October 24′ CEO Blog

As we turn the page on another Connect to a Cause event, I remain in awe of our incredible community coming together to raise an astounding $389,650 in just 12 hours. This is our most successful Connect to a Cause since its inception, and we couldn’t be more excited about how much this event has grown in just a few years. I would like to thank our non-profits for entrusting the Community Foundation with your endowment funds. A special thank you to the hundreds of donors who contributed to a cause that matters to them. Thank you to our Business Champions who step up year after year to support their community.  And finally, my deepest gratitude to our board and staff for working so hard to make this event a success year after year. None of this is possible without each of these committed individuals working together to make Lorain County a better place for all.  

It is hard to believe, but we are already busy working on our next scholarship season. As I have shared over the past year, a key initiative of our strategic plan is reimagining our scholarship process. This year, we have a comprehensive guide outlining all 63 competitive scholarship funds available to residents and the criteria for each scholarship. We encourage all eligible applicants to visit our site to explore our scholarship offerings and determine the best fit for their academic and career goals. The scholarship process will open on January 1, 2025. We are proud of the difference these scholarship funds make for the future success of Lorain County’s young people.   

Did you check out some of the programs and events that took place during Hispanic Heritage Month? There is still time. Be sure to check out the Vine Avenue Exhibit at Avon Library through October 30th. Our Hispanic Fund President Eileen Torres recently shared her research on Lorain’s rich musical legacy at the Lorain Historical Society’s Latino History Project celebration. Stay tuned for exciting events including a Latino music event at the Lorain Palace Theatre on June 25, 2025, and a documentary premiere in 2026.  

The cooler temperatures are here, and it is the perfect time to get out and enjoy a walk or hike in the Metroparks, snuggle up with a book from one of our libraries, or bring your favorite pumpkin spice coffee to an upcoming Neighbor Night. I hope you are enjoying this beautiful season. 

As a reminder, the Community Foundation is seeking a passionate Development Officer to join our team and lead our fundraising and donor engagement initiatives. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in our community. For more details about the role, click here. Be well, 

Cindy