The Ottawa County Community Foundation, a public charitable organization created in 1999, is gearing up for its 2020 season to improve the quality of life for those who live, work, and visit in the Ottawa County area.

“We are excited to build on our first 20 years of success,” said President Joy Roth of the Board of Directors. “From humble beginnings in 1999, we have grown to 90 funds which are invested for the future. Our assets are currently over $9 million, which will allow us to continue our mission of ‘Doing Good.’”

“In 2019, we awarded over $49,000 as grants to 29 local organizations to support projects and programs that address current and emerging needs throughout Ottawa County,” said Roth. “Our scholarship funds have provided 119 scholarships for deserving students with a total of $141,993 given.”

President Roth expressed thanks to businesses and individuals for their generous response to the year-end fundraising campaign. The support enables the Ottawa County Community Foundation to continue its mission to serve as a mechanism for charitable giving and enrich the community by supporting local needs.

Scholarship applications for graduating seniors can be obtained from the guidance offices at high schools throughout Ottawa County. This is also the time of year when the Grants Committee accepts requests for funding for 2020-2021.

Interested organizations should refer to the Grant Guidelines available on the Foundation’s website: ottawaccf.org. The deadline for applications this year is Monday, March 16. Questions regarding grants or scholarships may be directed to info@ottawaccf.org or stop at the foundation office, 306 Madison St., Port Clinton on Wednesdays between noon and 3 p.m.

Elected as officers of the Foundation in 2020 were: Joy Roth – President; Jan Preston – Vice President; Marcia Jess – Secretary; and John Madison – Treasurer. In addition, Jim Deer, Marcia Jess, Jan Preston, Joy Roth, and Dave Slosser were re-elected to three-year terms on the Board of Directors. There are currently 14 members on the Board with three emeritus members.

The nominating committee is seeking an additional board member from the Marblehead area.