Thankful for Our Helpers

Brian Treece photo
Brian Treece - President & CEO of The Community Foundation

“Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping,” Fred Rogers.

I’m a proud dad, and my daughter and I talk a lot about our community and always work to identify the helpers—people doing their part to make a positive difference. She notices many helpers at her school, at the library, when we see first responders, and when we’re running errands.

As we approach the end of another year, I find myself reflecting on the incredible support and generosity shown to The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation again this year. Year after year, I am grateful for everyone who plays a role in this meaningful organization. It's truly heartwarming to witness the spirit of giving and collaboration that thrives in our community. I would like to identify some of the helpers I get to work with in my work at The Community Foundation.

First and foremost, I extend my deepest gratitude to our dedicated staff. Their hard work and passion are the driving force behind our mission to improve the quality of life in Hancock County. They go above and beyond to connect with donors, support nonprofits and manage the resources entrusted to us with care.

Our board of trustees deserves a special thank you for their leadership and guidance. Their unwavering commitment to our community and strategic foresight help us navigate challenges and seize opportunities to fulfill our vision of a lasting community impact.

To our volunteers, thank you for generously donating your time and talents. Whether you're helping with events, serving on committees or assisting with scholarship reviews, your contributions are invaluable. You are the backbone of our organization, and we appreciate your willingness to share your expertise and enthusiasm.

We are fortunate to partner with many incredible organizations in Hancock County. These collaborations amplify our impact and allow us to address critical needs in our community. Thank you to our nonprofit partners for your tireless efforts to serve our residents and make Hancock County a better place for everyone.

I also want to express my sincere appreciation to our elected officials for their ongoing support. Their understanding of the important role The Community Foundation plays in local philanthropy is vital to our success. We value their partnership and their commitment to building a stronger community.

And finally, to our donors, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your generosity is the lifeblood of our organization. Every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference in the lives of our friends and neighbors. Your trust in us inspires us to continue working hard to ensure your philanthropic investments create a lasting impact for generations to come.

As we gather with loved ones this holiday season, I am reminded that all these helpers represent the spirit of giving that unites us all. Whether it's a donation of time, talent or treasure, every act of kindness contributes to the well-being of our community.

Thank you again for your unwavering support. Together, we are making Hancock County a thriving place to live, work, learn, play and raise a family.

This editorial was originally printed in The Courier Saturday, November 30, 2024.