Dietrich Jackson Memorial Fund makes first grant

The first grant from the Dietrich Jackson Memorial Fund at the Putnam County Community Foundation was recently bestowed upon the Summer Enrichment Program at Gobin Memorial United Methodist Church. Pictured from left are foundation Executive Director Elaine Peck, Summer Enrichment Program Executive Director Gayle Hanson and Dietrich Jackson Memorial Fund Advisory Committee member Charity Pankratz.

The advisory committee for the Dietrich Jackson Memorial Fund recently announced the first grant from the fund was being made to the Summer Enrichment Program at Gobin Memorial United Methodist Church.

The fund is for educational and other charitable purposes to enhance the quality of life for Putnam County African Americans.

"We hope the memory of Dietrich's tragic death will serve as a reminder to Putnam County youth of the dangers of prescription drug use," said Rajai Bimbo, committee member.

The Summer Enrichment Program, a United Way agency, began in 1988 to offer a 6-week enrichment program for "at-risk" children in grades one through five.

It served 65 students in 2007, providing educational, recreational and socialization opportunities, as well as a nutritionally complete breakfasts and lunches.

The program is funded through donations from community members, churches and civic organizations. The founder of the Program is Kelsey Kauffman, and the executive director is Gayle Hansen.

Contributions to Summer Enrichment may be sent in care of Gobin Memorial United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 66, Greencastle, IN 46135.

Advisory committee members for the fund are Bimbo, Dorothy Brown, Charity Pankratz, Tamra Garnes Walker and D'Aundrea Williams.

"We are so pleased to make this grant," said Pankratz, grandmother of Dietrich Jackson. "And we wish to express our thanks to all those who have made contributions to the fund. With their continued generosity, we hope to make a lasting difference in our community."

To make a contribution to the Dietrich Jackson Memorial Fund, make your check payable to the Putnam County Community Foundation and indicate the Jackson Memorial Fund in the memo.

The Putnam County Community Foundation is a nonprofit public charity established in 1985 to administer endowments, award grants and provide leadership, enriching the quality of life and strengthening community in Putnam County. The Community Foundation administers more than 174 funds for donors supporting a variety of charities.

Contributions are fully tax-deductible as allowed by law. Checks may be mailed to 2 South Jackson Street, Greencastle, IN 46135.