By Paul Sadler, Chair for the Greater Chapin Community Foundation
When Bud and Pat Lewandowski, along with Louetta Slice, were considering ways to impact the Chapin community, they never dreamed that their simple idea would grow to benefit so many people. The Greater Chapin Community Foundation (GCCF) is excited to announce a huge milestone of collecting over $750,000. These funds are saved and invested in the area’s charities through annual grants. Since 2003, over $263,000 in grants have been awarded to at least 45 unique organizations. The next goal for the Foundation is to pass the 1-million-dollar mark through a program titled “Invest In Chapin.”
“Every donated dollar brings us closer to creating a sustainable foundation that supports organizations serving the needs of our community in areas such as basic support, arts and culture, historic preservation, and youth leadership development. A donation to our Endowment Fund is tax-deductible and contributes to an enduring source of support. Grants are made strictly from the fund’s earnings, allowing the principal to continue growing. We provide lasting resources to the nonprofits that improve our community daily,” explained board chairman Paul Sadler.
“Invest In Chapin” is the GCCF’s comprehensive plan to offer residents opportunities to donate to the endowment through monthly giving, leaving a bequest, naming GCCF as a beneficiary in estate planning, and attending or sponsoring the GroundHog Ball.
The Groundhog Ball is scheduled for Friday, February 7, at the Cotton Press in Little Mountain. It will include live music, heavy hors d’oeuvres, awards, and a video of the Foundation’s work created by Lux Verum Productions. Nominations are now being accepted for the prestigious annual awards.
The Louetta Slice Philanthropist of the Year Award honors individuals for their outstanding community contributions. Representative Nathan Ballentine was named the 2024 honoree. This year’s recipient will be awarded a $500 donation to the charity of their choice, along with community-wide recognition, a plaque, and other accolades. Esteemed community leaders, such as Mayor Al Koon, Sean Cassidy, Gary Schmedding, and Ken Loveless, have been among past recipients of this distinguished award.
The Bud Lewandowski Youth Philanthropist of the Year Award recognizes the commitment and passion of young individuals dedicated to making a positive change in the community. The recipient will receive a $500 scholarship towards higher education, community recognition, a plaque, and other honors. The Chapin Elementary School Eaglets Club was awarded in 2024. Nominations for these awards are currently being accepted through December 31. Community members are encouraged to submit nominations or by emailing christystodd@yahoo.com.
Some of the groups the foundation has benefited from include the Free Medical Clinic of Newberry, American Legion Post 193, Chapin Community Theatre, Chapin We Care Center, Boys Farm, Crooked Creek Art League, and Screaming Eagles. To receive funding, organizations must serve the Greater Chapin area of Ballentine, Chapin, Little Mountain, Peak, Prosperity, or White Rock, complete the online application, and be recognized as 501(c)(3) charitable organizations.
“Generous is definitely a word that describes the Chapin community. People are always looking for ways to help others, and giving to the GCCF is a chance to ensure that donations continue perpetually. Together, we will reach 1 million dollars as we build a future where our community’s charitable needs are supported for generations,” said Chairman Sadler, who is also the President and CEO of the Greater Chapin Chamber of Commerce. To learn more about the Foundation visit their Facebook page or website at greaterchapincf.org.
