February 2026 Blog

February ’26 CEO Blog

As we move further into the new year, I am reminded that goals become most meaningful when we take action toward them. And February is the perfect moment for our intentions to begin turning into momentum.

For us at the Community Foundation, that means leaning fully into one of the most inspiring parts of our mission: supporting students as they take their next steps toward the future.

This month marked the official start of our scholarship evaluation season, beginning with a training session that brought together more than forty dedicated community members; former and current educators, nonprofit and board members, and scholarship providers.  Their participation underscores the true breadth of this work—an effort that spans both the detailed preparation happening within our office and the thoughtful review carried out by volunteers across our community. Soon, these evaluators will begin the careful process of reading applications and weighing each student’s story with intention. We are deeply grateful for the time, care and heart they bring to this responsibility.

And this year, we have seen that basis of meaningful action in a remarkable way. An anonymous donor has provided a generous gift to establish a new scholarship fund dedicated to first-generation students. those who are bravely opening new doors not only for themselves, but for their families and communities. This gift reflects a belief we share deeply… that opportunity should be within reach for every student with the drive to pursue it.

Inspired by this generosity and the collective commitment of our community, we have set a goal of doubling the size of this new first‑generation scholarship fund. As decision season for students is near, we want to continue ensuring financial barriers do not dim the promise and potential we see in these applicants.

There is a simple and meaningful way you can join us in this work that is not through monetary donations: continue to help us spread the word about our scholarships. Each year, our scholarship network is growing through the creation of new scholarship seeds and funds that make a difference in our students’ lives.

Just last year alone, Community Foundation awarded $609,000 to students across the county through 66 scholarships adding to the 9 million dollars given to date. This year, our scholarship number has grown to 69 scholarships.

Sharing this resource with your networks, your family, or even one student who might benefit creates a ripple that can change a life. It is one of the most powerful ways to embody our mission and do our parts in connecting people who care with the causes (and opportunities) that matter.

Thank you for being part of a community that shows, day after day, what we can accomplish when purpose meets action.

Sincerely,
Cindy