January 2023 CEO Blog

We are a few weeks into the new year, and winter is settling in around us. How are you being mindful about resting and recovering this month? After the holiday season, we should all make a point of allowing ourselves the grace of rest and recovery. Winter can be a challenging time in Northeast Ohio, so be sure to take care of yourself, check in on friends and neighbors, and lean into what provides you rest and recovery so you can prepare for what comes next. 

And what is coming next here at the Community Foundation is truly exciting! We are busy preparing for one of our favorite days of the year: Toni Morrison Day on February 18th. Essay submissions are coming in, and we still have a few days left for young people to participate with two options to choose from for creating a narrative: “If you want to fly, you have to give up the things that weigh you down” or “What’s the world for you if you can’t make it up the way you want it?” Please share this opportunity with Lorain County students in grades Kindergarten through college. The deadline is this Friday, January 27th. 

As the calendar turned to a new year, we welcomed new Board leadership here at the Community Foundation. We are thrilled to introduce our 2023 Board Chairperson, Charlita Anderson-White. Charlita is a recently retired Domestic Relations Court Magistrate and most recently served as our Governance Chair. We are grateful to our outgoing Chairperson, Kevin Donovan, for his dedication to the Community Foundation. We look forward to working with Charlita as we chart our course for the next few years. 

The Community Foundation of Lorain County has been sponsoring Racial Equity trainings since 2020, with over 120 community members have participated. In 2023, the Community Foundation will continue our commitment to providing support and avenues for racial equity work.  In February, we will offer our next Racial Equity Institute (REI) Phase 1 Training, scheduled for February 23rd and 24th. I encourage you to take advantage of this FREE incredible workshop. This training has challenged my thinking and continues to help me grow as a professional and a person. Don’t hesitate to contact me if you want to learn more – I am happy to share my experience.  

Finally, we are already thinking about Connect to a Cause 2023. Now is the time for non-profit organizations interested in participating in this fabulous event to register. Since its inception, Connect to a Cause has helped 92 non-profit organizations raise over $750K to live out their mission of serving the residents in Lorain County! Why not join us this year? Register here.  

While the days may feel gray and cold, we know this time prepares us for what comes next.  

In gratitude,  

Cindy  

P.S. If you are a person (like me!) who embraces winter activities, share your favorite January activity with us on our Facebook Page for a chance to win a Community Foundation vintage shirt. Check out our Metroparks and local community center for winter activities. I look forward to seeing your ideas and activities!