December 2023 CEO Blog

Happy Holidays! I hope this wonderful season is bringing you joy and connection. This time of year always serves as a reminder of the importance of connection and the power of coming together. Whether it is cheerful celebrations, the exchange of thoughtful gifts, or the simple moments of reflection in between, I hope you find holiday happiness. Working with the Lorain County community on causes that matter brings me joy, especially during this season. Seeing how our community lifts each other up and ensures the holidays are a little brighter for everyone is joyful indeed.  

Do you ever read an article that resonates, inspires, and stays with you? I recently read a fantastic article “The Best Gifts You Can Give” by Nicholas Kristof in The New York Times. It is not unusual for an article that discusses non-profits or philanthropy to catch my eye, but this one in particular hit close to home. Kristof tells us that we “all have that power to lend a hand,” and shares with readers three nonprofits they could make donations to in honor of a friend or loved one for a holiday gift. 

Let’s all lend a hand by thinking about the friends and family members who insist they don’t want or need a gift, but we want to do something that honors them or an organization they care about. Perhaps that something is a gift to our Impact Today Fund. This fund addresses current priority needs in Lorain County by facilitating gifts from our community to support our upcoming Community Grant cycles and other areas of impact. You can donate to causes that matter in tribute of someone who matters to you.  

As 2023 comes to a close, I am proud of the work our team has done internally on our new strategic plan for the Community Foundation. This ambitious three-year plan is an exciting next step for not just the Community Foundation, but also for our partners and community as a whole. Please let us know if we can share our strategic plan with you or your organization in the New Year. 

Lastly, we are hiring a part-time Data Operations Associate. This is a great opportunity for an individual with a passion for data management and analysis who might also have a passion for working in the field of philanthropy and help shape the future of our community. Check out more information here.  

As we take a collective pause to celebrate the holidays, I want to extend my best wishes to you and your loved ones. May this season bring you peace and joy. May you find time to rest, rejuvenate, and cherish the moments that matter most.  

Warmly, 

Cindy