Building On Success
As we step into 2026, I spent some time reflecting on another successful year at The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation. I’m proud of all we accomplished in 2025 and want to highlight some of the milestones we achieved together, along with what’s ahead for this exciting new year.
Looking Back at 2025
Last year marked the conclusion of the 30th anniversary of The Community Foundation’s scholarship program, three decades of investing in education. Over that time, the Foundation awarded more than $7 million in scholarships, helping thousands of students pursue their dreams. Thanks to the generous donors in our community, we can award more than $400,000 each year to deserving local students.
We also launched Rooted to Rise, a campaign designed to support work and play in Hancock County. As part of this effort, we introduced a challenge that sparked meaningful conversations about the county’s housing crisis, a critical issue for families and employers alike. In addition, we ran a successful matching campaign for Fun for All, ensuring that inclusive, free community events remain accessible to everyone.
Speaking of Fun for All, this series of free events reached new heights in 2025. In 2025, we offered lots of hands-on art classes, ice skating, opera performances, bowling, Elvis impersonators, heritage and holiday celebrations, and so much more. Attendance topped 40,000 people, more than half of Hancock County’s population. This incredible turnout proves that free, inclusive events truly bring people together.
We also celebrated the 10th anniversary of Community Heart & Soul, a program that continues to strengthen connections and amplify local voices. The program began in Hancock County in McComb in 2015, followed by Mt. Blanchard in 2016. Arlington and Arcadia are currently implementing the Heart & Soul process in their villages.
Looking Ahead to 2026
This year, we’re excited to launch our Affiliate Program, expanding the Foundation’s reach and impact across Hancock County. Each affiliate has a dedicated giving hub and is supported by the Foundation through training and governance support. Affiliates currently include the Findlay City Schools Foundation, Forge the Future Van Buren, NAMI of Hancock County, and the Van Buren Schools Education Foundation.
The results from our latest Community Conversations will guide our priorities and ensure we’re addressing the priorities, challenges, hopes and dreams you have for the community. Now, we’re analyzing thousands of data points from what you shared with us. We’ll share that report with the community later this quarter.
2026 marks the 20th anniversary of The Family Center. The Family Center is a vital resource that houses 11 nonprofit organizations serving all of Hancock County. A celebration and renovations are planned to make the space even safer, more welcoming, and functional for all visitors.
On behalf of the Foundation board and staff, thank you for your partnership in making these successes possible. Together, we’re building a stronger, more vibrant Hancock County. To stay up to date, subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.
Here’s to another year of improving the quality of life for all in our community.
