’t have to face their abusers alone. They help people file for protection orders, connect them to LegalAid, provide therapy and facilitate support groups.
Additionally, the WCF supports an incredible organization through Warren County Community Services called Adult New Readers. This service trains volunteers and pairs them with adults who need support gaining literacy. Greater literacy skills translate directly to a larger network of possibilities and a stronger economy.
The impact of Warren County Foundation’s commitment to philanthropy, education, and community development has made a lasting difference in the lives of countless individuals. But they have also contributed to a deeply rewarding sense of purpose and fulfillment in those who give. Many prominent local families and organizations, including the Yost Family, the Kiwanis Club and the Natorp Family partner with the Foundation to facilitate their giving, and are proud to share their experiences to encourage others to do the same.
"The Natorp family has appreciated the work and support from the Warren County Foundation for our philanthropic giving for more than 20 years. The Foundation provides a vehicle that helps individuals and companies make donations to causes and nonprofit organizations in Warren County," shares Ken Natorp, chairman of Natorp's Nursery and Landscaping.
As the Warren County Foundation looks to the future, they remain committed to their mission. "We're excited about what the future holds," says Tom. "We're committed to continuing to support the community and to help people give back to the causes they care about."
The Warren County Foundation is a shining example of how a community can come together to leverage resources, creating a positive change. As they celebrate their 25th anniversary, WCF looks to the future with hope and determination to continue its work and make a difference in the world. WarrenCountyFoundation.org
You’re Invited: WCF Annual Community Service Awards
What:
The Warren County Foundation’s 16th Annual Community Service Awards celebrates leaders in service to the county and offers an opportunity to contribute to the new five-million-dollar Forever Endowment.
When:
Thursday, June 8, 2023, at 7:00 p.m.
Where:
The Manor House
7440 Mason Montgomery Rd, Mason
Details:
Invitations are open to the public. The program will be preceded by dinner and cocktails.
For more information on how to donate, or to register to attend the event contact the Warren County Foundation at 513.934.1001 or email info@warrencountyfoundation.org.
"People think 'on my own I can't do enough,' but the Foundation provides a vehicle to leverage and increase those gifts."
