The Petoskey News-Review
Published 3:37 PM August 16, 2017
GAYLORD — What kind of impact on the community can 100 men have when they gather together for one hour over coffee and doughnuts? They answer is $10,000 for local efforts. Men from Otsego County and beyond came together inside the Headwaters Room at Jay’s Sporting Goods Tuesday to listen to three grant nominations who were randomly drawn from those submitted to give a short presentation.
The nominations chosen this year were the Ralph Holewinski VFW Post 1518, The Gaylord Little League and Boy Scout of America Troop 1. Following the presentations, members voted for the organization they felt was most deserving of the $5,000 grand prize, and Gaylord Little League received the most votes.
“Gaylord Little League is humbled by their selection as the recipient of the 100 Men Who Care grant through the Otsego County Community Foundation," said Mike Perdue, Gaylord Little League board member. "The funds awarded will be used for immediate improvements to our fields so that we can continue to enhance the experience for our area youth ball players."
All three organizations are volunteer run nonprofits that make a tremendous impact in the lives of those who live in our community. The remaining $5,000 was put in the Community Fund of the Otsego County Community Foundation. By supporting the Community Fund, donors capitalize on opportunities and sponsor innovative solutions. Established 20 years ago, the Community Fund is a permanent charitable resource established by generous giving.
“So often we hear men say they wish they had more time, more money, more knowledge," said Dana Bensinger, executive director of the Otsego County Community Foundation."100 Men Who Care breaks down those barriers and each member has a gratifying experience knowing they have truly made a difference in the community they love and with the Community Fund component, that difference isn’t just today or tomorrow, but forever. That’s powerful."
