by Nicholle Burroughs, Chair for the Greater Chapin Community Foundation
Do you know of a local volunteer or philanthropist that deserves recognition?
The Greater Chapin Community Foundation (GCCF), an endowment publicly funded by and for the people residing in Chapin and neighboring communities, is delighted to announce its annual Chapin Philanthropy Awards. These awards are a testament to the commitment and dedication of individuals and young leaders who are actively making a difference in the community.
The GCCF is dedicated to growing philanthropy in the Greater Chapin area and building a permanently endowed fund to address community needs now and into the future. The Chapin Philanthropy Awards are a cornerstone of their mission and are presented each year at the highly anticipated Groundhog Ball.
The prestigious Louetta Slice Philanthropist of the Year Award is designed to honor an individual whose outstanding contributions have had a significant impact on the community. 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.
In addition, the Bud Lewandowski Youth Philanthropist of the Year Award acknowledges the philanthropic efforts of a student or student group. This award serves to recognize the commitment and passion of young individuals dedicated to making a positive change in the community. The 2023 recipient will receive a $500 scholarship towards higher education, community recognition, a plaque, and other honors. Past awardees include Lily Mohr, Arlis Dawsey, Alexis Grace Moore and Academic Leadership Academy Students, have demonstrated the exceptional potential of our local youth.
Nominations for the Louetta Slice Philanthropist of the Year Award and the Bud Lewandowski Youth Philanthropist of the Year Award are currently being accepted through December 30, 2023. Community members are encouraged to submit nominations via the Greater Chapin Community Foundation website at https://www.yourfoundation.org/community-funds/chapin/ or by emailing christystodd@yahoo.com. Don’t miss the chance to recognize the outstanding individuals and young leaders shaping the future of our community.
The Greater Chapin Community Foundation remains committed to fostering a culture of giving, and the Chapin Philanthropy Awards are a testament to the remarkable impact that dedicated individuals and youth can achieve in our community. The GCCF looks forward to celebrating their achievements at the upcoming Groundhog Ball.
GCCF’s annual Groundhog Valentine’s Ball takes place on the first Saturday of February each year. This annual fundraising event treats guests to a special evening of dining, dancing, and live music at the Cotton Press venue in Little Mountain.
The Greater Chapin Community Foundation is an endowment established to enhance philanthropy in the Greater Chapin area. The Foundation is committed to creating a lasting impact by building a permanently endowed fund to address the current and future needs of our community. Through the annual Chapin Philanthropy Awards, GCCF celebrates and honors those who contribute to the betterment of our community. Since 2003, the GCCF has more than $575,000 endowed for the future of the community. Over $195,000 in grants have been awarded to over 38 different Greater Chapin nonprofit organizations.
Feature Photo: Louetta Slice Philanthropist of the Year Award recipient Mayor Al Koon
