What kind of impact can over 100 women have on their community when they gather together for one hour? They can raise $15,000 for local efforts! On Tuesday, May 14, a dynamic group of women came together at the Otsego Resort and listened as four members were randomly drawn and had the opportunity to share on behalf of a local nonprofit organization. Following the presentations, members voted for the organization they felt was most deserving of the grand prize. $5,000 was awarded to Wellspring Lutheran Services and $2,500 was awarded to 22 2 None.
”Thank you so much to the Otsego Community Foundation 100+ Women Who Care. We were thrilled to have been chosen by the ladies for the $5,000 grant. We will use the money to fulfill the wishes of children in foster care in Otsego County. We have already identified soccer league fees, basketball camps, swim lessons and a specialized backpack for one of kiddos in a wheelchair. We are blessed to live in a community that honors children,“ noted Darla Edwards, Foster Care Licensing Worker with Wellspring Lutheran Services.
“With the grant 22 2 None received from this year’s 100+ Women Who Care, we will be able to directly impact the women veterans in our community with relief funds to aid with any circumstances that require urgent assistance. Heartfelt thanks to everyone attending or donating to this impactful event,” stated Tabitha Beach, board of directors member of 22 2 None.
All four of the organizations that presented are valuable nonprofits that make tremendous differences in the lives of those who live in our community. The remaining $7,500 raised was put in the Community Fund of the Otsego Community Foundation. By supporting the Community Fund, the group of women capitalized on opportunities and sponsored innovative solutions. Established almost 25 years ago, the Community Fund is a permanent charitable resource that grows through giving. When funds are added to the endowment, the needs of our community are met today and for years to come.
“So often we hear women say they wish they had more time, more money, more opportunity to offer. 100+ Women 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,” said Dana Bensinger, OCF Executive Director.
With the generous support of the event’s Premier Sponsor, Otsego Resort, and Promotional Sponsor, CP Consulting, 100% of all monies raised were used to benefit the nonprofits.
The mission of the Otsego Community Foundation is to activate generosity for a strong community. To learn more about giving to an existing endowment or creating a new endowment fund, call 989-731-0597 or go to www.otsegofoundation.org.
