Community Foundation of Greene County: News

CFGC ANNOUNCES GRANT WRITING WORKSHOP (12/30/2009)

A grant writing workshop will be held in Waynesburg on March 1 and 15 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 3 rd Floor conference rooms of Stover Campus Center at Waynesburg University 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. “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. “The Bayer Center for Nonprofit Management is excited to bring their staff down here to teach this workshop.”

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Text Box: “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.

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