Reflecting on PCCF’s impactful 36 years

Neysa Meyer

Reflection is considered an essential element of development. It’s the opportunity for us to step back and see the bigger picture, as it’s often difficult to appreciate what has changed and how far we’ve come. But these moments of reflection are crucial to growth.

Here at the Putnam County Community Foundation, we’ve recently celebrated our 36th anniversary on Oct. 17. This is our time to reflect and celebrate our community and the people who have given their time, talent and treasure to ensure our county thrives today and for generations to come.

Generous giving and strategic investing have increased the Community Foundation’s assets from $2,350 in 1985 to more than $40 million today. Because of this growth, we have provided more than $17 million in total grants and scholarships. Yet, while the numbers have increased over the years, our mission has remained the same: Partner with those who give to enrich the quality of life and strengthen community for this and future generations.

Over the years, we’ve heard some truly inspiring stories of lives transformed through grant-funded projects. However, for every story told, there are more tucked away. When I joined the Community Foundation staff, it didn’t take me long to realize that many of our community members have been impacted by the Community Foundation, whether they know it or not.

The scope of our support for our local nonprofits, schools, agencies and other charitable initiatives is broad. We have partnered with libraries throughout the county, People Pathways, 4-H programs, Rural Transit, our first responders and our county schools, to name a few.

In the words of Mary Ritter Beard, the results of philanthropy are always beyond calculation. Although we take the time to reflect on our rich past each year, it isn’t easy to truly calculate the Community Foundation’s impact over the years. However, our partnerships throughout the county illustrate the impact that can take place when donors, nonprofits and community members work together.

Recently, I’ve been reminded of how proud we should be as a community. So much has been accomplished since 1985 when a few forward-thinking community members united to ensure Putnam County remained a great place to call home. Our community has generously supported the Community Foundation through the years, and together we will continue to enrich the quality of life and strengthen community for generations to come.

I look forward to seeing what we accomplish together in the next 36 years.

This column is available to read free of charge thanks to the generosity of the Putnam County Community Foundation.