Rooted to Rise
Strong Roots
At The Findlay-Hancock County Community Foundation, we believe that a thriving community starts with strong roots— foundations built on opportunity, connection, and well-being. Our latest report, the State of Work and Play, paints a vivid picture of what it means to live, work, and thrive here today—and where our systems must grow to meet the demands of tomorrow.
Work and play aren’t luxuries or opposites. They’re two sides of the same coin. You can’t succeed at work without access to safe housing, reliable transportation, and affordable childcare. And you can’t truly thrive—physically, mentally, emotionally—without the freedom to play. That’s not frivolous; that’s health. Research shows that arts, recreation, and social connection are key components of the social determinants of health, especially for children, older adults, and those in transition. Play is renewal. It’s belonging. It’s resilience. When we invest in both, we build a Hancock County that isn’t just functional—it’s joyful.
And the time to act is now. From a housing occupancy rate of more than 99% to a childcare cost that rivals rent, many families in Hancock County live one unexpected expense away from crisis. Yet even amidst the strain, people here persist in seeking joy, connection, and creativity. That spirit—the heartbeat of our region—is what Rooted to Rise is here to protect and propel forward.
Steady Growth
We envision a future where Hancock County is not just a place people pass through for work - but a place they’re proud to call home. Where children can grow up surrounded by learning and laughter, and adults have access to careers, culture and community without compromise.
Rooted to Rise is our commitment to that vision. it’s not about patching holes, but planting seeds that will grow into lasting change. By investing in both work and play, we’re building a balanced ecosystem where poeple and possibilities flourish.
Work: Support for workforce development programs, transportation and childcare solutions, and housing initiatives.
Play: Expand free recreational and cultural programming, support local arts organizations and park enhancements.
Seeds for the Future
This campaign isn’t just about programs or funds—it’s about values. It’s about declaring that we want more for our neighbors, our families, and our future. That we believe in a community where everyone is rooted in opportunity and lifted by connection.
Supporting both work and play isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Play fuels mental health, builds relationships, and offers respite from survival mode. Work builds security and possibility. When we invest in both, we plant the kind of seeds that grow into stability, creativity, joy, and hope. A flourishing community needs all of it—jobs and joy, infrastructure and imagination, systems and soul.
So let’s plant boldly. Let’s dig deep. Let’s rise together. Join us in planting seeds for a thriving, joyful Hancock County—now and for generations to come.
Together we are planting seeds for a stronger Hancock County and an enduring future.
For giving options, contact Tasha Dimling, Director of Major and Planned Giving, at (419) 425-1100.