A Season of Appreciation
This has been a year unlike any other. Certainly, one for the history books. As I reflect on my fifth year at The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation and my first few months in the role of president and CEO, I can say without a doubt that our community has faced so much in 2020.
I want to thank all who are responding to, and leading our community through, the pandemic. This includes first responders, essential workers, civic leaders and elected officials, those who work in the health care and human services, educators, and so many others who are doing everything they can to support our community. These individuals have gone above and beyond for the safety and wellbeing of all of us. We are indebted to each of you!
Beyond the front lines, everyone has played a role in our community's response to the pandemic. At home, work, school and more, I thank you for doing your part to help us overcome this together. I would be remiss if I did not mention the nonprofit organizations that have stepped up to take on more than ever before. These organizations are a critical part of the continuum of care in our community. We thank you for being a partner and collaborating every step of the way.
The coronavirus pandemic has posed many challenges, but it has also manifested many new partnerships that will continue to benefit Hancock County for generations. For example, since March, we've met regularly with elected officials to help bring state and federal dollars to local organizations. This has resulted in resources for food distributions, support for eviction prevention, medical assistants in our schools and more. I am grateful for these new connections, and I know they will continue to be fruitful for Hancock County.
On behalf of everyone at the Foundation, I want to extend my gratitude to you for making this work possible. Because in times of challenge, your generosity rises. Because of our donors, we have the resources to continue to respond to the pandemic while also funding projects that will have a long-term impact. For more than 27 years, we have worked to live our mission of improving the quality of life in Hancock County. I know the dedication and drive to better our community will not be curtailed.
As I reflect on the year, I know one thing is true: We are blessed to live in a place where people put the needs of others first in good times and in bad. I hope in 2021 we can join with you in your philanthropy to demonstrate the impact we can make … together. Let's connect to amplify your giving next year and beyond.
This editorial was originally printed in The Courier Wednesday, December 23, 2020.
