Darlene Phillips Elementary Education Scholarship Fund Established (12/19/2011)
The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) announces that a new scholarship has been established to benefit students graduating from Mapletown High School.

The Darlene Phillips Elementary Education Scholarship Fund was recently established by her husband, Mr. David Phillips and her family. In starting the scholarship fund, Mr. Phillips said, “We hope this fund will preserve Darlene’s memory and the many children whose lives she touched. The scholarship will help others who wish to continue school and become elementary teachers.”

Mrs. Phillips was teaching at Bobtown Elementary School at the time of her death. She had previously taught for Building Blocks Nursery School and the Monongalia County schools. A graduate of Carmichaels Area High School, she received a Bachelor’s Degree in elementary education from California University of Pennsylvania, and a Master’s degree at West Virginia University. She also attended the University of Pittsburgh where she obtained her principal papers and was working on a doctorate of education degree.

According to her husband, David, Darlene loved to teach and be around children. She had a special spot in her heart for all children. She was often inspired by her students as much, if not more than she inspired them. Many of the pre-school children she taught went on to become teachers because of her inspiration.

The Darlene Phillips Elementary Education Scholarship Fund will provide a $1,500 scholarship to a senior student showing dedication to the pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in the field of elementary education. While the scholarship award will be announced in May of the student’s senior year at Mapletown, the actual scholarship will be distributed following the student’s successful completion of their first full year of college.

The first scholarship award will be announced at the Mapletown Awards Ceremony in May 2012.

To apply for a scholarship, students must be a current student of the Southeastern Greene School District with at least one full year of instruction received at a SEGSD elementary school, and graduating from Mapletown High School in 2012. The student must be accepted as a full time freshman student for the 2012/2103 academic year at an accredited four-year college or university with the intent to pursue a degree in elementary education. Additionally, the student must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 during the last four years of schooling, have participated in extra-curricular activities, and have a strong attendance record during high school with no compulsory attendance violations.

Students applying for the scholarship must submit one letter of recommendation from either a teacher, administrator or extra-curricular and sponsor, along with the approved CFGC Scholarship Application Form and all other required attachments by April 1, 2012.

Copies of the Scholarship Criteria, CFGC Scholarship Application Form and required attachments will be available at the Guidance Counselor’s office at Mapletown High School, as well as on the CFGC website at www.cfgcpa.org/scholarship.

Darlene Phillips, the daughter of Merle and Pearl Shaffer, was married to David (Cecil) Phillips for 14 years and had one son, Garrett, whom she spent a lot of time teaching about history, the importance of a good education, and studying and doing your best. In addition to her husband and son, she had three brothers and a sister with whom she was very close.

The Darlene Phillips Elementary Education Scholarship Fund is one of more than 50 permanent and restricted funds held by the Community Foundation of Greene County, a nonprofit charitable organization. For more information about the Scholarship or CFGC, please contact our office by phone at 724-627-2010, email cfgcpa@gmail.com, or our website at www.cfgcpa.org.

First Federal Savings and Loan of Greene County Supports CFGC Pre-K Scholarship Program (11/23/11)

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) has received a $50,000 contribution from First Federal Savings and Loan Association of Greene County. The contribution will be used to support the CFGC Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC) Pre-Kindergarten Scholarship Fund which provides scholarship assistance for Greene County children attending approved pre-kindergarten programs.

“We are elated to be able to provide this support that will help Greene County families and children,” said John Mariner, President and CEO of First Federal Savings and Loan Association.

The EITC Pre-K Scholarship program provides children and families with an opportunity to participate in a quality Pre-K program which gives children a good start toward being successful in school and beyond. Families may apply for a scholarship, which is paid directly to an approved Pre-K provider, to help offset tuition and fees for the child. According to Bettie Stammerjohn, executive director of CFGC, some families think they can’t afford to send their child to a Pre-K program, but this scholarship opportunity will help offset the cost to the family and make Pre-K programs more affordable, even for middle income families. CFGC provided scholarships to more than 80 Greene County children attending twelve preschool programs during 2011.

"It is wonderful that First Federal of Greene County has chosen to support the EITC Pre-K effort in our community. The whole community eventually shares in the benefits of making pre-kindergarten available to its young children and families,” Stammerjohn remarked. “This contribution will go a long way toward ensuring that we will be able to provide scholarships for the 2012-2013 year.”

Through the state’s EITC Pre-K program, a business may receive a tax credit equal to 100% of the first $10,000 contributed to a Pre-K Scholarship Organization during the taxable year, and may receive a tax credit equal to 90% of any additional amount contributed during the taxable year, up to a maximum of $150,000 per taxable year. Additionally, the EITC allows contributions to a K-12 Scholarship program and a Public School Innovative Curriculum program. Contributions to these programs may receive a tax credit equal to 90% of up to $300,000 annually, if the business commits to a two-year gift, or 75% tax credit for a single year gift.

Businesses authorized to do business in PA and who are subject to one or more of the following taxes may apply for tax credits through PA DCED: Corporate Net Income Tax, Capital Stock Franchise Tax, Bank and Trust Company Shares Tax, Title Insurance Companies Shares Tax, Insurance Premiums Tax, and/or Mutual Thrift Institutions Tax. Partnerships, Limited Partnerships, and Limited Liability Corporations became eligible for EITC in 2008.

Business Tax Credit Applications are available on the PA DCED website at http://www.newpa.com/programDetail.aspx?id=62. Or contact Bettie Stammerjohn at the Community Foundation of Greene County at 724.627.2010 for further details.

To receive an EITC Pre-K scholarship, a child must be at least 3 years old and attending an approved Pre-K program. Household income must not exceed $60,000 with an additional $12,000 allowed for each dependent child. For more information on how to apply for an EITC Pre-K Scholarship, or how to become an approved Pre-K provider, call the Community Foundation at 724-627-2010, or email us at cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Community Foundation Dinner Celebrates Legacy and Service (11/15/11)

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently hosted a dinner to celebrate their continued growth during the past ten years and acknowledge special award recipients.

Nancy Davis, CFGC board chairperson emceed the event with nearly 135 attending at the Fairdale Inn. Throughout the evening, numerous individuals, businesses and professional advisors were recognized for their contributions to support restricted and permanent endowed funds held by the Foundation. Business owner and founding board member Dolly Throckmorton and local attorney, Timothy Logan, were both honored with special awards.

Dolly Throckmorton, was recognized through the Service Above and Beyond Award which is presented annually to a volunteers who has demonstrated a high level of dedication and support in service to the Community Foundation of Greene County over a period of years. In presenting the award, Margaret Rock, another long-time board member noted that Throckmorton has served as a member of the Board of Directors since incorporating in December 2000, with only one year off during that period of time. A native of Greene County, Throckmorton is the daughter of the late James A. and Mary S. Goodwin. Graduating from Waynesburg Central High School, she went on to study at the University of Pittsburgh where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business/ Economics with a concentration in Finance.

Returning to Waynesburg, she married John A. Throckmorton and together they have been contributing members of the business community for many years. Additionally, Dolly has kept busy teaching dance and fitness classes, running a dance clothing shop (now at In Motion Dance and Fitness) while raising three daughters, Anne, Clare and Meg

Throughout her service with CFGC, Dolly has served as an officer of the board during eight of her ten years of service to CFGC: Treasurer (2001), Secretary (2002), Chair (2004-2006), Vice-Chair, ( 2003 & 2009-2011). Additionally, she has served as Chair of the Marketing/PR Committee (2003-2007) and has served as a member of the Grantmaking Committee since 2006, including the year she was not serving as a board member.

In 2007, Dolly established the Good for Greene Fund, a discretionary grantmaking fund, in memory of her parents, the late James A. and Mary S. Goodwin. She noted when she started the fund that she learned philanthropy from her parents, both of whom were generous, taking time to get to know people and help out in big and little ways. In setting up the Good for Greene Fund, Throckmorton wrote, “I am thankful for the opportunity to establish the Good for Greene Fund. Endowment is one way to secure the future of many programs across the county that strive to improve the quality of life here in Greene County. I am confident in the Foundation that they will make careful and meaningful grants from the Good for Greene Fund.”

Another award recipient, Timothy Logan, received the William R. Davis Award which was established in 2009 to recognize professional advisors who refer clients resulting in cumulative permanent gifts of at least $250,000. This award was named for attorney William R. Davis who provided legal expertise and advice during the founding years of the Foundation. Logan has served the Greene County community as a member of the Greene County Bar since July 1990. He has worked with many clients over the years to help them meet their charitable giving goals through careful estate planning.

In 2007, a client wanted to ensure that his charitable goals could be carried out after his death. Rather than making a one-time gift to an organization, the client wanted to make a difference over many years. Logan contacted CFGC to see how the foundation could help. Working with Logan and his client, CFGC was able to set up an endowed fund agreement that would be fulfilled though a bequest from the client’s estate. The client was pleased to learn that he could specify the gift to the Community Foundation without naming the organizations who would ultimately receive the income from the endowed fund. The client also learned that should he desire to change the beneficiary of the endowed fund at CFGC, he would only need to change the fund agreement at CFGC rather than change his Will. Most important for the client, however, was knowing that his one-time gift to CFGC would provide ongoing income to other organizations for generations.

CFGC, a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages nearly three million dollars in assets through more than 50 permanent endowed and restricted funds. For more information, contact the CFGC office at 724-627-2010, or our website at www.cfgcpa.org.

Community Foundation Announces Fall Grant Opportunities (8/24/11)

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently announced that grant applications will be accepted until September 30, 2011 for the Fall Grant round of 2011. CFGC seeks to fund organizations and ideas that will have a significant and lasting impact on Greene County, its residents, infrastructure and future.

According to Bettie Stammerjohn, the Foundation’s Executive Director, approximately $14,000 is available for grants from the fall grant distribution. The Foundation expects to award three to five grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 with an average grant size of $2,000. Successful grant awards will be announced in late November for projects beginning on or after December 1, 2011.

Eligible applicants include nonprofit, charitable, tax-exempt organizations (recognized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code), educational institutions and schools, faith-based organizations and government organizations whose purposes and programs benefit Greene County residents.

Proposed projects may include any one or more of the following broad priorities: Arts, Culture & Humanities; Children, Youth & Families; Community and Economic Development; Education; Environment; Health & Fitness; Human Services; and, Religious & Faith Based. Applicants do not need to identify the specific grant priority.

To apply for a grant, applicants should prepare a proposal narrative, not to exceed three (3) pages, that includes a brief background about the organization and mission; a description of the proposed project, including project goals, objectives and outcomes, the need for the project and need for funds to support the project, a description of how the grant award will be used (budget description), and how the project will be evaluated. A separate line-item budget that includes total project costs and proposed grant costs must be attached, but does not count toward the 3-page proposal narrative. All applications must include the CFGC Common Grant Application Cover Sheet which is available on our website.

Additionally, a copy of the organization’s IRS Letter of Determination and a list of the organization’s Board of Directors, including addresses and affiliations must be included if the organization has not submitted that information within the past two years. Applicants may attach other supporting documentation that describes the project and organization.

General and specific grant guidelines, application procedures and forms are available on the Foundation website at http://www.cfgcpa.org. These should be reviewed carefully prior to completing a proposal.

Grant applications must be received in the CFGC Office no later than 4:00 PM on September 30, 2011. Facsimile or other electronic submissions will not be accepted. Information about the grants and application process is available on the Foundation’s website at www.cfgcpa.org. For additional information, contact the Foundation office at 724-627-2010, or e-mail cfgcpa@gmail.com.

CFGC Summer Food Program Fund Provides Grant for Outreach (8/11/11)

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) has awarded a grant of $3,000 to Central Greene School District to provide summer lunches at the Mountain View Garden Apartment complex.

According to Kim Cassidy, Director of Food Service at Central Greene School District, the grant will help ensure staffing and oversight to deliver and distribute the lunches at the complex as part of the Summer Food Service Program for which they are a sponsor. The lunches are served at noon each weekday (weather permitting) near the playground at the complex through August 19. Any child under age 18 may receive a free meal as part of the program.

The grant was made possible by contributions to Summer Food Fund at CFGC by Alpha Natural Resources, the Rotary Club of Waynesburg, and an anonymous donor. The Summer Food Fund is a non-endowed, restricted fund set up by the CFGC Board of Directors to address the activities, outreach and needs of the Sumer Food Program in Greene County. The Fund is supported by CFGC unrestricted monies, as well as contributions from private donors, businesses and civic groups.

The Summer Food Program outreach began during 2010 through the efforts of a Summer Food Task Force convened by the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and the Community Foundation of Greene County. Serving more than 800 children in the first year, the program’s goal was to expand the number of food distribution sites and increase the number of children receiving the hot and cold lunches. The program is on track to reach more children this year.

“Expanding the food distribution to Mountain View Gardens was an important goal for us this year,” said Ms. Cassidy. “We know that there are a large number of children from this area who attend the school, but the site is somewhat isolated. We wanted to bring the free lunches to them rather than they have to attend one of the camps for the lunch. We get anywhere from 12 to 40 children participate at this site, depending on the weather.”

“Alpha Natural Resources is pleased to support this project in our community,” said company spokeswoman, Karen Zalom. “It is a great project that helps children obtain free, nutritious lunches during the summer.”

Barbara Wise, president of the Rotary Club of Waynesburg echoed the sentiment. “The saying ‘it takes a village to raise a child,’ is so true. By partnering with these organizations, we can make a difference in our community and provide opportunities for all children to eat healthy.”

According to Bettie Stammerjohn, Executive Director of CFGC, the success of the Summer Food Program in Greene County is because of the collaborative efforts of many individuals serving on the Summer Food Task Force, including the food service programs at Carmichaels Area School District, Central Greene School District, Jefferson Morgan School District and West Greene School District, along with the Greene County Parks & Recreation Summer Day Camp programs, Waynesburg Borough Day Camp, Greater Waynesburg Christian Outreach (WWJD/West Sides), Eva K. Bowlby Library and Flenniken Library summer reading programs, several M.A.G.I.C. summer camp programs who serve as sponsors and/or food distribution sites. Other organizations who participate on the Task Force include, Greene County Human Services/FindOut, the Salvation Army, the United Way of Greene County, the Penn State Extension of Greene County.

“The outreach to Mountain View Gardens is one step closer to providing meals to all children,” noted Ms. Stammerjohn. “The Task Force’s goal is to keep expanding this program to new sites and locations. We are so appreciative of community businesses and organizations like Alpha Natural Resources and the Rotary Club of Waynesburg, as well as individuals who provide the financial support to make that goal a reality. It’s all about the partnerships.”

For more information about the Summer Food Program or the Community Foundation of Greene County, contact Bettie Stammerjohn at 724-627-2010 or email cfgcpa@gmail.com.

CFGC 10th Anniversary Grant Awarded To Literacy Council of SWPA (8/8/11)

The Board of Directors of the Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently announced the recipient of their 10 th Anniversary Grant. The Greene County Workforce Literacy Project, operated by the Literacy Council of Southwestern Pennsylvania (formerly known as the Washington Literacy Council) will receive the ten thousand dollar grant.

“The Community Foundation of Greene County is pleased to present this special grant award to help get the Greene County Workforce Literacy Project off the ground,” said Dr. Nancy Davis, chairwoman of the CFGC Board of Directors. “This project will provide a service that will benefit so many people in our community and will make a big impact for our residents and businesses.”

The Greene County Workforce Literacy Project will provide one-on-one and classroom-style literacy services to assist job seekers in Greene County increase their scores that are part of the testing for many jobs in the area. On-line tutoring/training software will be used with the highest level learners, while interns will be assigned classes of adult learners based on reading levels. Very low level learners or those with learning differences will be placed with volunteer tutors to work one-on-one.

Participants in the Greene County Workforce Literacy program will be referred through the PA CareerLinks office in Greene County. All participants will be tested using the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) on a 3 month cycle in order to determine initial placement, as well as show progress toward their goals.

The Literacy Council is thrilled to be chosen to receive this grant,” Amy Manko, Executive Director of the Literacy Council of Southwestern Pennsylvania said when presented with the check. “There is such a great need for programs like this in Greene County. Our aim is to help residents develop higher literacy levels leading to family-sustaining job which will in turn increase the County’s revenue and tax-base.”

Manko noted that good jobs are available to residents if they can achieve the specific levels of educational attainment necessary to apply for the jobs. Earlier this spring, Westmoreland County Community College held a free Roustabout Training course – with space for 65 potential gas-well workers in Greene County. In order to participate, applicants needed to test at the 6 th grade level or above on WIN and WORKKEYS exams. Several hundred people were screened and only 11 were found who could attain the score necessary to participate.

“Now is the time to address this issue while we can still help our local residents get into these lucrative positions,” said Manko, “before the businesses are forced to bring in workers from elsewhere with the appropriate skill set to perform the jobs.”

The CFGC 10 th Anniversary Grant is a special one-time grant opportunity established by the Board of Directors to celebrate the organization’s anniversary of its founding in December 2000 from unrestricted funds the organization has received. Each year, the board sets aside money derived from administrative fees, and income from the Francis “Bob” Bradford Fund, in order to make “discretionary” grants that benefit community needs in Greene County.

T he CFGC 10 th Anniversary Grant priorities included newer and innovative programs, emerging charitable opportunities and/or services not presently offered, and/or projects for the purpose of enhancing the quality of life in our community with a preference to projects that have the potential of positively affecting broad segments of Greene County’s population.

“We received many excellent proposals for this grant award,” noted CFGC Grantmaking Committee member Dolly Throckmorton. “It was not easy making a decision to choose just one project for the grant award. We felt that the Greene County Literacy Project provided the best fit for our priorities.”

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC), a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages $2.7 million in assets through more than50 permanent endowed and restricted funds, helping

CFGC Awards Grant for Carmichaels School District Greenhouse Project (8/2/11)

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) has awarded a grant to Carmichaels School District to construct a greenhouse and outdoor learning center. The grant award of $30,000 is made from CFGC’s Education Curriculum Improvement Fund.

According to Mr. Craig Baily, Superintendent of Carmichaels Area School District, t he Greenhouse and Outdoor Learning Center will be developed as part of the Environmental Science curriculum primarily for high school students (grades 9-12). The project will also provide hands-on learning opportunities for students in the English, Art and Communications curriculums of the high school, as well as part of the science curriculum for students in Grades K-8.

“Students participating in this project will experience and learn from college level research techniques as well as real-world, hands-on growing and plant propagation activities and ecosystem restoration,” said Kevin Willis, Environmental Science Teacher and Greenhouse Project Manager. “These activities will help students build future work related skills and position them for better success in college.”

The integrated curriculum will provide hands-on research and entrepreneurial activities for high school environmental science students to identify and differentiate between native plants and invasive plants, propagation of native plants, and restoration of a local ecosystem with native vegetation, as well as developing a walking nature trail through the restored ecosystem.

Students will raise native plants will from seed or cuttings in the greenhouse/outdoor classroom and distribute them to local businesses and residents and to restore local ecosystems. As part of their research and restoration activities the students will work closely with the Pennsylvania Conservation District, PA Game Commission, DEP and DCNR Bureau of Forestry, surveying existing invasive species and documenting locations on a map using GPS technology.

The Educational Curriculum Improvement Fund at CFGC was established by contributions from businesses participating in the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC). The grant was made possible by contributions to the fund from CONSOL Energy Inc. and EQT Corporation. T he EITC Educational Curriculum Improvement Fund supports innovative educational projects that enhance the curriculum or academic program of a public school.

“The greenhouse grant is a perfect fit for this fund,” said Bettie Stammerjohn, executive director of the Foundation. “We are always looking to support our schools with innovative activities to expand their curriculum. CFGC is pleased to partner with companies such as CONSOL and EQT to make it possible to provide grants that enhance the skills of students in our communities.”

Established through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, businesses may receive Pennsylvania tax credits for their contributions – 90% tax credit if the business makes a two-year gift, or a 75% tax credit for a single year gift, up to a maximum of $300,000 in credits per taxable year, for the innovative Educational Curriculum Improvement program.

For more information about grants from CFGC or the EITC program contact the CFGC office at 724-627-2010, by email at cfgc@gmail.com, or visit our website at www.cfgc.org.

2011 Community Builders Sessions Slated to Begin in August (8/1/11)

The eighth series of Community Builders of Greene County will begin September 12, 2011. The program will meet on the 2 nd and 4 th Monday through February 2012 (except December) from 5:30-8:30 each evening in the Community Action Southwest office at 58 East Greene Street. Applications are being accepted through September 5 on a first come basis and space is limited.

Community Builders provides training for persons interested in volunteering their time and talents to support Greene County nonprofit organizations. The nonprofit leadership program explores leadership, nonprofit governance and boards of directors, financial management, communication and team work, strategic planning, public relations, grantwriting, fundraising and volunteer engagement.

The series is geared to helping citizens become better volunteers with non-profit organizations in the community, whether it be through activities such as serving on non-profit boards, volunteering on fundraising committees, or providing volunteer services. Sessions are conducted by local experts in the field.

Each participant is asked to pay a $150 tuition fee which covers some of the cost of their materials and a meal during the ten session course. In some instances, the participant’s employer or organization may cover all or part of the fee for their employees or board members. However, a limited number of scholarships are available on a need basis for one-half of the tuition.

Applications and schedule are available online at http://www.cfgcpa.org/commbuilders.html.

For more information on Community Builders of Greene County call 724-627-2010, or email cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Community Foundation Accepting applications for Pre-K and K-12 Scholarships (7/27/11)

Parents of Greene County children attending approved pre-kindergarten programs or K-12 private/parochial schools may apply for a scholarship to help with tuition costs.

The Community Foundation of Greene County is accepting pre-kindergarten scholarship and K-12 scholarship applications for the 2011/2012 school year. According to Bettie Stammerjohn, executive director of the Foundation, the Greene County EITC Pre-K Scholarship program provides children and families with an opportunity to participate in a quality Pre-K program which gives children a good start toward being successful in school and beyond. The EITC K-12 Scholarship helps families choose private or parochial school education for their children.

Families may apply for a scholarship, which is paid directly to an approved preschool provider or private school, to help offset tuition and fees for the child.

Income eligibility guidelines have increased effective July 1, so more families will be eligible for the scholarship programs. For both scholarships programs, the household income, including all adults living in the house, must not exceed $60,000 with an additional $12,000 for each dependent child (as defined by the IRS). This means that a family with one child may not earn more than $72,000 to be eligible for the EITC scholarship programs.

For the Pre-K scholarships, eligible children must be living in Greene County, be at least 3 years old and be registered to attend an approved Pre-K program.

For the K-12 scholarships, eligible children must be living in Greene County and be at least 5 years old and registered to attend a private or parochial school in Pennsylvania.

“This scholarship opportunity offsets the cost of tuition to help make Pre-K programs and private school more affordable, even for middle income families,” said Mrs. Stammerjohn. “It really benefits both the families and the pre-k programs in our county.

The deadline for applications for the 2011/2012 school year is August 20 to be considered for a scholarship for the 2011/2012 school year (both fall and spring semesters.) Applications received after August 20 will be considered in the January 2012 application round for the spring semester.

Application forms are available on the CFGC website at http://www.cfgcpa.org/eitcprek.html, from your preschool provider, or from your private or parochial school.

Children must be registered for pre-school before applying for a scholarship. Participating preschool programs are: All Saints Regional School, Masontown; Building Blocks Preschool, Carmichaels; Calvary Chapel Preschool, Fredericktown, Christian Sandbox Preschool, First Baptist Church, Waynesburg; Crystal’s Children’s Center, Rogersville; Growing Up Greene Learning Center at the Greene County Career & Technology Center, Waynesburg; Here Wee Grow Preschool, Nazarene Church, Waynesburg; Little Bears Preschool, Carmichaels; Nanny’s Creative Learning Center, Waynesburg; Open Door Christian Preschool, Waynesburg; Rainbow’s End Learning Center, Waynesburg; and St. Ann Catholic Church Preschool, Waynesburg.

Participating private and parochial schools offering school age (K-12 curriculum) include, but are not limited to: All Saints Regional School, Masontown, Calvary Chapel, Fredericktown; Giebel Catholic School, Connellsville; and Open Door Christian School, Waynesburg.

The Pre-K scholarship and K-12 scholarship programs are made possible by contributions to the Community Foundation of Greene County from businesses participating in the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC). EITC Pre-K Sponsors in 2010/2011 included UPMC and Weavertown Environmental Group. EITC K-12 Sponsors included Delta Develoment Group, First National Bank of Pennsylvania, Highmark, and Jordan Auto Parts

For more information about the Pre-K or K-12 Scholarship program, or the EITC program, call the Community Foundation at 724-627-2010, or email at cfgcpa@gmail.com.

William H. Davis, Jr. Scholarship Awarded (7/27/11)

The William H. Davis, Jr. Scholarship was recently awarded to Judith Drake, a graduating senior from Mapletown High School.

Judith Drake, daughter of Carla Richter of Dilliner, will attend the Registered Nursing program at the Westmoreland County Community College. Ms. Drake also attended the Greene County Career and Technology Center.

The William H. Davis, Jr. Scholarship was established at the Community Foundation of Greene Country in 2006 by Dr. Nancy I. Davis, and the Rev. William H. Davis, Sr. in memory of their son. The fund provides an annual scholarship for one or more graduating seniors of Mapletown High School with a financial need who will be attending the Westmoreland County Community College.

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC), a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages $2.7 million in assets through 50 permanent endowed and restricted funds. For more information, contact the CFGC office by phone at 724-627-2010, or email cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Dove Award Benefits Jefferson-Morgan Student (6/29/11)

Chelsea Dicks, a 2011 Jefferson-Morgan High School was the recipient of the Dove Award, a scholarship administered by the Community Foundation of Greene County. Dicks, the daughter of Mark and Tammy Dicks of Jefferson, was awarded the $1,500 scholarship at the school’s award program.

Chelsea plans to attend Waynesburg University and major in Journalism. As a student at Jefferson-Morgan, Chelsea participated in many school and community activities including serving as a representative to Student Council all four years and as President during her senior year. She was also a three year member of the National Honor Society, a member of the Leo Club, the Thespian Club, JMTV Club, Foreign Language Club and Debate Team and many other activities. Chelsea was also a member of the Varsity Club for lettering 3 years in volleyball and softball.

The Dove Award was established at the CFGC in 2004 by a donor who wishes to remain anonymous, in order to provide a scholarship to an outstanding young woman graduating from Jefferson-Morgan High School who is planning to further her education at an accredited four year college or university.

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC), a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages $2.7 million in assets through 50 permanent endowed and restricted funds. For more information, contact the CFGC office by phone at 724-627-2010, or email cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Rocky Doman Memorial scholarship Awarded to Carmichaels Graduate (6/23/11)

William Zachary Mundell, a 2011 Carmichaels Area Junior/Senior High School was recently awarded the Rocky Doman Memorial Scholarship through the Community Foundation of Greene County. Mundell, the son of William and Tamyla Mundell of Carmichaels, was awarded the $1,000 scholarship at the school’s award program.

Rocky Doman’s parents, Bob and Patti Doman, were on hand to present the award to Mundell.

The Rocky Doman Memorial Scholarship Fund was created at the Community Foundation of Greene County in honor of Rock A. Doman. Rock, a 2000 graduate of Carmichaels Area High School, was an outstanding high school football player who won numerous awards and accolades. He was one of only four Greene County players to rush for 4,000 yards. The scholarship is open to a senior male or female student from Greene County who is planning to pursue a degree at a two- or four-year institution of higher education, is a standout athlete, and demonstrates the qualities of a team player with a humble spirit.

Mundell was a 4 year letterman in football, serving as Defensive Captain during his junior and senior years of school. He also played two years of varsity basketball. During his tenure in high school sports, he was selected for the WPIAL All-Star Football Team; Athlete of the Week, All Conference Award (2 years) and Carmichaels Lion’s Club MVP Award.

Mundell was also a member of the National Honor Society, Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD), and the Ski Club.

The Rocky Doman Memorial Scholarship is made possible through the contributions of many individuals, businesses and corporations who participated in the Rocky Doman Memorial Scholarship Golf Outing. Another golf outing is planned for August 2011 to help raise the $25,000 needed to permanently endow the scholarship fund at CFGC.

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC), a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages $2.7 million in assets through 50 permanent endowed and restricted funds. For more information, contact the CFGC office by phone at 724-627-2010, or email cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Army Specialist Gregory A. Cox Memorial Scholarship Awarded to Jefferson-Morgan Senior (6/17/11)

A Jefferson-Morgan High School senior recently received the second Army Specialist Gregory A. Cox Memorial Scholarship award. The Community Foundation of Greene County presented Joshua Wolfe with the $1,000 scholarship at the Jefferson-Morgan Awards Banquet in May.

Mr. Wolfe, son of Shara Wolfe, plans to attend California University of Pennsylvania, majoring in Industrial Technology. While at Cal U he also plans to join the Army ROTC program. As a student at Jefferson Morgan High School, Wolfe maintained a 3.5 grade average. Additionally, he was active in extracurricular activities including Football, Envirothon, Art Club, Academic Team, Debate Team, Varsity Club, Big Brothers/Big Sisters and Upward Bound.

The Army Specialist Gregory A. Cox Memorial Scholarship was established at the Community Foundation of Greene County to assist a Greene County student from any school who will be attending college and planning to enter a career in Public Safety (such as police, fire, EMT, emergency management, etc. or public service (such as health, education, social work, etc.) and who has a financial need. Preference is given to students who will participate in Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), but it is not required. The scholarship is funded with contributions from family and friends, along with proceeds from the Greene River Trail Heroes Run/Walk, organized each fall by the Greene County Department of Parks and Recreation.

Army Specialist Gregory Cox was the first Greene County serviceman to die in the fighting in Iraq. Born July 6, 1983, a son of John E. and Mary Anne Cox of Carmichaels, Greg was only 21 when he died as a result of injuries when the Humvee in which he was riding overturned near Balad, Iraq. He was assigned to the 1 st Infantry Division.

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC), a private, non-profit 501c3 organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages more than $2.0 million in assets through nearly 40 different funds. Gifts made through the Community Foundation are tax deductible. For more information about the Community Foundation contact Bettie Stammerjohn by phone at 724-627-2010, email cfgc@gmail.com, or visit www.cfgcpa.org.

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC), a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages $2.7 million in assets through 50 permanent endowed and restricted funds. For more information, contact the CFGC office by phone at 724-627-2010, or email cfgcpa@gmail.com.

William and Shirlely Hanley Scholarships Awarded at Carmichaels and Mapletown (6/9/2011)

The first annual William and Shirley Hanley Memorial Scholarship was award in May to senior students at Mapletown High School and Carmichaels Area High School by the Community Foundation of Greene County.

Natasha Stansfield and Robert Kowalewski each received a $1,000 scholarship award to be used for the college or university of their choice.

Natasha Stansfield, a 2011 graduate of Mapletown High School is the daughter of Kevin and Anita Stansfield of Greensboro. She will be attending Penn State University – Eberly Campus in Uniontown. Bettie Stammerjohn, executive Director of the Community Foundation of Greene County presented the award to Stansfield.

Robert Kowalewski, a 2011 graduate of Carmichaels Area High School is the son of Robert and Rita Kowalewski of Crucible. He is planning to attend Robert Morris University majoring in Engineering or Environmental Science. Nancy McIntire and Jocelyn Tsosie, sister and niece, respectively, of the scholarship’s donor presented the award to Kowalewski.

The scholarship, which will be used for books and supplies, is awarded to one student each at Mapletown High School and Carmichaels Area High School who is planning to pursue a Bachelor’s degree at a four-year college or university. The award is based on an interview with a scholarship committee at each high school, with a preference for student with a financial need.

The William and Shirley Hanley Memorial Scholarship was initiated this spring by Dorothy Hanley in memory of her parents, William and Shirley. Hanley recalled how her father was an advocate of higher education and encouraged her and her brothers and sisters to go to college. “I watched how my parents sacrificed to provide for their family and I knew that an education would give me the opportunity to succeed in the world,” she said. “Paying for my education was the struggle of course. I was able to cover the tuition each year, but I always struggled when it came to paying for my books and supplies. This is the reason why I want the scholarship to go towards books first and then student loans.”

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC), a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages $2.7 million in assets through 50 permanent endowed and restricted funds. For more information, contact the CFGC office by phone at 724-627-2010, or email cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Community Builders Honored at Achievement Ceremony (6/7/2011)

Graduates of the seventh Community Builders of Greene County leadership program were honored at a ceremony in the conference room at the RJ LeeGroup, Inc. office in Waynesburg.

Twelve individuals received the Community Builders Nonprofit Leadership certification for completing the course on management and leadership of nonprofit organizations. Each 2011 graduate received a framed certificate, a pin, and a chocolate hammer.

The twelve individuals who earned the Nonprofit Leadership certification were: John Agostinelli, James Cherry, Kable Dale, Sheila Fullerton, Karen Hoy, Audrey Jones, Caroline Kiger, Scott Roberts, Jenny Robinson, Mary Trauth, Joseph Weaver, and Rebecca Whoolery.

The Community Builder of the Year Award was presented to Kable Dale. The award is based on nominations by class members after each session to recognize a participant who displays the characteristics of a community builder throughout the program.

Community Builders provides training for persons interested in volunteering their time and talents to support Greene County nonprofit organizations.

The nonprofit leadership program explores leadership, nonprofit governance and boards of directors, financial management, communication and team work, strategic planning, public relations, grantwriting, fundraising and volunteer engagement. This series is geared to helping citizens become better volunteers with non-profit organizations in the community, whether it be through activities such as serving on non-profit boards, volunteering on fundraising committees, or providing volunteer services.

Archie Trader, Greene County Commissioner, provided a keynote address for the achievement ceremony, sharing his philosophy of giving back to the community with the graduates. Mr. Trader is a leader in the community – as a business owner (retired), farmer, and community volunteer. He has served on numerous boards and committees, including the Greene County United Way (serving as president twice) since its inception, the Rotary Club of Waynesburg (as immediate past president), Central Greene School Board (past board president), Penn State Cooperative Extension Office (past board president), Greene County Habitat for Humanity (past treasurer), Board Member of the Greene County Farm Bureau, Past Grand Knight and District Deputy of St. Ann's Knights of Columbus, Current President of Mon Valley Chapter of the Knights of Columbus of Greene, Washington, and Fayette Counties, Serves as acolyte, Eucharistic minister and Catholic education (CCD) Teacher of St. Ann's Catholic Church in Waynesburg, as well as a volunteer in the church's soup kitchen. He also serves as Vice Chairman on the Greene County Conservation District Board; is a non-voting member of the Farmland Preservation Board for Greene County; as well as the Vice Chairman on the Greene County Fair Board. He and his wife, Jeanette, live and maintain a farm in Prosperity, Washington Township, where he raises sheep and chickens. They are the parents of three children and grandparents of three grandchildren.

The 2010/2011 class of Community Builders of Greene County was sponsored by the following organizations and businesses: Community Foundation of Greene County (Fiscal Sponsor), First Federal Savings and Loan Association of Greene County (Financial Management Session Sponsor), Greene County Human Services (Introduction to Leadership Session Sponsor), RJ LeeGroup, Inc. (Facility Sponsor), and an anonymous donor. Additionally, the following organizations provided sponsorships for one or more employees or board members to participate in the Community Builders series: AMI, Inc., Community Action Southwest, Greene County Human Services, and SPHS Care.

Local leaders serving on the Community Builders steering committee in 2010/2011 were Karen Bennett, Director, Greene County Department of Human Services; Darlene Bigler, Executive Director, Community Action Southwest; Sarah Brandstetter, Coordinator, Bonner Scholar Program at Waynesburg University; Dr. Nancy Davis, Energy Industry Liaison, Greene County Education Center of WCCC; Gwendolyn Kiste, Community Builder graduate and Community Builder of the Year 2009; Melody Longstreth, Executive Director, Waynesburg Chamber of Commerce, Bettie Stammerjohn, Executive Director, Community Foundation of Greene County, Barbara Wise, Community Builder graduate 2004 & 2005; and Carolyn Wissenbach, Greene County Cooperative Extension Office.

The eighth series of Community Builders of Greene County will begin September 12, 2011. The program will meet on the 2 nd and 4 th Monday through February 2012 (except December) from 5:30-8:30 each evening. For more information on Community Builders of Greene County call 724-627-2010, or email cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Community Builders 2010/2011 program graduates from left to right are: Mary Trauth, Becky Whoolery, Caroline Kiger, James Cherry, John Agostinelli, Shelia Fullerton, Scott Roberts, Jenny Robinson, Karen Hoy and Kable Dale (and son). Audrey Jones is not pictured.

Conversation with Grantmakers (6/6/2011)

A Conversation with Grantmakers will be held on Wednesday, June 22 in Waynesburg. Sponsored by the Community Foundation of Greene County, the program will be held from 1:30 – 3:30 PM at the Waynesburg University Stover Campus Center (3 rd floor).

The session will feature representatives from local and regional foundations and corporate grantmaking programs that support programs in southwestern Pennsylvania. The Conversation with Grantmakers is open to all individuals who are representing nonprofit organizations of all types and sizes, and other members of the community who work with, or are interested in learning about grants to benefit Greene County programs and activities.

To register for the event please call 724-627-2010 or email cfgcpa@gmail.com. There is no fee to attend the Conversation with Grantmakers, but registration is required to ensure adequate handouts.

The featured speaker for the afternoon will be Mark Bazzilla of the PNC Charitable Trusts. Mr. Bazzilla will provide information about grant opportunities through the PNC Charitable Trusts and the PNC Foundation. Additionally, Bettie Stammerjohn of the Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) will be available to speak about CFGC’s various grant opportunities for nonprofit organizations and school programs. A third speaker is not yet confirmed.

For more information about Conversation with Funders contact the CFGC office at 724-627-2010.

Community Foundation Announces Summer Grant Opportunity (5/5/11)

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently announced that grant applications will be accepted until June 15, 2011 for the first discretionary and field of interest grant round of 2011.

CFGC seeks to fund organizations and ideas that will have a significant and lasting impact on Greene County, its residents, infrastructure and future. The Foundation expects to award five to seven grants not to exceed $1,000. Successful grant awards will be announced in late July for projects beginning after August 1.

Eligible applicants include nonprofit, charitable, tax-exempt organizations (recognized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code), educational institutions and schools, and government organizations whose purposes and programs benefit Greene County residents.

Proposed projects may include any one or more of the following broad priorities: Arts, Culture & Humanities; Education; Children, Youth & Families; Community and Economic Development; Environment; Health & Fitness; Human Services; and, Religious & Faith Based. Applicants do not need to identify the specific grant priority.

T o apply for a grant, applicants should prepare a proposal narrative, not to exceed three (3) pages, that includes a brief background about the organization and mission; a description of the proposed project, including project goals, objectives and outcomes, the need for the project and need for funds to support the project, a description of how the grant award will be used (budget description), and how the project will be evaluated. A separate line-item budget that includes total project costs and proposed grant costs must be attached, but does not count toward the 3-page proposal narrative. All applications must include the CFGC Common Grant Application Cover Sheet which is available on our website.

Additionally, a copy of the organization’s IRS Letter of Determination and a list of the organization’s Board of Directors, including addresses and affiliations must be included. Applicants may attach other supporting documentation that describes the project and organization.

Please review the grant guidelines, application procedures and forms which are available on the Foundation website at http://www.cfgcpa.org for more specific information.

Grant applications must be received in the CFGC Office no later than 4:00 PM on June 15, 2011. Facsimile or other electronic submissions will not be accepted. Information about the grants and application process is available on the Foundation’s website at www.cfgcpa.org. For additional information, contact the Foundation office at 724-627-2010, or e-mail cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Scholarship to Benefit Seniors at Carmichaels and Mapletown High Schools (3/23/11)

A new scholarship is being established at the Community Foundation of Greene County.

Beginning this spring, The William and Shirley Hanley Memorial Scholarship will provide two $1,000 scholarships – one for a senior graduating from Carmichaels Area High School and one for a senior graduating from Mapletown High School. Students must be planning to attend a four-year college or university and participate in an interview.. The scholarship awards will be used to help defray the cost of books, school supplies and, if money is available, reduce student loans.

The William and Shirley Hanley Memorial Scholarship was started by Dorothy Hanley in memory of her parents, William and Shirley. The Hanleys raised seven children in the Nemacolin area where William worked many years as a Superintendent for the Buckeye Coal Company.

Talking about her decision to establish the scholarship at the Community Foundation of Greene County, Hanley recalled how her father was an advocate of higher education and encouraged her and her brothers and sisters to go to college. “I watched how my parents sacrificed to provide for their family and I knew that an education would give me the opportunity to succeed in the world,” she said. “Paying for my education was the struggle of course. I was able to cover the tuition each year, but I always struggled when it came to paying for my books and supplies. This is the reason why I want the scholarship to go towards books first and then student loans.”

Giving back to the community where she grew up was an easy decision for Hanley. “My parents were very dedicated to their family and instilled in each of us a strong work ethic and a sense of community,” said Hanley. She recalled how her parents participated with various charities such as the Corner Cupboard Food Bank in Waynesburg. “They never sought attention for their work and acts of kindness,” she noted, “and they would be humbled by the idea of this fund being established in their memory.”

While Hanley lives and works in Chicago, she also maintains a home in Greene County enabling her to keep close ties with family still living in Greene County. In addition to some of her siblings, she has several nieces and nephews in the area: Brianna and Jocelyn Tsosie, Josh and Nick Hanley, and Kyle, Abigail and Braden McIntire.

In many ways, the scholarship is as much a legacy for her nieces and nephews as it is for Hanley’s parents. “My parents passed away before many of their grandchildren got to know them,” noted Hanley. “My hope is that this scholarship will forever be a link between my parents and their grandchildren. When I am too old to participate in this fund, the responsibility will be passed along to my nieces and nephews. They will always have a connection to their grandparents and they will forever have a connection to Greene County.”

Students interested in applying for The William and Shirley Hanley Memorial Scholarship this spring should contact their guidance counselor at either Carmichaels Area Junior/Senior High School or Mapletown High School. Information is also available on the Community Foundation of Greene County website, www.cfgcpa.org. Scholarship applications and supporting documentation must be received in the CFGC office by April 20, 2011. Students applying for the scholarship must participate in an interview with the scholarship committee. Students will be called to schedule a time for the interview following receipt of their application.

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC), a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages $2.7 million in assets through 50 permanent endowed and restricted funds. For more information, contact the CFGC office by phone at 724-627-2010, or email cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Community Foundation Offers Grant Writing Workshop (3/18/11)

A grant writing workshop will be held in Waynesburg on May 5 and 12 through the Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC).

Grant Writing 101 is a two-part, hands-on grant writing workshop for staff and board members of nonprofit organizations and other interested individuals who want to learn how to prepare good proposals for their nonprofit projects. (Click here for Registration Form)

The workshop will be held in Conference Room of the Pennsylvania CareerLink office at the corner of High Street and Washington Street in Waynesburg (across from the courthouse). Each session will begin at 5:30 pm. A light meal and refreshments is included.

CFGC is sponsoring the workshop to provide nonprofits and individuals in the County with access to high caliber grant workshops without having to leave the community or take time from work.

According to Bettie Stammerjohn, Executive Director of the Foundation, the six hour seminar will help both aspiring and experienced grant writers learn how to prepare and write letters of inquiry and grant proposals for funding from foundations, corporations, and other private donors. “Over the past year, several individuals and organizations expressed interest in learning more about the grant writing process but had limited time and financial resources to attend the workshops in Pittsburgh,” said Stammerjohn.

Stammerjohn hopes that the evening workshop will encourage board members and other interested individuals who can’t take time from their day jobs to attend. “Some of our smaller nonprofits can’t afford to pay someone to write grants for their organization, so they rely on volunteer board members, or program staff,” said Stammerjohn. “This seminar will help provide the nuts and bolts, practice for these individuals to become more comfortable with writing grants. It will also help others with more grant experience to hone their writing skills and learn new techniques.”

The workshop will be taught by Teresa Gregory, CFRE, who teaches grant writing as an Assistant Professor in the Sports, Arts & Entertainment Management program at Point Park University. Previously, she was the Director of Foundation and Government Grant Seeking at Robert Morris University. Over her 25 year career, she has directed campaigns of $200,000 to $20 million for a wide variety of organizations, including major research universities, professional theaters, museums, and small grassroots organizations. She is an active member of the Western Pennsylvania chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. .

There is a registration fee of $65 per person for the two-day seminar. Space is limited to 25 people.

For more information, or to register, please contact the CFGC office at 724-627-2010. Registration information can also be downloaded from the CFGC website at www.cfgcpa.org.

Click Here for Registration Form

CFGC Announces Special 10th Anniversary Grant Competition (2/22/2011)

The Board of Directors of the Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently announced a special grant competition to celebrate the Foundation’s 10 th Anniversary. One $10,000 grant will be awarded to a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.

“This will be the largest discretionary grant the foundation has awarded and we look forward to seeing the positive impact on the community,” said Lucy Northrop, chair of the Foundation’s Grantmaking Committee. “We are fortunate to have many generous donors whose contributions allow us to not only award yearly grants, but who make this 10 th Anniversary Grant possible.”

Applications for the 10 th Anniversary Grant are being accepted until April 20 for the grant which will be awarded in June 2011. (Click here for Guidelines and Application)

The CFGC 10 th Anniversary Grant priorities include newer and innovative programs, emerging charitable opportunities and/or services not presently offered, and/or projects for the purpose of enhancing the quality of life in our community.

Because CFGC is a community foundation that exists principally for the enhancement of services and programs to the residents within the boundaries of Greene County, eligible projects must have a direct benefit to residents of Greene County. Preference will be given to projects that have the potential of positively affecting broad segments of Greene County’s population.

Eligible applicants must be nonprofit, charitable tax-exempt organizations recognized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and located within Greene County, or provide programs and services to the residents of Greene County. Educational, government and church/church-related organizations are eligible.

A special application package for the 10 th Anniversary Grant is available to download on the Foundation’s website (www.cfgcpa.org), or by calling the CFGC office at 724-627-2010; or email at cfgcpa@gmail.com.

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC), a private, non-profit 501c3 organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages $2.7 million in assets through 50 permanent endowed and restricted funds.

CFGC Announces Rocky Doman Memorial scholarship Applications (2/10/2011)

The Board of Directors of the Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently announced there will be one $1,000 scholarship award from the Rocky Doman Memorial Fund this year. Applications are due April 1 and the winner will be announced in late May. The scholarship will be awarded during the recipient’s high school awards ceremony at the end of the school year.

The Rocky Doman Memorial Scholarship Fund was created in honor of Rock A. Doman. Rock, a 2000 graduate of Carmichaels Area High School, was an outstanding high school football player who won numerous awards and accolades. He is one of only four Greene County players to rush for 4,000 yards.

To be eligible for the scholarship a candidate must be a male or female senior at one of the Greene County high schools, must pursue a degree at an accredited two-year or four-year institution, be a standout athlete of any sport and be team player and demonstrate a humble spirit. Additional scholarship criteria, guidelines and forms are available on the CFGC website (www.cfgcpa.org) or through the high school guidance offices.

Rock’s mother, Patti Doman, hopes the award helps a humble student with the necessities of college. “I hope it goes to a humble person like Rocky and helps him or her with their expenses for college such as tuition, books or other needs,” said Mrs. Doman. “I know Rocky would be so honored this could be done for someone.”

The scholarship award is made possible through the contributions of many individuals, businesses and corporations who participated in the Rocky Doman Memorial Scholarship Golf Outing. The golf outing, held this past August, raised more than $9,000 which the Doman family turned over to the Community Foundation who will oversee the scholarship fund. According to Mrs. Doman, the family was touched by the overwhelming support and participation of all who helped make the fundraiser such a success. Another golf outing is planned for August 2011 raise additional funds to permanently endow the scholarship fund at CFGC.

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC), a private, non-profit 501c3 organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages $2.7 million in assets through nearly 50 different funds. For more information about the Community Foundation contact Bettie Stammerjohn by phone at 724-627-2010, email cfgc@gmail.com, or visit www.cfgcpa.org.

Community FoundationAccepting Applications for the Army Spec. Gregory A. Cox Memorial Scholarship (2/10/2011)

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently announced they will be accepting applications for a $1,000 scholarship award from the Army Specialist Gregory A. Cox Memorial Scholarship Fund. Applications are due April 1 and the scholarship recipient will be announced in late May. The scholarship will be awarded during the recipient’s school award ceremony at the end of the 2010-2011 school year.

The scholarship is open to any m ale or female graduating senior who is a permanent resident of Greene County. The student must be planning to attend a two- or four-year postsecondary institution, have a financial need, and plan to major in a field of study leading to a career in public safety (such as police, fire, emergency medical personnel, etc.) or public service (such as education, health related, emergency management, etc.) and/OR participate in the Reserve Officer Training Corps (R.O.T.C.) of any service branch. The scholarship may be used for tuition, room & board, fees and/or books

For more details about the application process and application form, students should check with their school guidance counselor, or download the guidelines from the CFGC website www.cfgcpa.org/endowed.html, or call the CFGC office at 724-627-2010.

The Army Spc. Gregory Cox Memorial Scholarship was established by the family of Gregory A. Cox as a tribute to their beloved son and brother and as a means to help students who reside in Greene County and who plan to enter the Reserve Officer Training Corp (ROTC) or enter a career in public safety or public service (not including political service) to fund their college education. Cox, lifelong resident of Carmichaels, Pennsylvania, was a graduate of All Saints School in Masontown, Pennsylvania and Geibel Catholic High School in Connellsville, Pennsylvania. On September 27, 2004, while serving on active duty in “Operation Iraqi Freedom,” Army Spc. Cox was killed in a Humvee accident. Cox was twenty-one years old at the time of his death.

The scholarship award is made possible through the contributions of many individuals, businesses and corporations who participate in the Hero’s Run/Walk sponsored by the Greene County Department of Parks and Recreation each year.

Community Foundation Announces Fall 2010 Grant Awards (12/23/2010)

The Board of Directors of the Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently announced year end-2010 grant awards totaling $19,092 to local organizations and schools.

Seven were awarded from the Forever Greene Fund which was established by the CFGC board of directors with unrestricted moneys, including the Francis (Bob) Bradford Fund. The Forever Greene Fund addresses a broad range of current and future needs. The Foundation evaluates all aspects of community well-being — arts and culture, community development, education, environment, health and human services, etc. — and awards grants to select projects and programs.

The following organizations received grants from the Forever Greene Fund.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh - $2,500 to support the One-to-One Community Based Mentoring project in Greene County.

Cornerstone Care - $3,000 for the Reach Out and Read program that will provide books for children during well-child visits at the Greensboro, Mt. Morris and Rogersville offices.

Eva K. Bowlby Public Library - $1,250 for the One World – Many Students, summer learning program for 2011.

Girl Scouts of Western Pennsylvania - $1,500 to develop and implement Girl Scout program kits for leaders of Greene County troops.

Southwest Training Services, Inc. - $2,050 to upgrade six laptops used as part of the mobile computer center at the Greene County Pennsylvania CareerLink® Center.

Washington County Literacy Council - $1,000 match to provide the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program for children in Greene County.

Washington-Greene Blind Association - $1,500 to provide vision screenings and eyeglasses for children in Greene County.

Additionally, three grants were awarded from the CFGC Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) Public School Innovative Curriculum Fund. Grants to public schools from EITC contributions support innovative, advanced, academic instruction, programs or other activities integrated with instructional programs of public schools. The EITC Public School Innovative Curriculum Fund is supported by contributions from CONSOL Energy Inc. and EQT Resources.

The following schools were awarded EITC Innovative Curriculum Grants.

Southeastern Greene School District - $1,792 to purchase the enVision Groundwater Model Simulation as part of the science curriculum for Grades 9-12 at Mapletown Junior/Senior High School.

Central Greene School District - $2,500 to implement a Natural Gas Exploration, Production and Geology Curriculum for Waynesburg Central High School

EconomicsPennsylvania - $2,000 to provide the Stock Market Game, a financial literacy curriculum for Kindergarten through Grade 12 students in the Carmichaels, Central Greene, Jefferson-Morgan and West Greene school districts.

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC), a private, non-profit 501c3 organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages more than $2.4 million in assets through 50 different permanent endowed or restricted funds which make grants back to the community. For more information about the Community Foundation, contact Bettie Stammerjohn by phone at 724-627-2010, email cfgc@gmail.com, or visit www.cfgcpa.org.

New Tax Bill Includes Help for Charities (12/21/2010)

Provision Permits Tax-free Charitable Transfers from IRAs
Waynesburg, Pennsylvania – As part of Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization and Job Creation Act of 2010, legislators passed a two-year extension of Charitable IRA legislation, making it easier for Americans to give to causes they care about. The Charitable IRA provision, first enacted in 2006, has the power to help local charities strengthen their communities at a time when it is needed most. The extension goes through 2011.

Millions of Americans continue to save pre-tax dollars in individual retirement accounts (IRAs). Thanks to regular investments and long-term returns, an estimated $4.2 trillion is invested in IRAs. The new law allows taxpayers 70 ½ and older to share the wealth by giving retirement savings directly to charity—and bypassing income tax.

This new law is important to local charities that continue to build community in an uncertain economy. The tax benefit expires December 31, 2011.

“It is a win-win—for people who would rather give to charity than pay taxes and the nonprofit organizations they choose to support,” said Bettie Stammerjohn, Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) executive director.

Thanks to decades of deliberate saving, some of today’s retirees have more money in their IRAs than they need for daily living expenses and long-term care. Charitable individuals and couples have expressed an interest in giving the funds to charity, but income tax must be paid on all withdrawals, which reduces the value of the gift. Others are concerned about designating their children as IRA beneficiaries, since that may draw unintended tax consequences.

“For larger estates, a good portion of IRA wealth goes to estate taxes and income taxes of beneficiaries,” Stammerjohn said. “Experts estimate heirs may receive less than 50% of IRA assets that pass through estates.”

A provision in the new federal law extends an option: transferring IRA assets directly to charity. By going directly to a qualified public charity such as the Community Foundation of Greene County, the money is not included in the IRA owner’s income and—most important—is not taxed, preserving the full amount for charitable purposes.

New Legislation Provides for Charity
During 2010 and 2011 only, holders of traditional IRAs who are at least 70½ years old can make direct charitable transfers up to $100,000 per year. A single person can transfer $200,000 free from federal tax; a married couple can transfer up to $400,000 free from federal tax from separate accounts. The Community Foundation of Greene County can help donors execute the transfers and choose from several charitable fund options for their gift. Donor Advised Funds do not qualify for tax-free IRA transfers.

“This really is a limited-time offer: the window is open now, but it may close in another year,” said Stammerjohn. “For anyone interested in establishing a permanent legacy in this community, this is the opportunity of a lifetime to make the gift of a lifetime.”

Through philanthropic services, strategic grantmaking and community leadership, The Community Foundation of Greene County helps people support the causes they care about, now and for generations to come.  

Gift of a Lifetime: Shopping for Charity
These days, having more retirement money than you need is a great problem to have, and one that’s now easier to solve. But generous IRA donors still face multiple options for their gifts: Support the entire community? Underwrite a special cause? Shore up a favorite charity? Here are three top charitable fund picks of Bettie Stammerjohn, Community Foundation of Greene County executive director.

 Forever Greene Fund—Meeting ever-changing community needs.
IRA transfers to the Forever Greene Fund address a broad range of current and future needs. The Community Foundation of Greene County evaluates all aspects of community well-being—arts and culture, community development, education, environment, health and human services—and awards strategic grants to select projects and programs.

Stammerjohn: “For people who care deeply about this community and its people, this fund is an excellent way to address our most pressing needs, today and tomorrow.”

Field of Interest Fund —Connecting personal values to high-impact opportunities.
IRA transfers to Field of Interest Funds allow donors to target gifts to causes important to them: arts, AIDS services, urban education, neighborhood revitalization, youth welfare and more. The Community Foundation of Greene County awards grants to community organizations and programs addressing the donor’s specific interest area.

Stammerjohn: “For those who are particularly passionate about a single cause, Field of Interest Funds provide strategic, lasting support—even as needs change over time.”

Designated Fund —Helping local organizations sustain and grow.
IRA transfers to Designated Funds allow donors to support the good work of a specific nonprofit organization—a senior center, museum or any qualifying nonprofit charitable organization.

Stammerjohn: “For people who want to help secure the future of their favorite charities, our endowed Designated Funds give nonprofits a steady stream of income, plus planned giving and investment management services.”

Leah Abbe Zwerver Fund Established at the Community Foundation (8/12/2010)

In 2008, when Leah Abbe Zwerver’s young life was cut short by an accident, she left behind a desire to excite youth through educational and growth opportunities.

Now, through the gifts of her family and friends, Leah’s legacy will help Greene County youth have access to the artistic, cultural and environmental experiences which Leah had advocated for years.

The Leah Abbe Zwerver Fund has been established at the Community Foundation of Greene County by her parents, David Zwerver and Pam Abbe, and sister, Shea.

As a permanent, endowed fund, the Leah Abbe Zwerver Fund will provide annual grants to the Student Services Office at Waynesburg University. The University will use the grants to provide one-on-one cultural and environmental experiences between university students and public school students through university sponsored excursions. Activities may include helping Waynesburg University students take elementary and middle school youth from Greene County on trips to museums, theaters, sporting events, concerts, etc.

A native of Greene County, Leah was a 2003 honors graduate of Waynesburg Central High School. In 2007, she graduated from Smith College in North Hampton, Massachusetts with a bachelor’s degree in Education and Child Studies. As a college student, Leah had the opportunity to study education in Denmark and live for a summer in Northern Italy. She taught in New York City, Massachusetts, and Greene County.

According to her mother, Pam Abbe, Leah was passionate in her love for education and Greene County. Her special childhood saying, “Love all bodies,” is representative of her outlook on life. Leah invested herself in her students and felt strongly about providing opportunities for exploration and discovery.

“Establishing this fund in Leah’s name will help keep alive her desire to share her love of learning and provide educational opportunities to children and youth of her hometown community,” said Abbe. “Leah would be so pleased to see children participate in new experiences, share an outing with a university student, explore our region and, simply, get excited about learning!”

The Leah Abbe Zwerver Fund is one of more than 40 permanent and restricted funds at the Community Foundation of Greene County. For more information about the Leah Abbe Zwerver Fund, or other funds, visit the CFGC website at www.cfgcpa.org, or contact the CFGC office by phone at 724-627-2010, or by email, cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Community Foundation Accepting Applications for Pre-k Scholarships (8/2/2010)

Parents of Greene County children attending approved pre-kindergarten programs may apply for a scholarship to help with tuition costs.

The Community Foundation of Greene County is accepting pre-kindergarten scholarship applications for the 2010/2011 school year. According to Bettie Stammerjohn, executive director of the Foundation, the Greene County EITC Pre-K Scholarship program provides children and families with an opportunity to participate in a quality Pre-K program which gives children a good start toward being successful in school and beyond.

Families may apply for a scholarship, which is paid directly to an approved Pre-Kindergarten or pre-school provider, to help offset tuition and fees for the child. Eligible children must be living in Greene County, be at least 3 years old and be registered to attend an approved Pre-K program. Additionally, household income must not exceed $50,000 with an additional $10,000 allowed for each dependent child in the family (see the table below.)

"This scholarship opportunity offsets the cost of tuition to help make Pre-K programs more affordable, even for middle income families,” said Mrs. Stammerjohn. “It really benefits both the families and the pre-k programs in our county.

The deadline for applications for the 2010/2011 school year is August 20 th. Completed applications must be received by August 20 th in order to be considered for a full-year (both fall and spring semesters) scholarship. Applications received after August 20 will be considered in the January 2011 application round for the spring semester.

Application forms are available on the CFGC website at http://www.cfgcpa.org/eitcprek.html, or from your preschool provider.

Children must be registered for pre-school before applying for a scholarship. Participating preschool programs are: All Saints Regional School, Masontown; Building Blocks Preschool, Carmichaels; Calvary Chapel Preschool, Fredericktown, Christian Sandbox Preschool, First Baptist Church, Waynesburg; Crystal’s Children’s Center, Rogersville; Growing Up Greene Learning Center at the Greene County Career & Technology Center, Waynesburg; Here Wee Grow Preschool, Nazarene Church, Waynesburg; Little Bears Preschool, Carmichaels; Nanny’s Creative Learning Center, Waynesburg; Open Door Christian Preschool, Waynesburg; Rainbow’s End Learning Center, Waynesburg; and St. Ann’s Catholic Church Preschool, Waynesburg.

The Pre-K scholarship program is made possible by contributions to the Community Foundation of Greene County from businesses participating in the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC). EITC Pre-K Sponsors in 2009 were EQT, Inc., Highmark/Keystone West, PNC Financial Services Group, and UPMC.

For more information about the Pre-K Scholarship program, or the EITC program, call the Community Foundation at 724-627-2010, or email at cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Gregory Cox Scholarship Awarded to Waynesburg Central High School Student (7/1/2010)

A Waynesburg Central High School senior was the first recipient of the Army Specialist Gregory A. Cox Memorial Scholarship award. The Community Foundation of Greene County presented Julie Diane Philips with the $1,000 scholarship at the Waynesburg Central Awards ceremony in May.

Miss Phillips, daughter of Kevin and Sheila Phillips of Spraggs, plans to attend Penn State, University Park campus as a Nutritional Biology major and eventually attend medical school to become a pediatrician. While at Penn State she also plans to join the Air Force ROTC program. As student at Waynesburg Central High School, Phillips maintained a 4.0 grade average while taking in pre-college and advancement coursework. Additionally, she was active in extracurricular activities including soccer, track, marching band, National Honor Society, and Student Council among many other clubs, as well as working with pre-k children and tutoring elementary school students.

The Army Specialist Gregory A. Cox Memorial Scholarship was established at the Community Foundation of Greene County to assist a Greene County student attending college, participating in Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) and/or planning to enter a career in public safety or public service. The scholarship is funded with proceeds from the Greene River Trail Heroes Run/Walk, along with contributions from family and friends.

Army Specialist Gregory Cox was the first Greene County serviceman to die in the fighting in Iraq. Born July 6, 1983, a son of John E. and Mary Anne Cox of Carmichaels, Greg was only 21 when he died as a result of injuries when the Humvee in which he was riding overturned near Balad, Iraq. He was assigned to the 1 st Infantry Division.

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC), a private, non-profit 501c3 organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages more than $2.0 million in assets through nearly 40 different funds. Gifts made through the Community Foundation are tax deductible. For more information about the Community Foundation, or how to make a gift, contact Bettie Stammerjohn by phone at 724-627-2010, email cfgc@gmail.com, or visit www.cfgcpa.org.

CFGC Awards First Rocky Doman Memorial Scholarship (6/29/2010)

The first Rocky Doman Memorial Scholarship was awarded to a senior at Central Greene High School by the Community Foundation of Greene County. John Sinnott, son of Rodney and Stephanie Phillips of Waynesburg, received the $1,000 scholarship.

Rocky’s parents, Bob and Patti Doman, were on hand to present the award to Sinnott.

The Rocky Doman Memorial Scholarship Fund was created at the Community Foundation of Greene County in honor of Rock A. Doman. Rock, a 2000 graduate of Carmichaels Area High School, was an outstanding high school football player who won numerous awards and accolades. He was one of only four Greene County players to rush for 4,000 yards. The scholarship is open to a senior male or female student from Greene County who is planning to pursue a degree at a two- or four-year institution of higher education, is a standout athlete, and demonstrates the qualities of a team player with a humble spirit.

Sinnott played football and basketball during all four years at Central Greene High. He was a member of the varsity football squad for three years and during his tenure was named Rookie of the Year, Offensive Most Valuable Player, All County 2 years, and Interstate Conference All Star 3years. Sinnott was also received the Lee Baker Memorial Award for Most Outstanding Player and played in the 2010 Tri-County All Star game in Jun3 2010. During his senior year, he rushed 1023 yards and led in tackles.

As a basketball player, he was named Rookie of the Year and received awards for most rebounds, highest field goal percentage, leading scorer and Most Valuable Player. According to one of his coaches, Sinnott always placed team goals ahead of his individual goals and was very supportive of his teammates. He was humble in victory and gracious in defeat.

Sinnott also volunteered his time serving as a coach for local youth basketball teams, and helping the elderly at Golden Living Center. He plans to attend Waynesburg University and major in Exercise Science.

The Rocky Doman Memorial Scholarship is made possible through the contributions of many individuals, businesses and corporations who participated in the Rocky Doman Memorial Scholarship Golf Outing. The golf outing, held this past August, raised more than $9,000 which the Doman family turned over to the Community Foundation who will oversee the scholarship fund. Another golf outing is planned for August 2010 to help raise the $25,000 needed to permanently endow the scholarship fund at CFGC.

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC), a private, non-profit 501c3 organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages $2.0 million in assets through nearly 40 different funds. Gifts made through the Community Foundation are tax deductible. For more information about the Community Foundation, or how to make a gift, contact Bettie Stammerjohn by phone at 724-627-2010, email cfgc@gmail.com, or visit www.cfgcpa.org.

Community Builders Honored at Achievement Ceremony (6/29/2010)

Graduates of the sixth annual Community Builders of Greene County leadership program were honored at a ceremony in March at The Stover Campus Center of Waynesburg University.

Eight Greene County residents received the Community Builders Nonprofit Leadership certification for completing the course on management and leadership of nonprofit organizations. Each 2010 graduate received a framed certificate, a community builders pin, a hard hat and a chocolate hammer.

Community Builders provides training for persons interested in volunteering their time and talents to support Greene County organizations.

Connie Grimes, Community Bank, Waynesburg branch manager, provided a keynote address for the achievement ceremony, sharing her philosophy of giving back to the community with the graduates. Mrs. Grimes is a leader in the community, serving and having served on numerous boards and committees, including CFGC, Habitat for Humanity, Southside Waynesburg Rising (Elm Street Project), Waynesburg Chamber of Commerce, Ways To Work Loan Committee (of the Family Services of Western PA), the Greene County Career & Technology Center Advisory Board, The Bethlehem Cemetery Association, Calvary Baptist Church, and the Ten Mile Baptist Association.

The eight local residents who earned the Nonprofit Leadership certification were: Pamela Abbe, Renee Donofrio, Melissa Gorby, Karina Graziani, Gwendolyn Kiste, Doug Saesan, Kathy Saesan, and Linda Winegar.

The nonprofit leadership track explores nonprofit governance and boards of directors, financial management, communication and team work, strategic planning, public relations, grantwriting, fundraising and volunteer engagement. This track is geared to helping citizens become better volunteers with non-profit organizations in the community, whether it be through activities such as serving on non-profit boards, volunteering on fundraising committees, or providing volunteer services.

Local leaders serving on the Community Builders steering committee in 2009/2010 were Chuck Baily, President, Baily Insurance; Karen Bennett, Director, Greene County Department of Human Services; Darlene Bigler, Executive Director, Community Action Southwest; Dr. Nancy Davis, Coordinator for Workforce Development Program, Greene County Education Center of WCCC; Joy Eggleston, Senior Public Affairs Officer, Southwest Regional Medical Center; Darlene Urban Garrett, Community & Economic Development Associates; Melody Longstreth, Executive Director, Waynesburg Chamber of Commerce, Bettie Stammerjohn, Executive Director, Community Foundation of Greene County, Barbara Wise, Community Builder graduate 2004 & 2005; and Carolyn Wissenbach, Greene County Cooperative Extension Office.

The 2009/2010 class of Community Builders of Greene County was sponsored in part by the following organizations and businesses: Community Foundation of Greene County, Community Action Southwest, RJ LeeGroup, Inc., Southwest Regional Medical Center, Waynesburg University and an anonymous donor. Additionally, the following organizations provided sponsorship for one or more employees or board members to participate in the Community Builders series: Community Action Southwest and Southwest Regional Medical Center.

The seventh series of Community Builders Nonprofit Track classes will begin in September 2010. For more information on Community Builders of Greene County call 724-627-2010, or email cfgcpa@gmail.com.

ARTS & CULTURE FUND CONCERT FEATURES NATIONALLY ACCLAIMED MUSICIANS (5/6/2010)

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) is sponsoring an organ concert to benefit the Arts & Culture Fund at the Foundation.

The Arts & Culture Concert will be held Wednesday, May 19 beginning at 7:00 PM in the First Presbyterian Church at 169 West College Street in Waynesburg.

The concert, featuring Aaron Engebreth, baritone, and Heinrich Christensen, organist, will highlight the works of American composer Daniel Pinkham, along with works by André Campra, Marcel Dupré and Calvin Hampton.

The program will be a mixture of music for voice and also for solo organ. The repertoire is drawn from both sacred and secular works ranging from the mid-17th Century French baroque to some well-known traditional hymns to some late 20th century works by Daniel Pinkham.

Engebreth and Christensen, based in Boston, Massachusetts, have performed together throughout the United States and abroad.

Engebreth, acclaimed for his “exemplary diction and rich baritone voice,” maintains an active solo career in opera, oratorio, and recital, and has devoted considerable time and energy to the performance of new music, often collaborating with composers. He began a multi-disc project in 2009 recording the Complete Songs of Daniel Pinkham with the Florestan Recital Project on Florestan Records. He has served on the music faculty of Tufts University and the Boston Conservatory and is an artistic director of the Florestan Recital Project.

Christensen, a native of Denmark, studied at the Royal Conservatory in Århus and with Oliver Latry in Paris, then went on to work as music director in Malmö, Sweden. He came to the US in 1998 to study with James David Christie at the Boston Conservatory. He was the Affiliate Organist of historic King’s Chapel and was appointed Music Director following Daniel Pinkham’s retirement. He has been heard in numerous radio broadcasts.

Featured composer Daniel Pinkham (1923-2006) was Music Director Emeritus of historic King’s Chapel in Boston where he actively served from 1958 until 2000. Pinkham was a prolific and versatile composer whose catalog includes four symphonies and other works for large ensembles; cantatas and oratorios; concertos and other works for solo instrument and orchestra for piano, piccolo, trumpet, violin, harp and three organ concertos; theatre works and chamber operas; chamber music; electronic music; and twenty documentary television film scores.

The concert will benefit the Arts & Culture Fund at the Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC). The Arts & Culture Fund provides grants to nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, including educational institutions, to support artistic and cultural programs and activities for persons of all ages in Greene County. Funded projects have included, The Art Blast on the Mon, and the Creative

The Community Foundation of Greene County( CFGC), a private, non-profit 501c3 organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages $2.0 million in assets through nearly 40 different funds. Gifts made through the Community Foundation are tax deductible.

For more information about the concert or the Arts and Culture Fund please contact CFGC by phone at 724-627-2010, by email at cfgcpa@gmail.com, or on our website at www.cfgcpa.org.

CFGC GRANT OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE FOR SPRING 2010 (4/20/2010)

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently announced that grant applications will be accepted for the first round of grants in 2010.

CFGC seeks to fund organizations and ideas that will have a significant and lasting impact on Greene County, its residents, infrastructure and future. The Foundation expects to award five to seven grants not to exceed $1,000.

Eligible applicants must be nonprofit, charitable (recognized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code), tax-exempt organizations whose purposes and programs benefit Greene County residents. Educational institutions and governmental units are also eligible.

Proposed projects may include any one or more of the following broad priorities: Arts, Culture & Humanities; Education; Children, Youth & Families; Community and Economic Development; Environment; Health & Fitness; Human Services; and, Religious & Faith Based. Applicants do not need to identify the specific grant priority.

T o apply for a grant, applicants should prepare a proposal narrative, not to exceed three (3) pages, that includes a brief background about the organization and mission; a description of the proposed project, including project goals, objectives and outcomes, the need for the project and need for funds to support the project, a description of how the grant award will be used (budget description), and how the project will be evaluated. A separate line-item budget that includes total project costs and proposed grant costs must be attached, but does not count toward the 3-page proposal narrative. All applications must include the CFGC Common Grant Application Cover Sheet.

Additionally, a copy of the organization’s IRS Letter of Determination and a list of the organization’s Board of Directors, including addresses and affiliations must be included. Applicants may attach other supporting documentation that describes the project and organization.

Please review the grant guidelines, application procedures and forms which are available on the Foundation website at http://www.cfgcpa.org for more specific information.

Grant applications must be postmarked no later than June 10, 2010 to the Community Foundation of Greene County, PO Box 768, Waynesburg, PA, 15370. Information about the grants and application process is available on the Foundation’s website at www.cfgcpa.org. For additional information, contact the Foundation office at 724-627-2010, or e-mail cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Information on the grant process will be available at a grant workshop scheduled for Thursday, May 13, from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Greene County Education Center of Westmoreland County Community College, located in Ever Greene Technology Park on Progress Drive, Waynesburg, PA. The workshop, hosted in conjunction with the Community Foundation of Fayette County, will also include information on grant opportunities through the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts and the Pennsylvania Humanities Council. The session is free and open to the public. Attendance confirmation is required for the workshop by calling CFGC at 724-627-2010 or CFFC at 724-427-8600.

GRANT INFORMATION WORKSHOPS PLANNED IN LOCAL COUNTIES (4/20/2010)

The Community Foundation of Fayette County ( CFFC) is hosting a series of grants workshops detailing funding opportunities from different agencies including the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, Pennsylvania Humanities Council and the Community Foundation of Greene County. Organizations or individuals located in Greene, Fayette or Washington Counties are eligible to apply for funding, and all sessions are free and open to the public. Attendance confirmation is required.

Information will be provided on applying for grants from the following agencies: Pennsylvania Council on the Arts - Partners in the Arts; Pennsylvania Council on the Arts - Artists in Education Residency Program; Pennsylvania Humanities Council ( PHC), and the Community Foundation of Greene County. A tutorial on how to use The Foundation Center to aid in your fundraising efforts will also be presented.

These sessions will focus on funding for regional non-profits, arts organizations, cultural and historical societies, visual artists, musicians, actors, performing arts presenters, and festival committees.

In Greene County, the event will be held on Thursday, May 13, from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Greene County Education Center of Westmoreland County Community College, located in Ever Greene Technology Park on Progress Drive, Waynesburg, PA.

In Fayette County, the workshop will be held on Friday, May 14, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at the Connellsville Cultural Trust Building, 502 South Pittsburgh Street, Connellsville, PA.

In Washington County, the presentation is scheduled for Wednesday, May 19, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. in the WashArts Studios, 9 West Beau Street, Washington, PA.

To register for any of these free workshops or for more information, please phone or e-mail Renee Couser at the Community Foundation of Fayette County, 724-437-8600 orrcouser@cffayettepa.org

The Pennsylvania Council on the Arts is a state agency in the Office of Governor. Created in 1966, the Council’s mission is to foster the excellence, diversity, and vitality of the arts in Pennsylvania, and to broaden the availability and appreciation of those arts throughout the Commonwealth.

CFGC ANNOUNCES GRANT WRITING WORKSHOP (3/18/2010)

A grant writing workshop will be held in Waynesburg on April 20 and 27 through the Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC). Grant Writing 101 is a two-part, hands-on grant writing workshop for staff and board members of nonprofit organizations and other interested individuals who want to learn how to prepare good proposals.

The workshop, sponsored in conjunction with the Bayer Center for Nonprofit Management, will be held in the conference room of the CareerLink Center in Waynesburg, PA starting at 5:30 pm each evening with a light dinner.

CFGC is sponsoring the workshop to provide nonprofits and individuals in the County with access to high caliber grant workshops without having to leave the community or take time from work.

According to Bettie Stammerjohn, Executive Director of the Foundation, the six hour seminar will help both aspiring and experienced grant writers learn how to prepare and write letters of inquiry and grant proposals for funding from foundations, corporations, and other private donors.

Stammerjohn hopes that the evening workshop will encourage board members and other interested individuals who can’t take time from their day jobs to attend. “Some of our smaller nonprofits can’t afford to pay someone to write grants for their organization, so they rely on volunteer board members, or program staff,” said Stammerjohn. “This seminar will help provide the nuts and bolts, practice for these individuals to become more comfortable with writing grants. It will also help others with more grant experience to hone their writing skills and learn new techniques.”

The workshop will be taught by Teresa Gregory, CFRE, who is the director of foundation and government grant seeking at Robert Morris University.

There is a registration fee of $60 per person for the two-day seminar. For more information, or to register, please contact the CFGC office at 724-627-2010, or check their website at www.cfgcpa.org. Click here to download the Grant Writing 101 Registration Form

Greene Academy Chapter DAR Contributes to Community Foundation’s Log Courthouse Fund (1/21/2010) 

Waynesburg, PA (January 21, 2010) – The Community Foundation of Greene County recently received a gift of five hundred dollars from the Greene Academy Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). The contribution is designated to support the Greene County Log Courthouse Fund in memory of Lena K. Dowlin.

Lena K. Dowlin was born in 1884, the only child of John Crawford Dowlin and Alice M. Huston. She never married and was very active in the Carmichaels Presbyterian Church and the Greene Academy Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution. At her death in 1969 at the age of 84, Miss Dowlin left a small bequeath to the Greene Academy DAR who opened a savings account in her memory.

According to Carol Harvey, Regent of the Greene Academy Chapter DAR, the members of the chapter decided to use those funds along with a small addition of money from their treasury to benefit the Greene County Log Courthouse. They chose the Log Courthouse Fund because the Log Courthouse is where the Genealogical Society is headquartered. The Genealogical Society preserves and protects many historical documents which help people trace their ancestry.

The Greene County Log Courthouse Fund was established at the Community Foundation in 2002 to provide for the upkeep and renovations of the Log Courthouse. It is a permanently endowed fund which means that gifts to the fund will provide a lasting legacy and source of ongoing support for future generations of Greene County residents because only a portion of the income generated from the investment of the fund is used.

The Greene County Log Courthouse Fund is just one of nearly 40 permanently endowed and restricted funds at the Community Foundation of Greene County.

The Community Foundation of Greene County, a private, non-profit 501c3 organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. Gifts made through the Community Foundation are tax deductible. For more information about the Community Foundation or how to make a gift contact Bettie Stammerjohn by phone at 724-627-2010, email cfgc@gmail.com, or visit www.cfgcpa.org.

GREENE COUNTY EXPLORES CHILD HUNGER PROGRAMS IN INFO SESSION (1/6/2010)

Waynesburg, PA (January 6, 2010) – The Community Foundation of Greene County will host an information session about the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), a summer federal meal program for children, on Wednesday, January 20, 2010, at the Greene County Education Center at Westmoreland County Community College from 9:00 am – 11:00am. Representatives from food service agencies, summer recreation programs, after school programs and other organizations that might be interested in learning about starting a summer feeding program in Greene County are invited to attend.

In 2007, Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank (GPCFB) published a “Gap Study” on SFSP usage in their 11-county service area (including Greene County), which showed that this uncapped federal program could be a vital tool in addressing hunger within Greene County’s most vulnerable population – children living in poverty. The study revealed that currently, only 16% of eligible children in southwestern Pennsylvania are accessing meals through this program. In Greene County, there were no eligible children being served due to a lack of sponsoring organizations.

The Summer Food Service Program reimburses sponsors that provide free breakfast and/or lunch meals to eligible children during the summer months, when school breakfast and lunch are not available.

During the informational session on January 20, GPCFB staff will discuss their outreach efforts to increase participation in the Summer Food Service Program across the region, and work with participants to identify opportunities in Greene County.

Please RSVP by sending an e-mail to cwinniewicz@pittsburghfoodbank.org or call 412-460-3663, ext. 409 by Tuesday, January 12, 2010.

CFGC ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE ARMY SPEC. GREGORY A. COX MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP (1/4/2010)

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently announced they will be accepting applications for a $1,000 scholarship award from the Army Specialist Gregory A. Cox Memorial Scholarship Fund. The scholarship will be awarded during the recipient’s high school award ceremony at the end of the 2009-2010 school year.

The scholarship is open to any male or female graduating senior who is a resident of Greene County and attending any accredited public or private high school program. The student must be planning to attend a two- or four-year postsecondary institution and participate in the Reserve Officer Training Corps (R.O.T.C.) of any service branch, or major in field of study leading to a career in public safety (such as police, fire, emergency medical personnel, etc.) and/or public service (such as education, health related, emergency management, etc.), and have a financial need. The scholarship may be used for tuition, room & board, fees and/or books.

For more details about the application process and application form, students should check with their school guidance counselor, or download the guidelines from the CFGC website www.cfgcpa.org/endowed.html, or call the CFGC office at 724-627-2010.

The Army Spc. Gregory Cox Memorial Scholarship was established by the family of Gregory A. Cox as a tribute to their beloved son and brother and as a means to help students who reside in Greene County and who plan to enter the Reserve Officer Training Corp (ROTC) or enter a career in public safety or public service (not including political service) to fund their college education. Cox, lifelong resident of Carmichaels, Pennsylvania, was a graduate of All Saints School in Masontown, Pennsylvania and Geibel Catholic High School in Connellsville, Pennsylvania. On September 27, 2004, while serving on active duty in “Operation Iraqi Freedom,” Army Spc. Cox was killed in a Humvee accident. Cox was twenty-one years old at the time of his death.

The scholarship award is made possible through the contributions of many individuals, businesses and corporations who participated in the Hero’s Run/Walk sponsored by the Greene County Department of Parks and Recreation each year.

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC), a private, non-profit 501c3 organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages $2.0 million in assets through nearly 40 different funds. Gifts made through the Community Foundation are tax deductible. For more information about the Community Foundation, or how to make a gift, contact Bettie Stammerjohn by phone at 724-627-2010, email cfgc@gmail.com, or visit www.cfgcpa.org.

CFGC ANNOUNCES WAYNESBURG ROTARY FUND ESTABLISHED (11/12/2009)

The Board of Directors of the Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently announced that a new permanent fund, The Waynesburg Rotary Fund, has been established. A gift of $2,000 was received from the Waynesburg Rotary Club, which helped the fund meet the threshold to become a permanently endowed fund.

The Waynesburg Rotary Fund will allow the club board of directors to designate small grants to local organizations beginning in 2010.

The Waynesburg Rotary Fund was initiated in 2007 under the leadership of the 2007 Club President Lucy Northrop. The Rotary has added to the fund during the past two years with proceeds from fundraisers and other gifts to reach the minimum threshold of $5,000 to become permanently endowed.

According to Northrop the fund was established to specifically provide a long term fund for Greene County.

“We wanted to do something long-term that would help Greene County,” said Northrop. “We support an international fund but wanted to do something more local. This provides a great venue for people to donate money directly to support projects in the local community.”

The Community Foundation of Greene County( CFGC), a private, non-profit 501c3 organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages $2.0 million in assets through nearly 40 different funds. Gifts made through the Community Foundation are tax deductible. For more information about the Foundation, contact Bettie Stammerjohn by phone at 724-627-2010, email cfgc@gmail.com, or visit www.cfgcpa.org.

CFGC ANNOUNCES EITC SCHOLARSHIPS FOR PRE-K AND K-12 PROGRAMS (11/5/2009)

The Board of Directors of the Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently announced the award of E ducational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) scholarships to local students to attend Pre-K and K-12 programs.

Pre-K Scholarships totaling more than $82,500 were awarded to 79 Greene County children attending 11 different local preschool programs.

Those programs include: All Saints Regional School, Building Blocks, Calvary Chapel Christian School, Christian Sandbox, Growing Up Greene Learning Center, Here Wee Grow Nazarene Preschool, LaLa's Day Care, Nanny's Creative Learning Center, Open Door Christian School, Rainbow's End Learning Center, and St. Ann's Catholic Church Preschool.

The board also awarded 36 EITC K-12 scholarships that totaled $22,750 to eligible Greene County students attending Calvary Chapel Christian School, Open Door Christian School, All Saints Regional School.

The EITC Pre-K and K-12 Scholarships are made possible by contributions of local businesses and corporations as part of a tax credit program offered through the PA Department of Community and Economic Development.

Funds for the Pre-K scholarships were provided by CONSOL Energy, Inc, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, First Federal of Greene County, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield and UPMC Health Plan.

Contributions for the K-12 scholarships were provided by HM Insurance Group, National City Bank and Jordan Auto Parts.

According to Reverend Paul Roofner of the Open Door Christian School, the scholarships help families enroll students when their sons/daughters couldn’t meet the financial costs of the program. “It helps families to send their children to programs like ours,” said Roofner. “Without the financial help, some families wouldn’t be able to do that. This is important because now families have a choice of where they can send their children for education, based on what setting they feel is best for them.”

The Community Foundation has been approved the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development as a Pre-K Scholarship Program and K-12 Scholarship program. More information about these scholarships and how to apply can be found on our website at www.cfgcpa.org .

CFGC, a private, non-profit 501c3 organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages $2.0 million in assets through nearly 40 different funds. Gifts made through the Community Foundation are tax deductible. For more information about the Foundation, contact Bettie Stammerjohn by phone at 724-627-2010, email cfgc@gmail.com , or visit www.cfgcpa.org.

CFGC ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR ROCKY DOMAN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP (10/19/2009)

The Board of Directors of the Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently announced there will be one $1,000 scholarship award from the Rocky Doman Memorial Fund this year. The scholarship will be awarded during the recipient’s high school awards ceremony at the end of the school year.

The Rocky Doman Memorial Scholarship Fund was created in honor of Rock A. Doman. Rock, a 2000 graduate of Carmichaels Area High School, was an outstanding high school football player who won numerous awards and accolades. He is one of only four Greene County players to rush for 4,000 yards.

Rock’s mother, Patti Doman, hopes the award helps a humble student with the necessities of college. “I hope it goes to a humble person like Rocky and helps him or her with their expenses for college such as tuition, books or other needs,” said Mrs. Doman. “I know Rocky would be so honored this could be done for someone.”

To be eligible for the scholarship a candidate must be a male or female senior at one of the five Greene County high schools, must pursue a degree at an accredited two-year or four-year institution, be a standout athlete of any sport and be team player and demonstrate a humble spirit. Additional scholarship criteria, guidelines and forms will be available on the CFGC website, www.cfgcpa.org, or through the high school guidance offices at Carmichaels Area Junior/Senior High School, Jefferson-Morgan Middle School/High School, Mapletown Junior/Senior High School, Waynesburg Central High School and West Greene High School.

The scholarship award is made possible through the contributions of many individuals, businesses and corporations who participated in the Rocky Doman Memorial Scholarship Golf Outing. The golf outing, held this past August, raised more than $9,000 which the Doman family turned over to the Community Foundation who will oversee the scholarship fund. According to Mrs. Doman, the family was touched by the overwhelming support and participation of all who helped make the fundraiser such a success. Another golf outing is planned for August 2010 to help raise the $25,000 needed to permanently endow the scholarship fund at CFGC.

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC), a private, non-profit 501c3 organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages $2.0 million in assets through nearly 40 different funds. Gifts made through the Community Foundation are tax deductible. For more information about the Community Foundation, or how to make a gift, contact Bettie Stammerjohn by phone at 724-627-2010, email cfgc@gmail.com, or visit www.cfgcpa.org.

CFGC AWARDS GRANT FOR WAYNESBURG CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL GREENEHOUSE (9/18/09)

The Board of Directors of the Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently awarded a $5,000 discretionary grant to the Waynesburg Central High School (WCHS) Agricultural Department’s Greenhouse project. The Central Greene School District applied for the grant on behalf of the Future Farmers of America and the Agricultural Department of WCHS.

Over the past 33 years the Central Greene School District has worked to improve and expand learning opportunities for students involved in the school’s Agricultural program.

The Greenhouse project began in the fall of 2007 as a means of adding educational opportunities in greenhouse production, management and marketing skills.

According to current WCHS Agricultural department teacher Robert W. Born the greenhouse which is projected for completion by next summer will provide benefits to students and the local area.

“It’s a great way for the students in our departments who usually don’t work on farms or live on them get to work with the production of vegetables and fruits,” said Born. “Hopefully this will lead to them creating jobs in the future for the local area and selling produce to local citizens.”

The grant was made possible through the Community Foundation’s Fall Discretionary Grant process. Funds for this grant came from the Francis R. “Bob” Bradford Fund which was recently established at the foundation by a bequest from Mr. Bradford’s estate.

The Community Foundation of Greene County, a private, non-profit 501c3 organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages $2.0 million in assets through nearly 40 different funds. Gifts made through the Community Foundation are tax deductible. For more information about the Foundation, contact Bettie Stammerjohn by phone at 724-627-2010, email cfgc@gmail.com, or visit www.cfgcpa.org.

CFGC AWARDS GRANT TO WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY FOR HABITAT INITIATIVE (9/18/09)

The Board of Directors of the Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently awarded a $5,000 discretionary grant to Waynesburg University to provide funds for students and faculty to work with Greene County Habitat for Humanity to build two homes in the community.

Waynesburg University’s mission over the years has been to make connections with the community through faith, learning and servicing.

Once such way of doing this has been the university’s partnership with the Greene County Habitat for Humanity for which a number of university students have volunteered to help.

According Dave Calvario, Dean of Students and Director of the Center for Service Leadership, the grant will help the University meet the financial responsibilities of their work with Habitat for Humanity as the University must match the $35,000 cost for the two houses they will build.

“As a Christian University we felt it was important to provide a service to the community and our work with Habitat for Humanity helps us fulfill this service,” said Calvario. “The grant now will partially help us cover the financial obligations we have with Habitat as we need to provide for half of the costs of the two houses we are working on.”

The grant was made possible through the Community Foundation’s fall discretionary grant process. Funds for this grant came from the Francis R. “Bob” Bradford Fund which was recently established at the foundation by a bequest from Mr. Bradford’s estate.

The Community Foundation of Greene County, a private, non-profit 501c3 organization founded in 2000, is the central philanthropic vehicle in Greene County for donations of various types and sizes. CFGC currently manages $2.0 million in assets through nearly 40 different funds. Gifts made through the Community Foundation are tax deductible. For more information about the Foundation, contact Bettie Stammerjohn by phone at 724-627-2010, email cfgc@gmail.com, or visit www.cfgcpa.org.

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE FOR SOUTHEASTERN GREENE GRADUATES (7/17/09)

The Community Foundation of Greene County announces that it is accepting applications for the William R. Davis, Jr. Memorial Scholarship. The $500 scholarship is available for 2009 graduates of Southeastern Greene High School who are attending Westmoreland County Community College(WCCC) and have a financial need. Previous recipients of the scholarship in 2008 may apply for a second year.

Information about the scholarship and a copy of the application form is available at http://www.cfgcpa.org/endowed.html, or by contacting the Community Foundation office at 724-627-2010 or by email at cfgcpa.org.

Applications for the scholarship must be postmarked by September 1, 2009. The scholarship will be awarded in September.

The William R. Davis, Jr. Scholarship was established in 2006 by the Reverend William R. Davis and Dr. Nancy I. Davis in memory of their son, William R. Davis, Jr.

NEW GRANT OPPORTUNITY FOR LOCAL NONPROFITS (7/10/09)

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) has announced they are accepting grant applications for the fall discretionary grant round.

CFGC seeks to fund organizations and ideas that will have a significant and lasting impact on Greene County, its residents, infrastructure and future. The Foundation expects to award two to three grants between $2,000 and $5,000.

Proposals for grants will be accepted in the following priorities:

Arts, Culture & Humanities – projects that encourage and demonstrate artistic creativity and appreciation and enjoyment of the arts and culture, including visual and performing arts, museums, arts education, and public media.

Education – projects to enhance the education experience for persons of any age; that encourage literacy; and promote lifelong learning skills.

Environment & Animal Welfare – projects to enhance the quality of life, to ensure biodiversity, to mitigate or investigate the impacts of pollution on the local region. Includes conservation, resource protection, energy/renewal resources, agricultural projects and animal welfare.

Health & Fitness –projects that define and address issues of local concern that are not addressed through state or federal tax-supported institutions.

Human Needs – projects whose objects or purposes are to give aid, comfort, support or assistance to children, aged persons or indigent adults, or urban affairs

Public and Societal Benefit – projects that promote community and economic development and/or community involvement

Religious / Faith Based –projects that promote interdenominational sharing and understanding and that emphasize the importance of spiritual growth and development

General grant guidelines and application procedures and forms are available on the Foundation website at http://www.cfgcpa.org.

Eligible applicants must be nonprofit, charitable (recognized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code), tax-exempt organizations whose purposes and programs benefit Greene County residents, including educational institutions and governmental units.

Grant applications for the Discretionary Grants must be postmarked no later than August 15, 2009.

Information about the grant process is available on the Foundation’s website at www.cfgcpa.org. For additional information, contact the Foundation office at 724-627-2010, or e-mail cfgcpa@gmail.com.

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS TO LOCAL STUDENTS (7/9/09)

Seven high school seniors from Greene County schools were awarded scholarships from permanently endowed funds held by the Community Foundation of Greene County. The scholarships will be used to provide tuition support for the students to attend the post secondary school of their choice during the 2009/2010 school year.

Nicole Smith of Jefferson received a $1,000 scholarship through the Dove Award. Nicole will attend the University of Pittsburgh. The Dove Award was established by an anonymous donor to assist students from Jefferson Morgan High School.

Christopher Campus and Joy Durr of Rices Landing, each received $1,000 through the Renardo A. Matteucci Family Scholarship. Campus will attend California University of Pennsylvania. Durr will attend the Axia College of the University of Phoenix.

The Renardo A. Matteucci Family Scholarship was established by Janet Matteucci and her daughters to provide an annual needs-based scholarship for a graduating senior from Jefferson Morgan High School.

Maura Andrews of Carmichaels received a $500 scholarship through the Walter Samek III Scholarship Fund. She will attend the University of the Sciences in Philadelphia. The Walter Samek, III Memorial Fund was established by Deborah Conaway to assist graduating seniors of Carmichaels High School.

Erin Burns, Michael Hildreth, and Jasmine Moore each received a $750 award from the Thelma S. Hoge Memorial Scholarship Fund. Burns, of Waynesburg, will attend the University of Pittsburgh. Hildreth, of Wind Ridge, will attend Washington and Jefferson College. Moore, of Holbrook will attend Fairmont State College in West Virginia. The Thelma S. Hoge Scholarship was established by West Greene High School.

For more information about scholarships through the Community Foundation of Greene County, contact our office at 724-627-2010 or visit our website at www.cfgcpa.org.

COMMUNITY BUILDERS HONORED AT ACHIEVEMENT CEREMONY (6/10/09)

Graduates of two Community Builders of Greene County leadership programs were honored at a ceremony Monday, June 1, at The Center for Research and Economic Development at Waynesburg University.

Nine Greene County residents received the Community Builders Nonprofit Leadership certification for completing the course on management and leadership of nonprofit organizations. Five other local residents received the Community Builders Community Leadership certification for completing the course on community and economic development leadership. Additionally, two residents were presented with a Certified Nonprofit Board Member certificate for completing the core classes covering the responsibilities of directors on nonprofit boards. Each 2009 graduate received a framed certificate, a community builders’ pin, a hard hat and a chocolate hammer.

Community Builders provides training for persons interested in volunteering their time and talents to support Greene County organizations.

Commissioner Pam Snyder and Mr. Bob Willison each provided a keynote address for the achievement ceremony.

The nine local residents who earned the Nonprofit Leadership certification were: Cheryl Clark, Connie Cramer, Rebecca David, William Garrow, Melissa Kirsch, Linda Moon, Amy Roberts, Autumn Simms and Stacy Stroman. The nonprofit leadership track explores nonprofit governance and boards of directors, financial management, communication and team work, strategic planning, public relations, grantwriting, fundraising and volunteer engagement. This track is geared to helping citizens become better volunteers with non-profit organizations in the community, whether it be through activities such as serving on non-profit boards, volunteering on fundraising committees, or providing volunteer services.

Ralph Jannini and Dennis Moore received Certified Board Member Certificates for attending three sessions on nonprofit board development and a session of their choice.

Receiving the Community Leadership certification were: Mark Carlson, Bernice Fox, Suzanne Pushey, Donna Simpson, and Jayme Tuite. The Community Leadership focuses on community planning, meeting facilitation, building collaboration, identifying community assets, local economies, strategic planning, grant writing and technology. This track is geared to helping citizens become more involved in their communities, such as serving in municipal or government positions, boards, commissions, etc. or just having an interest in local economic and community development.

Stacy Stroman received the Community Builder of the Year Award presented by Barbara Wise and Pat Lemley. The Community Builder of the Year Award was established to recognize the graduate who made significant progress in the class.

Local leaders serving on the Community Builders steering committee are Chuck Baily, President, Baily Insurance; Karen Bennett, Director, Greene County Department of Human Services; Darlene Bigler, Executive Director, Community Action Southwest; Dr. Nancy Davis, Coordinator for Workforce Development Program, Greene County Education Center of WCCC; Joy Eggleston, Senior Public Affairs Officer, Southwest Regional Medical Center; Darlene Urban Garrett, Community & Economic Development Associates; Melody Longstreth, Waynesburg Chamber of Commerce, Bettie Stammerjohn, Executive Director, Community Foundation of Greene County, Barbara Wise, Community Builder graduate 2004 & 2005; and Carolyn Wissenbach, Greene County Cooperative Extension Office..

Community Builders was sponsored in 2009 by the Community Foundation of Greene County, Community Action Southwest, the Observer Publishing Company, Southwest Regional Medical Center, and Waynesburg University. Additionally, the following organizations provided sponsorship for one or more employees or board members to participate in the Community Builders series: Community Action Southwest, Girl Scouts of Western Pennsylvania, Greene County Human Services, Mylan Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Nathanael Greene Historical Foundation, Penn Commercial Business and Technical School, RJ Lee Group, Southwestern Pennsylvania Area Agency on Aging, and Southwest Regional Medical Center.

The sixth series of Community Builders Nonprofit Track classes will begin in September 2009. For more information on Community Builders of Greene County call 724-627-2010, or email cfgcpa@gmail.com.

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ACCEPTING GRANT APPLICATIONS (5/12/09)

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) is accepting grant applications for six field-of-interest categories. Applications must be postmarked by June 15, 2009 to be considered.

Nonprofit organizations may apply for grants from following funds:

Arts & Culture Fund for new or existing projects that support or promote arts, cultural and/or historical activities in Greene County.

Children, Youth & Families Fund for new or existing projects that support services for children, youth and/or family well-being in Greene County.

Community & Economic Development Fund for new or existing projects that impact community and economic development in Greene County.

Futures Fund for new, innovative community projects that advance the economic or social well-being of Greene County.

Health & Human Services Fund for new or existing projects that impact health and human services in Greene County.

Kathleen A. Hamilton Davis & William R. Davis Memorial Fund for new or existing projects that support children and families experiencing social or economic hardship.

The Foundation expects to award up to two grants in each category. Grant awards will range between $500 and $1,000. Organizations may submit proposals in more than one field-of-interest category, however, no organization will receive more than one grant in this application round. CFGC seeks to fund organizations and ideas that will have a significant and lasting impact on Greene County, its residents, infrastructure and future.

To apply for a grant, send a proposal describing the project and need for funds, and a project budget. The proposal narrative, not to exceed three pages, should include: a brief background about the organization and mission; a description of the proposed project, including project goals, objectives and outcomes; the need for the project and funds, how the grant award will be used, and how the project will be evaluated. A separate line-item budget that includes total project costs and proposed grant costs must be attached.

Other required attachments include: the Common Grant Application Cover Sheet and Budget form, a copy of the organization’s IRS Letter of Determination, and a list of the organization’s Board of Directors, including addresses and affiliations. Applicants may attach other supporting documentation that describes the project and organization.

General grant guidelines and application procedures and forms are available on the Foundation website at http://www.cfgcpa.org

Eligible applicants must be nonprofit, charitable 501(c)(3), tax-exempt organizations whose purposes and programs benefit Greene County residents. Educational institutions and governmental units are also eligible to apply.

Grant applications for the Field of Interest Grants must be postmarked no later than June 15, 2009.

Information about the grant process is available on the Foundation’s website at www.cfgcpa.org. For additional information, contact the Foundation office at 724-627-2010, or e-mail cfgcpa@gmail.com.

ARMY SPEC. GREGORY A. COX SCHOLARSHIP FUND ESTABLISHED AT CFGC

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC), announces that the Cox family has established the Army Spec. Gregory A. Cox Memorial Scholarship at the Foundation, in memory of their son who was killed while serving in Iraq in 2004.

The scholarship, which was originally started by family members as a trust through a local bank, will now be handled by the Community Foundation, according to Bettie Stammerjohn, executive director of CFGC. In making the decision to set up the fund at the Foundation, Mr. and Mrs. Cox felt that the Community Foundation of Greene County had the expertise and experience to handle the details of administering a scholarship program and to hold the funds in Greene County. “The trust was set up at a bank in Fayette County,” said Mr. Cox. “We felt it was important to have the funds for the scholarship here in Greene County, where Gregory lived, and where many of the people who have contributed to the scholarship live.”

The scholarship has been initially funded with contributions from family and friends, along with proceeds from the Greene River Trail Heroes Run/Walk. While the scholarship fund needs to reach $25,000 to become permanently endowed, the foundation plans to begin awarding a scholarship in the spring of 2010 using some of the proceeds raised from the Run/Walk each year. Scholarship criteria is still being finalized, but the family hopes to assist a Greene County student attending college, participating in Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) and/or planning to enter a career in public safety or public service.

Army Specialist Gregory Cox was the first Greene County serviceman to die in the fighting in Iraq. Born July 6, 1983, a son of John E. and Mary Anne Cox of Carmichaels, Greg was only 21 when he died as a result of injuries when the Humvee in which he was riding overturned near Balad, Iraq. He was assigned to the 1 st Infantry Division.

Contributions for the fund can be made by cash or check made out to Community Foundation of Greene County, with a note or memo line that the contribution is for the Army Spec. Gregory A. Cox Memorial Scholarship Fund, and sent to the Community Foundation of Greene County, PO Box 768, Waynesburg, PA 15370.

For more information about this or other funds at CFGC, contact 724-627-2010, email cfgcpa@gmail.com, or check out our website at www.cfgcpa.org.

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR FIELD OF INTEREST GRANTS

The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently announced that grant applications will be accepted in six field-of-interest categories.

Grants will be accepted for the following funds:

Arts & Culture Fund for new or existing projects that support or promote arts, cultural and/or historical activities in Greene County.

Children, Youth & Families Fund for new or existing projects that support services for children, youth and/or family well-being in Greene County.

Community & Economic Development Fund for new or existing projects that impact community and economic development in Greene County.

Futures Fund for new, innovative community projects that advance the economic or social well-being of Greene County.

Health & Human Services Fund for new or existing projects that impact health and human services in Greene County.

Kathleen A. Hamilton Davis & William R. Davis Memorial Fund for new or existing projects that support children and families experiencing social or economic hardship.

CFGC seeks to fund organizations and ideas that will have a significant and lasting impact on Greene County, its residents, infrastructure and future. The Foundation expects to award one to two grants between $500 and $1,000 in each category. Organizations may submit proposals in more than one field-of-interest categories, however, no organization will receive more than one grant in this application round.

To apply for a grant, send a proposal describing the project and need for funds, and a project budget. The proposal narrative, not to exceed three pages, should include: a brief background about the organization and mission; a description of the proposed project, including project goals, objectives and outcomes; the need for the project and funds, how the grant award will be used, and how the project will be evaluated. A separate line-item budget that includes total project costs and proposed grant costs must be attached.

Other required attachments include: the Common Grant Application Cover Sheet and Budget form, a copy of the organization’s IRS Letter of Determination, and a list of the organization’s Board of Directors, including addresses and affiliations. Applicants may attach other supporting documentation that describes the project and organization.

General grant guidelines and application procedures and forms are available on the Foundation website at http://www.cfgcpa.org

Eligible applicants must be nonprofit, charitable (recognized under Section 501[c][3] of the Internal Revenue Code), tax-exempt organizations whose purposes and programs benefit Greene County residents, including educational institutions and governmental units.

Grant applications for the Field of Interest Grants must be postmarked no later than June 15, 2009.

Information about the grant process is available on the Foundation’s website at www.cfgcpa.org. For additional information, contact the Foundation office at 724-627-2010, or e-mail cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Community Foundation of Greene County in Top Philanthropic Tier Nationally - February 2009

 Waynesburg, Pennsylvania – The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently received notification that it has met the nation’s highest philanthropic standards for operational quality, integrity and accountability. The notice comes from the Council on Foundations, a national professional association based in Washington, D.C.

“This is similar to the Good Housekeeping Seal for community foundations,” said Steve Gunderson, Council on Foundations president and chief executive officer. “It says that the Community Foundation of Greene County has demonstrated a commitment to operational quality, integrity and accountability.”

The National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations Program requires community foundations to document their policies for donor services, investments, grantmaking and administration. With nearly 450 of the 770 community foundations already confirmed in compliance nationwide, the program is designed to provide quality assurance to donors, as well as to their legal and financial advisors.

“This is critically important to our donors,” said Bettie Stammerjohn, CFGC executive director. “When people make a charitable bequest, establish a fund or set up an annuity, they are putting their trust in us. They are counting on us to manage the investment wisely, honor their charitable wishes and, in some cases, provide lifetime income to a loved one. The National Standards confirmation says our house is in order.”

The Community Foundation of Greene County, established in 2000, offers a range of charitable funds, allowing donors to advance a cause such as education or the environment, support an individual organization, provide flexible support for community needs or recommend individual grants. In addition to affirming the organization’s philanthropic services, the confirmation validates CFGC’s grantmaking practices for the nonprofit community.

“Some say it’s easier to create wealth than to give money away wisely,” said Peggy Rock, CFGC board chair. “There’s some truth in that. Grantmaking is a lot like investing… we need to assess risks, weigh potential gains, diversify assets, monitor performance and operate fairly. When you see the National Standards Seal, you can be assured that we’re committed to meeting the highest standards for grantmaking as well.”

The National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations program is the first of its kind for charitable foundations in the United States. Community foundations undergo an extensive review of their organizational and financial policies and procedures as part of the process. The review is performed by trained, experienced community foundation practitioners.

Through philanthropic services, strategic investments and community leadership, the Community Foundation of Greene County helps people support the causes they care about, now and for generations to come. Anyone can establish a new fund, and anyonecan support an existing fund. To learn more about establishing a fund or contributing to an existing fund, and to help shape a better Greene County, contact Bettie Stammerjohn, Executive Director, at (724) 627-2010, or email cfgcpa@gmail.com.

First Federal Supports CFGC Pre-K Scholarship Program - 12/9/08
The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) has received a $50,000 contribution from First Federal of Greene County. The contribution will be used to support the CFGC Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC) Pre-Kindergarten Scholarship Fund which provides scholarship assistance for Greene County children attending approved pre-kindergarten programs.

“We are elated to be able to provide this support that will help Greene County families and children,” said John Mariner, President and CEO of First Federal Savings and Loan Association.

The EITC Pre-K Scholarship program provides children and families with an opportunity to participate in a quality Pre-K program which gives children a good start toward being successful in school and beyond. Families may apply for a scholarship, which is paid directly to an approved Pre-K provider, to help offset tuition and fees for the child. According to Bettie Stammerjohn, executive director of CFGC, some families think they can’t afford to send their child to a Pre-K program, but this scholarship opportunity will help offset the cost to the family and make Pre-K programs more affordable, even for middle income families. This year CFGC has awarded scholarships up to $1,500 based on family need and program length.

"It is wonderful that First Federal of Greene County has chosen to support the EITC Pre-K effort in our community. The whole community eventually shares in the benefits of making pre-kindergarten available to its young children and families,” remarked Margaret Rock, chairwoman of CFGC’s Board of Directors.

Through the state’s EITC Pre-K program, a business may receive a tax credit equal to 100% of the first $10,000 contributed to a Pre-K Scholarship Organization during the taxable year, and may receive a tax credit equal to 90% of any additional amount contributed during the taxable year, up to a maximum of $150,000 per taxable year. Additionally, the EITC allows contributions to a K-12 Scholarship program and a Public School Innovative Curriculum program. Contributions to these programs may receive a tax credit equal to 90% of up to $300,000 annually, if the business commits to a two-year gift, or 75% tax credit for a single year gift.

Businesses authorized to do business in PA and who are subject to one or more of the following taxes may apply for tax credits through PA DCED: Corporate Net Income Tax, Capital Stock Franchise Tax, Bank and Trust Company Shares Tax, Title Insurance Companies Shares Tax, Insurance Premiums Tax, and/or Mutual Thrift Institutions Tax. Partnerships, Limited Partnerships, and Limited Liability Corporations became eligible for EITC in 2008.

Business Tax Credit Applications are available on the PA DCED website at http://www.newpa.com/programDetail.aspx?id=62. Or contact Bettie Stammerjohn at the Community Foundation of Greene County at 724.627.2010 for further details.

To receive an EITC Pre-K scholarship, a child must be at least 3 years old and attending an approved Pre-K program. Household income must not exceed $50,000 with an additional $10,000 allowed for each dependent child. For more information on how to apply for an EITC Pre-K Scholarship, or how to become an approved Pre-K provider, call the Community Foundation at 724-627-2010, or email us at cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Equitable Resources, Inc. Supports Greene County EITC Projects - 11/2008
The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) has received a $15,000 contribution from Equitable Resources, Inc. to support the Foundation’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC) fund. The contribution benefits the Greene County Educational Improvement Fund, which provides grants for innovative educational programs in the public schools.

“We are proud to work with Equitable Resources, Inc. to support public schools and students in Greene County. Education is the core of building a new generation of community leaders,” remarked Peggy Rock, chairwoman of the CFGC Board.

Equitable Resources, Inc. is an integrated energy company with an emphasis on Appalachian area natural gas activities, including production, gathering, processing, transmission, storage and distribution. Through various subsidiaries, Equitable Resources has established a long-standing business presence in Greene County that is now growing as the company expands its drilling activity in the Marcellus shale.

"Equitable Resources has been a consistent supporter of educational initiatives in the areas where we operate," said Jim Crockard, Treasurer of Equitable Resources and graduate of the Greene County public school system. "We are excited to partner with CFGC to find innovative ways to support public school educational initiatives in Greene County."

The Greene County Educational Improvement Fund was established in 2005 when the Foundation was approved The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s EITC program.

Businesses receive Pennsylvania tax credits for their contributions – 90% tax credit if the business makes a two-year gift, or a 75% tax credit for a single year gift, up to a maximum of $200,000 in credits per taxable year, for the innovative Educational Improvement and K-12 scholarship programs.

The Foundation encourages businesses to participate in the Educational Improvement program by making either unrestricted (to support any of the pre-approved programs) or restricted (to support specific approved programs) contributions. Restricted donations are distributed according to the business’s preference, and the unrestricted donations are pooled.

The EITC Educational Improvement Program supports innovative educational projects that enhance the curriculum or academic program of a public school. Greene County school districts submit grant proposals to the Foundation for consideration of the EITC public school educational improvement program. In the past, the Foundation has provided EITC grants to the Greene County Career and Technology Center, West Greene School District, Scholastic Art and Writing of Southwestern Pennsylvania, Greene County Environthon, and Science Matters.

For more information on the EITC program call the Community Foundation at 724-627-2010, or email us at cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Consol Supports CFGC Pre-K Scholarship Program - 11/10/08
The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) has received a $100,000 contribution from CONSOL Energy, Inc. to support the Greene County Pre-Kindergarten Scholarship Fund which assistance for Greene County children attending approved pre-kindergarten programs.

"We are so happy that CONSOL has chosen to support the EITC Pre-K scholarship program in Greene County,” remarked Peggy Rock, chairwoman of CFGC’s Board of Directors. “Pre-school education is important in helping children ultimately succeed in school. Through Consol’s contribution, the whole community eventually shares in the benefits of making pre-kindergarten available to its young children and families.”

The EITC Pre-K Scholarship program provides children and families with an opportunity to participate in a quality Pre-K program which gives children a good start toward being successful in school and beyond.

According to Bettie Stammerjohn, executive director of the Community Foundation, some families think they can’t afford to send their child to a Pre-K program, but this scholarship opportunity helps to offset the cost to the family and make Pre-K programs more affordable, even for middle income families. This year CFGC approved 63 scholarship awards ranging from $585 to $1,500 based on family need and program costs.

Families may apply for a scholarship, which is paid directly to an approved Pre-K provider, helps offset tuition and fees for the child. To receive a scholarship, the child must be at least 3 years old and attending an approved Pre-K program. Family income must not exceed $50,000 with an additional $10,000 allowed for each dependent child. Essentially, a family with two children may earn up to $70,000 and still be eligible for the Pre-K scholarship.

Through the state’s EITC Pre-K program, a business may receive a tax credit equal to 100% of the first $10,000 contributed to a Pre-K Scholarship Organization during the taxable year, and may receive a tax credit equal to 90% of any additional amount contributed during the taxable year, up to a maximum of $100,000 per taxable year.

For more information on how to apply for an EITC Pre-K Scholarship, or how to become an approved Pre-K provider, call the Community Foundation at 724-627-2010, or email us at cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Community Foundation Teams with Community College to Provide Tuition Assistance for CNA program - 10/30/08
The Board of Directors of the Community Foundation of Greene County recently announced that the Westmoreland County Community College Educational Foundation has been selected to receive a $3,600 discretionary grant award.

According to Dr. Nancy Davis, Workforce Development Coordinator at the Greene County Education Center, the grant will provide tuition assistance for eligible Greene County students attending the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program at the Greene County Education Center. Students earning a CNA certificate through this program can seek employment as Nurse’s Aides, Orderlies, and Attendants at long term care facilities in the Greene County area.

“We are pleased to be partners in helping Greene County residents expand their job skills and employment opportunities,” said Peggy Rock, chairperson of the CFGC Board of Directors. “This grant will help individuals who would not otherwise be financially able to complete this course.”

The Community Foundation’s 2008 Discretionary Grant program was made possible by a special initiative of the CFGC Board of Directors. The grant is one of three awards made through this initiative in 2008.

Community Foundation of Greene County Campaigns to Curb Animal Abuse - 10/27/08
The Community Foundation of Greene County is pleased to announce that the Humane Society of Greene County has been selected to receive one of three new discretionary grants. The $2,500 grant to be awarded for the “Break the Cycle of Violence” project will purchase equipment and supplies for the animal control officers at the shelter and to help offset the expenses associated with the 300 abuse calls responded to each year.

“The generosity of the Community Foundation’s Board of Directors is both appreciated and needed in our community,” said Cal Abercrombie, Humane Society Board President. “Since 100% of our operating budget comes from donations, we are grateful to the Foundation for making animal abuse issues a priority by supporting the shelter with this financial contribution.”

The abuse program was founded in 1987 by the Executive Director of the Humane Society, Jane Gapen. Jane also serves as an abuse officer, along with Derek and Denise Forman and Kevin Gray, who all volunteer their time and are licensed and trained by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, and sworn in by the Court of Common Pleas.

In 1987, the first rescue dog was named “Champ.”

Economic Rescue Package Includes Help for Charities
Provision Permits Tax-free Charitable Transfers from IRAs - 10/14/08
Waynesburg, PA – As part of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, the U.S. House of Representatives today passed a two-year extension of Charitable IRA legislation, making it easier for Americans to give to causes they care about. The Charitable IRA provision, first enacted for 2006 and 2007, has the power to help local charities weather the current economic crisis. The extension goes through 2009.

In these financially turbulent times, millions of Americans continue to save pre-tax dollars in individual retirement accounts (IRAs). Thanks to regular investments and long-term returns, an estimated $4.7 trillion is invested in IRAs. The new law allows taxpayers 70 ½ and older to share the wealth by giving retirement savings directly to charity—and bypassing income tax.

This new law is a boon to local charities that are experiencing the effects of a tough economy. The tax benefit expires December 31, 2009.

“It is a win-win—for people who would rather give to charity than pay taxes and the nonprofit organizations they choose to support,” said Bettie Stammerjohn, Community Foundation of Greene County executive director.

Thanks to decades of deliberate saving, some of today’s retirees have more money in their IRAs than they need for daily living expenses and long-term care. Charitable individuals and couples have expressed an interest in giving the funds to charity, but income tax must be paid on all withdrawals, which reduces the value of the gift. Others are concerned about designating their children as IRA beneficiaries, since that may draw unintended tax consequences.

“For larger estates, a good portion of IRA wealth goes to estate taxes and income taxes of beneficiaries,” Stammerjohn said. “Experts estimate heirs may receive less than 50% of IRA assets that pass through estates.”

A provision in the new federal law extends an option: transferring IRA assets directly to charity. By going directly to a qualified public charity such as the Community Foundation of Greene County, the money is not included in the IRA owner’s income and—most important—is not taxed, preserving the full amount for charitable purposes.

New Legislation Provides for Charity
During 2008 and 2009 only, holders of traditional IRAs who are at least 70½ years old can make direct charitable transfers up to $100,000 per year. A single person can transfer $200,000 free from federal tax; a married couple can transfer up to $400,000 free from federal tax from separate accounts. The Community Foundation of Greene County can help donors execute the transfers and choose from several charitable fund options for their gift. Donor Advised Funds do not qualify for tax-free IRA transfers.

“This really is a limited-time offer: the window is open now, but it will close at the end of 2009,” said Stammerjohn. “For anyone interested in establishing a permanent legacy in this community, this is the opportunity of a lifetime to make the gift of a lifetime.”
Through philanthropic services, strategic grantmaking and community leadership, the Community Foundation of Greene County helps people support the causes they care about, now and for generations to come.

Gift of a Lifetime: Shopping for Charity

These days, having more retirement money than you need is a great problem to have, and one that’s now easier to solve. But generous IRA donors still face multiple options for their gifts: Support the entire community? Underwrite a special cause? Shore up a favorite charity? Here are three top charitable fund picks of Bettie Stammerjohn, executive director of the Community Foundation of Greene County.

Good for Greene Fund—Meeting ever-changing community needs
IRA transfers to the Good for Greene Fund address a broad range of current and future needs. Community Foundation evaluates all aspects of community well-being—arts and culture, community development, education, environment, health and human services—and awards strategic grants to select projects and programs.

Stammerjohn: “For people who care deeply about this community and its people, this fund is an excellent way to address our most pressing needs, today and tomorrow.”

Field of Interest Fund—Connecting personal values to high-impact opportunities.
IRA transfers to Field of Interest Funds allow donors to target gifts to causes important to them such as: arts and culture, children & families, community & economic development, health & human services, medical needs and more. The Community Foundation of Greene County awards grants to community organizations and programs addressing the donor’s specific interest area.
Stammerjohn: “For those who are particularly passionate about a single cause, Field of Interest Funds provide strategic, lasting support—even as needs change over time.”

Designated Fund—Helping local organizations sustain and grow.
IRA transfers to Designated Funds allow donors to support the good work of a specific nonprofit organization—a church, senior center, museum or any qualifying nonprofit charitable organization.
Stammerjohn: “For people who want to help secure the future of their favorite charities, our endowed Designated Funds give nonprofits a steady stream of income, plus planned giving and investment management services.”

For more information visit the IRA Charitable page here.

Community Foundation Announces Grant Award From the Kathleen and William Davis Memorial Fund - 8/8/08
The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently announced the recipient of the first grant award from the Kathleen A. Hamilton Davis and William R. Davis Memorial Fund.

The grant of $2,000 was presented to Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Pittsburgh’s Greene County office to support the “Rollercoaster” program.

“Knowing how much caring for families and children meant to Mr. & Mrs. Davis makes this generous gift to Catholic Charities in support of our ‘Rollercoaster’ program especially meaningful,” commented Bernie Fox, Director of Family Services at the Catholic Charities Greene County Office. “The ‘Rollercoaster’ program helps children ages 5-12 deal with the issues and transitions that come with divorce. We are very grateful to the Davis family and the Community Foundation of Greene County for their gift to continue our work on behalf of these kids.”

The Kathleen A. Hamilton Davis and William R. Davis Fund was established by the Community Foundation’s board of directors in 2007 using gifts contributed in memory of Kathy and Bill Davis. Income from the fund is designated to provide support and assistance for the benefit of children and families of Greene County experiencing social or economic hardship.

Bill and Kathy’s daughter, Cami Davis Jenkins, said that she and her brothers, Ryan, Sean and Aryn, were thrilled when the Foundation’s executive director informed them about the Fund’s first grant recipient. She noted that because her mother often worked with families going through divorce or other family transitions, the Rollercoaster program is a great project to receive the first grant.

In presenting the grant award, Peggy Rock, chairwoman of the Community Foundation board of directors said, “The Community Foundation is pleased to make this first grant in memory of Kathy and Bill Davis. This award, along with future grants from this fund, will help us remember their concern for children and families experiencing hardship.”

For more information about the Kathleen A. Hamilton Davis and William R. Davis Fund, or about the Community Foundation of Greene County, call the office at 724-627-2010, or visit the website at www.cfgcpa.org.

The Community Foundation of Greene County supports charitable programs in Greene County. It was founded in 2000 and now administers 34 permanently endowed funds and other programs with total assets of approximately $2 million. In 2007, the CFGC awarded grants totaling nearly $200,000.

Rocky Doman Memorial Scholarship Fund Established - 8/7/08
The Rocky Doman Memorial Scholarship Fund has been established at the Community Foundation of Greene County in memory of Rock A. Doman, who was killed in a gas drilling accident December 2007. The Fund will eventually provide scholarships for graduating student athletes from Carmichaels Area Senior High to attend college.

Establishing the fund with the initial contribution, Rocky’s fiancé, Tiffany Grimm, said, “Because Rocky gave so much of himself, this fund will continue to give back to the community in his memory. It’s what he would have wanted.”

The family hopes to build the scholarship fund to more than $25,000 over the next few years to ensure a significant scholarship award for students from Carmichaels. “We hope Rocky’s many friends, colleagues, and members of the community will help keep Rocky’s giving spirit alive through their support of the fund,” said, his parents, Robert and Patti.

Rock, the son of Robert and Patti Doman of Carmichaels, was a 2000 graduate of Carmichaels High School where he excelled as an athlete. He was awarded all county, and all conference during his three years on the varsity football team as a running back and continues to hold most of the records at the high school. Rock’s highest achievement was being selected to the WPIAL 4000 Yard Club for rushing, one of only four players in Greene County to ever obtain this award.

More than just an athlete, Rock was a very giving and humble person, always helping others. His parents shared stories of the many times Rock would reach out to help other students who were training for football or other sports, giving advice or pointers on how to be a better athlete, and setting a good example. Rock would even make time to stop by and visit an elderly neighbor just to say hi and provide a little company. Most of all, Rock loved children and looked forward to getting married in 2008 and becoming a family with Tiffany and her son, Chase.

Contributions in Rocky’s memory may be made to support the Rocky Doman Memorial Scholarship Fund through the Community Foundation of Greene County. Checks for the fund may be made to “The Community Foundation of Greene County” and include “Rocky Doman Fund” in the memo line. For more information on making a contribution, contact the Community Foundation of Greene County at 724-627-2010, email cfgcpa@gmail.com or visit our webpage at www.cfgcpa.org.

The Community Foundation of Greene County supports charitable programs in Greene County. It was founded in 2000 and now administers 34 funds with total assets of approximately $2 million.

Community Foundation Awards Scholarships - 7/25/08
The Community Foundation of Greene County awarded scholarships to eight students in local school districts this year.

The Thelma S. Hoge Memorial Scholarship was established at the Community Foundation in 2003 by a provision in Ms. Hoge’s will to benefit West Greene graduating seniors who will be attending college. The recipients of three $1,000 Hoge scholarships are: Chelsey Jones, of Rogersville, attending Slippery Rock University; Tucker Conklin of Sycamore, attending Juniata College, and Garett Johnston of Sycamore, attending Waynesburg University.

The Dove Award Scholarship was established by an anonymous donor in 2005 to assist a female student from Jefferson-Morgan School District planning to pursue higher educational opportunities at a four year institution. Siara Meza, of Rices Landing, is the recipient of the $1,000 Dove Award this year. She plans to attend Waynesburg University.

The Renardo A. Matteucci Family Memorial Scholarship Fund, established in 2003 by Mrs. Janet Matteucci in honor of her husband, is awarded to students from Jefferson-Morgan School District. Receiving the two $750 scholarships are David Montibeller of Rices Landing, attending Allegheny College; and Brandee Estle of Clarksville, attending Waynesburg University.

The Walter Samek, III Scholarship was awarded for the third year at the Carmichaels School District awards day. Katrina Lawrence, of Carmichaels, is the 2008 recipient of the $500 scholarship. She will attend West Virginia University. The Samek Scholarship was established in 2006 by Mrs. Deborah Conaway Samek.

Tiffany Bellis, of Dilliner, is the first recipient of the William H. Davis, Jr. Scholarship and will attend Westmoreland County Community College. The William H. Davis Jr. Scholarship was established in 2006 by Rev. William H. Davis and Dr. Nancy Davis, D.Ed., in memory of their son. The $500 scholarship benefits students graduating from Mapletown High School and planning to attend Westmoreland County Community College.

Scholarship funds at the Community Foundation can be created with $25,000 over a five year period of time. Once endowed, scholarships are made based on criteria set forth by the donor. Awards are then made every year for all time in the scholarship name given by the donor. Many donors establish funds to honor or memorialize someone special to them. Organizations may also endow scholarship funds with the Community Foundation to perpetuate their mission.

The Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to building permanent community capital for Greene County causes and organizations. The community foundation manages 34 local, permanently endowed funds. Anyone wishing to learn more about establishing a fund can call the foundation at (724)627-2010 or check our website at www.cfgcpa.org.

Nonprofit Lunch Seminar Scheduled for August 27th - 7/24/08
A lunchtime seminar for nonprofit board and staff members is scheduled for Wednesday, August 27th from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.at WCCC Greene County Education Center.

Mr. Ray Vargo, interim director of the University of Pittsburgh Small Business Development Center will present a program on “Understanding the Financial Condition of Your Organization.”

The seminar is designed to help board and staff members of nonprofit organizations expand their knowledge and skills about nonprofit management issues. This program will specifically address topics such as: how to understand and interpret financial statements, cost behavior and classification, business growth and operating cycles, and how to identify warning signs of cash flow problems.

Registration for the event is $15 per person, which includes lunch. Participants may register by phone at 724-627-2010 or download a registration form at www.cfgcpa.org.

The Nonprofit Lunch Seminar is organized by the Community Foundation of Greene County and the Community Builders of Greene County Steering Committee. Conference sponsors also include WCCC-Greene County Education Center and Greene County Human Services Department.

For more information about the seminar or to download a registration form go to www.cfgcpa.org, or call the Community Foundation office at 724-627-2010.

Community Foundation Announces Discretionary Grant Availability - 7/2/08
The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently announced that they are accepting grant applications as part of their discretionary grantmaking program.

CFGC seeks to fund organizations and ideas that will have a significant and lasting impact on Greene County, its residents, infrastructure and future. The Foundation expects to award one or two grants with awards ranging from $2,000 to $5,000.

Grant priorities for the Discretionary grants include Arts, Culture & Humanities; Education; Environment & Animal Welfare; Health & Fitness; Human Services; Community/Economic Development, Community Involvement, and; Religious/Faith Based projects.

Specific guidelines and priorities for the discretionary grants may be downloaded from the Foundation website at http://www.cfgcpa.org/guidelines.html.

To apply for a grant, send a proposal describing the project and need for funds, and a project budget. The proposal narrative, not to exceed three pages, should include: a brief background about the organization and mission; a description of the proposed project, including project goals, objectives and outcomes; the need for the project and funds, how the grant award will be used, and how the project will be evaluated. A separate line-item budget that includes total project costs and proposed grant costs must be attached.

Other required attachments include: the Grantmakers of Western PA Common Grant Application Cover Sheet and Budget form, a copy of the organization’s IRS Letter of Determination, and a list of the organization’s Board of Directors, including addresses and affiliations. Applicants may attach other supporting documentation that describes the project and organization. Additional information may be requested.

Eligible applicants must be nonprofit, charitable (recognized under Section 501[c][3] of the Internal Revenue Code), tax-exempt organizations whose purposes and programs benefit Greene County residents.

Grant applications for the Discretionary Grants must be postmarked no later than August 15, 2008.

Information about the grant process and general grant guidelines is available on the Foundation’s website at www.cfgcpa.org. For additional information, contact the Foundation office at 724-627-2010, or e-mail cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Community Builders Classes to Begin September 15 - 6/30/08
Community Builders of Greene County announces its fifth annual series of community leadership classes beginning at 5:30 pm, Monday, September 15, 2008. Two separate programs are being offered, Nonprofit Leadership and Community Leadership. Candidates may apply for either program.

Nonprofit Leadership prepares individuals to lead local nonprofit groups, and provides an overview of the duties and skills needed to effectively manage them. The Community Leadership program focuses on community and economic development. Seminars and workshops cover strategies and methods to develop stronger and more prosperous communities and to equip municipal leaders, members of local boards and commissions, and other interested citizens with essential leadership skills.

Community Builders provides low-cost, quality training for present and future leaders of Greene County who want to improve their leadership skills. The sponsors invite current and potential directors, officers, and volunteers to attend. The course includes nine 3-hour sessions conducted between March and October. Classes are from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on the third Monday of each month at the Waynesburg University Center for Research and Economic Development. The fee is to participate in the class is $150.

Local leaders and educators conduct all sessions. They possess both the experience and expertise to lead participants toward competence in nonprofit leadership and economic development. These professionals donate their time and expertise to make the program more relevant to the local area, and to keep the cost of attending as low as possible.

Primary sponsors and members of the Community Builders of Greene County steering committee include representatives of the Community Foundation of Greene County, Greene County Human Services Department, Waynesburg University, Community Action Southwest, Greene County Education Center/Westmoreland County Community College, Southwest Regional Medical Center and several individuals.

For more information about registering for either of the Community Builders programs, or becoming a Community Builders sponsor, call 724-627-2010; e-mail: cfgcpa@gmail.com; or clck on the Community Builders button on the Community Foundation of Greene County website at: www.cfgcpa.org.

Community Foundation Announces Grant Opportunity - 4/22/08
The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) announces that it will accept proposals for a grant award from the Kathleen A. Hamilton Davis and William R. Davis Memorial Fund.

The CFGC seeks proposals for programs that provide support and assistance for the benefit of children and families of Greene County who are experiencing social or economic hardship. The maximum grant amount available is $2,000.

Eligible organizations must be nonprofit, charitable (recognized under Section 501[c][3] of the Internal Revenue Code), tax-exempt organizations whose purposes and programs benefit Greene County residents. Proposed projects must meet the Fund’s guidelines to benefit children and families of Greene County who are experiencing social or economic hardship.

To apply for a grant, applicants should use the Common Grant Application Guidelines, Cover Sheet and Format from the Grantmakers of Western Pennsylvania. The project narrative should not exceed three typed pages. All grant applications must be postmarked by June 2, 2008.

Specific grant guidelines and application instructions are available on the CFGC website at www.cfgcpa.org.

The Kathleen A. Hamilton Davis and William R. Davis Memorial Fund was established through memorial gifts for Kathy and Bill Davis, local attorneys who died as the result of a car accident in May 2007. “Caring for families and children was a priority for Kathy and Bill,” commented Peggy Rock, chairwoman of the CFGC Board of Directors. “We hope that the grants from this fund will keep their memory alive by supporting programs that help families get back on their feet.”

For additional information, contact the Foundation office at 724-627-2010, or e-mail cfgcpa@gmail.com.

CFGC Receives EITC Scholarship Donation From National City Bank - 4/18/08
The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) has received a $2,500 contribution from the National City Bank for CFGC's Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) K-12 Scholarship Program.

"National City Bank has been a tremendous source of support for our EITC scholarship program since it began in 2005," remarked Margaret Rock, chairwoman of the CFGC board.

The K-12 Scholarship program provides scholarships to eligible students attending Pennsylvania private and parochial schools. Families may apply for a K-12 Scholarship, which is paid directly to the student's private or parochial school, to help offset tuition and fees for the child. To receive a scholarship, a Greene County student must be enrolled in a Pennsylvania private or parochial school. Family income must not exceed $50,000 with an additional $10,000 allowed for each dependent child. Essentially, a family with two children may earn up to $70,000 and still be eligible for the K-12 scholarship.

According to Bettie Stammerjohn, executive director, the Community Foundation of Greene County has been able to award more than $35,000 in scholarships for 61 students attending All Saints Regional School, Calvary Christian School and Open Door Christian School because of local business contributions through the EITC program.

Ryan Hartley, vice president and branch manager for National City in Greene County said that National City is proud to support the Community Foundation of Greene County with these scholarships for deserving students. “Our bank has been serving the financial needs of individuals, businesses and families in this area for more than a century and a half. We welcome this opportunity to return the support we have received from this region. We believe that taking care of our communities is not just the right thing to do, it is the best thing we do.”

The Greene County K-12 Scholarship Fund was established in 2005 when the Foundation was approved as a Scholarship Organization by The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development's EITC program.

Under the EITC program, businesses receive Pennsylvania tax credits for their contributions – 90% tax credit if the business makes a two-year gift, or a 75% tax credit for a single year gift, up to a maximum of $200,000 in credits per taxable year, for the innovative Educational Improvement and K-12 scholarship programs.

For more information on the EITC program or how to apply for an EITC K-12 Scholarship call the Community Foundation at 724-627-2010, or email us at cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Ryan Hartley, vice president and branch manager for National City in Greene County presents a $2,500 check to Bettie Stammerjohn, executive director of the Community Foundation of Greene County to benefit the Greene County EITC K-12 scholarship program.

First National Bank of Pennsylvania Supports Greene County Students - 3/21/08
The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) has received a $1,995 contribution from the First National Bank of Pennsylvania to support the Foundation’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC) funds. The contribution is earmarked to support the K-12 Scholarship program for Greene County children attending private and parochial schools.

“We are proud to work with First National Bank to support private school students in Greene County. Education is the core of building a new generation of community leaders,” remarked Margaret Rock, chairwoman of the CFGC Board.

The K-12 Scholarship program provides scholarships to eligible students attending Pennsylvania private and parochial schools. Families may apply for a K-12 Scholarship, which is paid directly to the student’s private or parochial school, to help offset tuition and fees for the child. To receive a scholarship, a Greene County student must be enrolled in a Pennsylvania private or parochial school. Family income must not exceed $50,000 with an additional $10,000 allowed for each dependent child. Essentially, a family with two children may earn up to $70,000 and still be eligible for the K-12 scholarship.

According to Bettie Stammerjohn, executive director, the Community Foundation of Greene County has been able to award more than $35,000 in scholarships for students at three local private schools during this school year. “Because of the support from local businesses like First National Bank,” said Stammerjohn. “We’ve been able to help more than 60 Greene County students with EITC K-12 scholarships at All Saints Regional School, Calvary Christian School and Open Door Christian School.”

“We are committed to supporting the communities we serve,” said Vincent Delie, President and CEO of First National Bank’s Pittsburgh Region. “Our support of local education is also out contribution to the overall success of our region.”

First National Bank of Pennsylvania, the largest subsidiary of F.N.B. Corporation (NYSE: FNB), operates over 150 full-service banking offices in Pennsylvania and Ohio, and loan production offices in Florida and Tennessee.

The Greene County K-12 Scholarship Fund was established in 2005 when the Foundation was approved as a Scholarship Organization by The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s EITC program.

As part of the EITC program, businesses receive Pennsylvania tax credits for their contributions – 90% tax credit if the business makes a two-year gift, or a 75% tax credit for a single year gift, up to a maximum of $200,000 in credits per taxable year, for the innovative Educational Improvement and K-12 scholarship programs.

For more information on the EITC program or how to apply for an EITC K-12 Scholarship call the Community Foundation at 724-627-2010, or email us at cfgcpa@gmail.com.

Scholarships For High School Seniors Available Through the Community Foundation of Greene County - 3/15/08
The Community Foundation of Greene County announces several scholarship opportunities for graduating seniors in the Southeastern Greene, Jefferson-Morgan, Carmichaels, and West Greene School Districts.

The William H. Davis, Jr. Scholarship Fund will provide two $500 scholarships for a graduating senior from Southeastern Greene School District to attend the Westmoreland County Community College. Eligible students must have made application to and been accepted at Westmoreland County Community College as a full-time student for the fall semester and applied for financial aid.

The Dove Award will provide one $1,000 scholarship to a graduating female student from Jefferson Morgan High School. Eligible students must be planning to pursue a Bachelor Degree, Associates Degree, or a diploma from a trade school; have a minimum 2.75 academic GPA, and have a level of financial need.

The R.A. Matteucci Family Scholarship Fund will award two $1,000 scholarships for graduating seniors in the Jefferson-Morgan High School. Eligible students must be planning to pursue a Bachelor Degree, Associates Degree, or a diploma from a trade school; have a minimum 2.75 academic GPA, and have a level of financial need.

Students may apply for the above scholarships by writing a letter addressing the following items: Involvement in Community Service, Extracurricular activities, Volunteer work, number of members in your family and the annual family taxable income. Applicants must also submit a copy of their FAFSA, their Special Condition Form (if applicable), verification of their GPA from the guidance counselor, a copy of their official attendance record and copies of post-secondary acceptance letters. A completed CFGC Common Scholarship Application Cover Form must also be completed.

Applicants should send five (5) copies of the letter and supporting documentation to: The Community Foundation of Greene County, ATTN: Grant Making Committee, PO Box 768, Waynesburg, PA 15370. Letters should be postmarked no later than April 15, 2008.

Copies of the Common Scholarship Application Form and the scholarship criteria are available in the Guidance offices, or on the CFGC website here.

The Walter Samek III Memorial Fund will provide one $500 scholarship to assist graduating senior class members of Carmichaels High School to continue post-secondary education. Eligible students must have a GPA of 3.5 or higher, be enrolled in an approved post-secondary college or university, have a financial need, and be involved in community service. Application forms for the Walter Samek, III Memorial Fund are available from the Carmichaels High School Guidance Office and must be completed and returned to the Guidance Office by April 15.

The Thelma S. Hoge Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to provide scholarship to worthy graduating seniors of West Greene School District who are pursuing a college education. Eligible students must be accepted at a post-secondary four-year college for Fall 2007 and have a minimum GPA of 3.0. Application forms and requirements for the Hoge Scholarships are available through the Guidance Office at West Greene High School and are due back at the Guidance Office by April 16.

The Community Foundation is dedicated to building permanent community capital for Greene County causes and organizations. The Foundation now manages 33 permanently endowed funds and more than $2 million in assets. For more information about the Community Foundation contact Bettie Stammerjohn, Executive Director, at 724-627-2010 or visit our website at www.cfgcpa.org.

• Forget-Me-Not Fund Grant Benefits Cornerstone Care - 12/7/07
The Forget-Me-Not Fund of the Community Foundation of Greene County has provided a grant of $3,065 to Cornerstone Care, Inc. to purchase a new x-ray unit for the dental services department at Greensboro Health Center. This is the first grant to be awarded from the fund.

According to Robert Mt. Joy, CEO of Cornerstone Care, the new x-ray unit will add chair-side x-ray capacity at the only one of three existing dental chairs lacking x-ray capacity. This will allow more patients to be scheduled and treated in a give time without having to unseat and reseat patients in different chairs in order to be fully treated. Because more than 60 percent of Cornerstone Care’s patients are low-income, and more than 20 percent are uninsured, the dental department will be able to increase access for the entire community, and particularly, underserved populations.

The Forget-Me-Not Fund was established in 2006 as a permanently endowed fund by an anonymous donor who wanted to give back to the local community. The Fund was named in memory of a very fine lady who came to Greene County from Europe, taught herself to speak and read English, married a coal miner, and raised nine children. Her favorite flower was the Forget-Me-Not.

Set up as a donor-advised fund at the Foundation, the Forget-Me-Not Fund supports educational, civic, environmental and other charitable programs in Dunkard Township, Pennsylvania and in the Dunkard Creek watershed. When establishing the fund, the donor set-aside some monies to use for grants until the permanent fund grows enough for the income to be used.

For more information about establishing a permanent fund at the Foundation, please contact the Foundation office at 724-627-2010 or email cfgcpa@gmail.com.

• The Good For Greene Fund Established at Community Foundation of Greene County - 12/6/07
The Good for Greene Fund was recently established as a permanently endowed fund at the Community Foundation of Greene County by Mrs. Dolly Throckmorton in memory of her parents, the late James A. and Mary S. Goodwin.

“My parents were very philanthropic people, and I learned from them that donating your time and money to worthy causes is as much a part of a person’s life as family, education and career,” said Mrs. Throckmorton. “Sometimes you can give a little of your time and money, and sometimes you can give a lot. It doesn’t really matter what or how much you give. It just matters that you do.”

Established as an unrestricted fund, the purpose of the Good for Greene Fund will be to enhance the discretionary grantmaking of the Foundation. This means that the Foundation Board of Directors will use the income from the endowment as it grows to award grants to Greene County charitable organizations.

In addition to the contribution for the endowed fund, Mrs. Throckmorton designated a portion of the donation to be used for a special grant opportunity for 2007. Because of this opportunity CFGC awarded a grant of $1,500 to the Nathanael Greene Historical Foundation to provide support for the hands-on artist demonstrations at the 2nd Annual Art Blast on the Mon and ARTS Festival.

According to Mrs. Throckmorton many programs and projects throughout Greene County rely on grants. Sometimes monies that these organizations and programs have depended upon year after year have either diminished or are cut entirely. “The Good for Greene Fund will hopefully allow the Foundation to fill some voids in these worthwhile programs as they see fit,” she commented recently. “These grants will fall under the guidelines set forth already by the Foundation.”

A native of Greene County, Mrs. Throckmorton is a graduate of Waynesburg Central High School and obtained a B.A. in Business/Economics with a concentration in Finance from the University of Pittsburgh. She and her husband, John A. Throckmorton own two local businesses. They are the parents of three daughters.

As a founding member of the Community Foundation of Greene County, Mrs. Throckmorton has served on the board of directors since its inception in 2000. During her tenure, she has served on the Board in many capacities, including the offices of Secretary, Vice-Chair and Chair. Active in the community, she has also served on the board of the Waynesburg Area Chamber of Commerce and Miss Rain Day Scholarship, Inc.

“I am thankful to have the opportunity to establish the Good for Greene Fund,” remarked Mrs. Throckmorton, “and I hope I can continue to grow this fund though out my lifetime, so that it may contribute to programs and organizations within Greene County that work so hard to improve the quality of life here. Endowment is one way to secure the future of these programs. I am confident in the Foundation that they will make careful and meaningful grants from the Good for Greene Fund.”

• COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES DAVIS MEMORIAL FUND - 12/6/07
The Board of Directors of the Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently announced they have established a new endowed fund in memory of Kathleen and Bill Davis.

The Kathleen A. Hamilton Davis and William R. Davis Fund was established as a field of interest fund by the board of directors at their November meeting with the memorial gifts contributed in the Davis’ names. Income from the fund will be used to provide support and assistance for the benefit of children and families of Greene County experiencing social or economic hardship.

“Following the untimely deaths of Kathy and Bill, the Foundation has received more than $18,000 in memorial gifts,” said Bettie Stammerjohn, executive director of the foundation. “We want these gifts to honor Kathy’s and Bill’s memories forever. Every grant awarded from this fund in their name will help us remember their concern for children and families who don’t have sufficient resources, and their love for Greene County.”

The criterion for the fund was decided following careful consideration of the projects Kathy and Bill have supported in the past and through conversations with their children, Aryn, Ryan, Sean, and Cami.
According to Nancy Davis, chairman of the Foundation, the Davis’s were instrumental in the formation of the Community Foundation. Bill Davis helped file the incorporation papers and provided legal counsel during the first two years of the organization. In 2002, Kathy Davis became a member of the board of directors, which meant we had to find other legal counsel. She later established the Katherine M. and D. Dale Hamilton, Jr. Fund, in memory of her parents, to provide holiday gifts for children under the Greene County Children and Youth protective services who are still living in their natural homes.

Kathleen A. Hamilton Davis was born in Mt. Lebanon on June 17, 1948, a daughter of the late D. Dale and Katherine W. Hamilton. After graduating from Dickinson College, she began her career as an educator teaching students from middle school through college. She obtained a master’s degree from California University of Pennsylvania and a doctorate from West Virginia University. She served as academic dean and vice president of Waynesburg College. In 1999 she graduated from West Virginia University School of Law and joined her husband, Bill, in law practice in Waynesburg, Pa.

William R. Davis was born in Waynesburg on August 23, 1943, a son of H. Richard and the late Thelma Shoup Davis. He graduated from Waynesburg High School and Waynesburg College. After teaching math, he attended the Dickinson School of Law in Carlisle, where he met his future wife, Kathy. After graduating from law school in 1968, Bill began a 38-year law practice in Waynesburg. They raised four children, Sean, Ryan, Aryn and Cami.

The Davises were strong supporters of the community. Members of the Washington Street United Methodist Church, they also supported a number of community organizations, including the Community Foundation of Greene County and the Washington Women’s Shelter.

The first grant from this fund will be distributed in 2008 through these memorial gifts. A grant application process for this fund will be announced in the spring.

For more information about the Kathleen A. Hamilton Davis and William R. Davis Fund, or about the Community Foundation of Greene County, call our office at 724-627-2010, or visit our website at www.cfgcpa.org.

• COMMUNITY FOUNDATION CELEBRATES VOLUNTEERS AND DONORS - 11/28/07
The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) celebrated the contributions of its volunteers and major donors during a dinner at the Greene County Country Club on November 14th. Highlighting the event was the announcement of the Outstanding Volunteer Award which was presented to Jim O’Connell and Tom Milinovich.

“The Outstanding Volunteer Award is a new award to recognize volunteers who have gone above and beyond the call of duty,” said Bettie Stammerjohn, executive director of the Foundation. “We have two board members who have truly gone out of their way in support of the foundation. We felt it was important to recognize and honor these individuals for their time and dedication.”

Thomas G. Milinovich, owner of Milinovich & Co., has been a member of the CFGC board of directors since 2001. Throughout his service on the board, Tom has served as the Treasurer of the Foundation, maintaining the foundation’s accounts and monitoring the endowment investment portfolios. According to David Cumberledge, vice-chairman of the foundation board, Milinovich is a valuable supporter of the foundation who, for years with no pay and no recognition, has calculated the payout for each endowed fund, paid all the bills, filed quarterly reports, prepared monthly financial reports, and so much more. Tom’s attention to detail and his knowledge of tax laws and financial planning concepts has helped the Community Foundation of Greene County operate efficiently and grow its endowment over the years.
James R. O’Connell joined the board of directors in early 2005 and from the beginning became fully involved. Just a few months later, O’Connell agreed to take on the office of president of the foundation when the executive director at that time, Joy Eggleston, resigned. The volunteer board position had been previously established to help provide oversight of daily activities in the absence of a paid staff. Dolly Throckmorton, chairman of the board in 2005, shared just a few of the activities that O’Connell completed or maintained during his thirteen months as president. According to Throckmorton, O’Connell worked tirelessly to maintain the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC), encouraging new and existing corporations to provide contributions for the innovative education grants and K-12 and Pre-K scholarship programs. He also updated the foundation’s website and marketing materials, coordinated the Community Builder’s leadership initiative, followed up on developing new permanently endowed funds, and participated in a search for a new executive director. Throckmorton said that O’Connell must have contributed 40-50 hours a week of his time to the foundation during that period of time.

Mrs. Stammerjohn presented Milinovich and O’Connell each with a framed photograph of historic Waynesburg, circa 1875, and a certificate of appreciation. Each picture was inscribed with a plaque recognizing their contributions above and beyond the call of duty to the foundation.
During the program, Mrs. Stammerjohn presented outgoing board members, Dr. Nancy Davis, Dolly Throckmorton, and Joy Eggleston with certificates of appreciation for their service to the foundation. Dolly Throckmorton is a founding member of the Community Foundation and has served on the board, including holding the offices of secretary, vice-chair and chair, since 2000. Nancy Davis, a member of the board of directors since 2002, is the current chair of the board of directors. Mrs. Janet Matteucci received a certificate recognizing her service as a former and founding member of the community foundation.

Major donors to the foundation’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit program received certificates thanking them for their ETIC contributions of more than $50,000 since 2005. Consol Energy contributed $300,000. Equitable Resources and its subsidiaries contributed more than $165,000. Highmark Blue Cross/Blue Shield contributed $50,000 to the EITC programs.

Mrs. Stammerjohn announced that, as a result of the corporate contributions and several new funds this year, the foundation has reached a new milestone with more than $2 million in assets this year. Additionally, the endowment has grown to $1.66 million from $1.5 million at the end of 2006.

The Foundation remembered attorneys Kathleen Hamilton Davis and Bill Davis for their many contributions to and continuing support for the foundation. Kathleen, a member of the board of directors from 2002 until her death, served in many capacities on the board, most recently as secretary. Her husband Bill served as counsel for the foundation during 2000 through 2001, helping to prepare and file the initial incorporation papers for the foundation. Donations in memory of Kathy and Bill now total nearly $18,000. The Foundation established a new, permanently endowed fund in their names to provide grants in Greene County.

The Community Foundation of Greene County was established in 2000 by a group of local citizens who wanted to help build philanthropy in the local area. Since then, the foundation has become the focal point within the county for mobilizing and assisting individual donors, nonprofit groups and organizations to create funds that support today’s needs and that promote long-term investment in the County.

For more information about the Community Foundation of Greene County, call the office at 724-627-2010, or visit the website at www.cfgcpa.org.

• COMMUNITY FOUNDATION WEEK CELEBRATES GIVING IN GREENE COUNTY - 11/8/07
The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) joins more than 700 community foundations across the country to celebrate Community Foundation Week, November 12-18, an event begun in 1989 by Presidential proclamation. The observance has raised awareness of the charitable activities of community foundations and provided donors, even those of modest means, with an opportunity to contribute to the betterment of their communities.

The Foundation will celebrate local charitable giving with a dinner at the Greene County Country Club on November 14th to recognize both individual and corporate volunteers and donors who have contributed their time, their talents, and their dollars.

Community foundations are now one of the fastest growing sectors of philanthropy in the
United States, and have far-reaching benefits for anyone interested in philanthropy.

“Community foundations are at the heart of our cities and towns. We know the places of need in our area, and we can direct resources to solve those problems,” said Nancy Davis,
Chairwoman. “Here at the Community Foundation of Greene County, donors can select the type of charitable fund that best supports their interests and help make Greene County a great place for future generations.” Individuals and groups can establish their own funds, contribute to an existing fund, serve on advisory committees, or volunteer with an agency the foundation supports.

The Community Foundation of Greene County was established in 2000 by a group of local citizens who wanted to help build philanthropy in the local area. Since then, the foundation has become the focal point within the county for mobilizing and assisting individual donors, nonprofit groups and organizations to create funds that support today’s needs and that promote long-term investment in the County.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable corporation, the community foundation currently manages about $2 million in assets, including 27 permanently endowed funds. Funds are professionally managed, and integrated into grant-making programs that address current and emerging needs in areas such as arts and culture, economic development, education, the environment, health, human services, recreation, and religion.

For more information about the Community Foundation of Greene County, call our office at 724-627-2010, or visit our website at www.cfgcpa.org.

• COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES GRANT OPPORTUNITIES - 10/5/07
The Community Foundation of Greene County (CFGC) recently announced that the are accepting grant applications for five Field of Interest Funds.

CFGC seeks to fund organizations and ideas that will have a significant and lasting impact on Greene County, its residents, infrastructure and future. CFGC is currently considering three types of grants - programmatic funding, capacity building, and special projects; in the following service areas: Arts & Culture; Children, Youth and Families; Community & Economic Development; Health & Human Services, and; Innovative Projects that will advance the economic or social well-being of Greene County.

The Foundation expects to award at least five grants, one in each service area, with awards between $500 and $1,000 each.

Eligible organizations must be nonprofit, charitable (recognized under Section 501[c][3] of the Internal Revenue Code), tax-exempt organizations in Greene County, PA. CFGC may make grants to organizations outside Greene County, PA whose purposes and programs benefit Greene County.

To apply for a grant, send a one to two-page letter proposal, on organization letterhead, which describes the proposed project and need for funds. Information should include: a brief background about the organization and mission statement; a description of project need and how the grant award will be used, and; a project budget. Please attach a copy of your IRS Letter of Determination and Board of Directors list including addresses and affiliations. Applicants may attach other supporting documentation that describes the project and organization.

All grant applications must be received in the Community Foundation of Greene County Office no later than 3:00 P.M. on November 1, 2007. All applicants will be notified of the grant awards after November 30, 2007.

Information about the grant process is available on the Foundation’s website at www.cfgcpa.org. For additional information, contact the Foundation office at 724-627-2010, or e-mail cfgcpa@gmail.com.

• COMMUNITY FOUNDATION AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS - 7/24/07
Click to download the PDF Press Release

From the Executive Director’s Desk: Growing for Greene County

The Community Foundation of Greene County continues to grow to the benefit of Greene County residents. Since our beginning in 2001, the Community Foundation was worked with Greene County residents, businesses and agencies to establish endowed funds and increase support for community programs that will continue for generations. Our success during the past year demonstrates some of the fruits of this ongoing work in the community, including adding two new “Partners in Philanthropy” described in another article.

During 2006, the Foundation’s assets grew by more than 18 percent over the previous year, reaching nearly $2 million dollars.

Four new endowed funds were started last year, established bringing the number of funds at the Foundation to twenty-eight and adding $62,000 to the endowment. These included two new permanent funds, the Greene County 4-H Fund and the Forget-Me-Not Fund which were established as permanently endowed funds. The Walter Samek Scholarship Fund and the Community Action Southwest fund were started with initial gifts which will continue to build over the next five years to become fully endowed.

Corporate contributions through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program provided more than $200,000 to benefit local schools and students. The contributions designated for the EITC Public School Improvement supported innovative educational programs and needs including new GIS software for the Computer Aided Drafting curriculum at the Greene County Career and Technology Center. The EITC program also supports scholarships for students attending Kindergarten through Grade 12 at local private and parochial schools, as well as scholarships for 3- and 4-year olds participating in qualified Pre-Kindergarten programs.

The Community Foundation gives right back to the community. In 2006, more than $211,000 was distributed to Greene County agencies and scholarships for Greene County students from designated endowed funds and the EITC program. We hope to expand the number of grants in 2007 with grants from the five field of interest funds which have been building since 2004.

The Community Foundation partners with other local agencies to support and promote activities which build a better Greene County community. The Community Builders of Greene County, a leadership development program, is currently in its fourth year. It is organized by interested citizens and representatives from organizations, including the Greene County Economic Development Office, The Greene County Human Services Office, Community Action Southwest, Waynesburg College, and Southwest Regional Medical Center, among others. The Community Builders program offers nine-sessions of evening seminars over an eight month period from March through October. Many graduates of the program have become involved in their communities as board and committee members of local organizations. The current class has seventeen participants enrolled in the Nonprofit Leadership or Community Leadership courses who are looking to become involved in their communities.

As the Executive Director of the Community Foundation, I am excited by the growth and possibilities that exist for the Foundation and for Greene County. Our office is growing with the addition of part-time administrative assistant, An’Etta Neff, to answer the phone and provide general office support. With your help and support, we will continue to build an endowment that will support Greene County programs and residents, “for good and for ever.”

For more information on how you can support a favorite non-profit agency, organization, church, or scholarship, please contact our office by phone at 724-627-2010 or e-mail: cfgcpa@gmail.com, or visit our website for more information.

Community Foundation of Greene County, PA
P.O. Box 768 • Waynesburg, PA 15370
Phone: 724-627-2010 • Fax: 724-627-2011
Email: cfgcpa@gmail.com

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