By Amy Pancake, Associate Director/COO, Eastern West Virginia Community Foundation, apancake@ewvcf.org
As the quieter days of summer make their exit and September arrives in a flurry of activity, I am delighted to share exciting news from our foundation and the many ways our community continues to grow through generosity, collaboration, and service.
During our recent Board of Directors meeting, we were honored to accept two meaningful new gifts that will create lasting opportunities for our communities.
The Ida Geneva Bullett Scholarship honors a loving mother whose life was defined by compassion and service to others by providing a scholarship to a Martinsburg High School senior planning to study medicine/healthcare with a preference given to African American students, followed by minority students and then first-generation students. Additionally, we have established an Emergency Housing Fund that will provide housing insecurity grants throughout our five-county service area. As housing challenges continue to affect many families, this fund will offer critical support to non-profits serving individuals and households facing unexpected hardships.
Earlier this week, we partnered with the Two Rivers Giving Circle in support of their summer meeting and open house. This event highlighted the historic preservation and natural resource conservation projects made possible through grants awarded to our community non-profits. These efforts demonstrate the power of collective giving and the positive impact of local philanthropy.
Looking ahead, we are especially excited to partner with the United Way of the Eastern Panhandle to host a two-part Nonprofit Sustainability Series on Sept. 23 and Sept. 30. This unique program will bring together nonprofit leaders, keynote speakers, and panel discussions for important conversations about building resilient organizations and sustaining meaningful community impact. A virtual option is available. If this is of interest to you, please contact me for the link.
Featured keynote presenter for Sept. 23 is Danielle Battle, co-founder of RICH (Restoring Inner City Hope, Inc.) and the RICH Juice Bar. She will present “Proximity to Possibility: Building Community, Enterprise, and Impact.” Drawing from her experiences in community development and entrepreneurship, Dani will explore how authentic engagement can create pathways to opportunity and transformation.
Joining us on Sept. 30 is Anthony Sartori, a social entrepreneur who helps organizations build more connected and resilient workplaces. His keynote, “Five Essentials for Workplace Mental Health and Well-Being,” will offer practical strategies for fostering healthy workplace cultures and supporting employee wellness. More information at www.ewvcf.org.
Lastly, our 31st Annual Report to Our Community has been published, marking the culmination of our 30th anniversary year – a milestone that invites us to reflect with gratitude and look ahead with renewed purpose. Looking back at the vision and generosity of our founders, as well as the continued generosity of our donors, non-profit partners, board members, and communities, we are proud to be a part of this continued legacy. Call or visit us to get a copy or view it on our website.
As we move into this busy and promising season, I continue to be inspired by the generosity, leadership, and vision that define our community. Thank you for your support, partnership, and belief in the power of philanthropy to create positive change. Together, we are building a stronger future for all.
Amy Pancake is the Associate Director and COO of the Eastern West Virginia Community Foundation and can be reached at apancake@ewvcf.org or by calling 304-822-7200. For more information on the Eastern West Virginia Community Foundation, visit www.ewvcf.org.
