Building community was the topic of the Richland County Foundation Annual Meeting held May 7 at Kingwood Center Gardens.
Over 130 people attended to hear messages from Foundation President Brady Groves and keynote speaker Blackfish Consulting Owner Alison Black Cornelius.
Groves reported the Foundation’s assets were $161,942,579, with $6,628,378 in grants awarded during 2017 which far exceeded any previous year’s numbers.
Foundation donors were most passionate about supporting children, families and youth in 2017 with grants totaling $1,819,736. Other sectors receiving grants last year were community and community development at $1,646,607; education $1,041,760; arts and culture $986,979; economic development $ 317,301; human services $299,017; environment $186,498; churches $173,639 and health services $156,841.
The incoming Board of Trustee members approved were Karen Bierly, Community Action for Capable Youth founder, Brigette Burnell, Gorman Rupp Company attorney, and Chris Hiner, Richland Bank president.
Justin Marotta, John C. Roby and Chandler Stevens completed three, three-year terms and were recognized for their dedicated service to the board of trustees and the community.
Outgoing Chairwoman Beth DeLaney invited incoming Chairwoman Glenna Plotts to ceremoniously accept the gavel. Other officers elected were Chair Elect Julie McCready, Treasurer Michael Chambers and Secretary Jana Mulherin.
About the Richland County Foundation
The Richland County Foundation, a not-for-profit 501(c) (3) organization, was established in 1945 as a way for individuals to pool and invest their gifts for the long-term good of Richland County and its residents.
The Foundation helps people in Richland County give back to their community by investing their gifts for charity wisely so that grants can be made to improve the quality of life for all of the county’s citizens. Working together with donors, the Foundation meets important needs today and plans for a strong future.