Honoring a Legacy of Leadership: The Coach Patterson Charitable Foundation
Few people leave the kind of lasting impact that Coach Pat Patterson did in the Oil City community. As an educator, coach, and mentor, his influence extended far beyond the classroom and the field—he helped shape the character, discipline, and futures of countless students and athletes. In 2024, that legacy was cemented through the creation […]
Enriching Our Region Through the Arts: The Venango County Arts and Culture Endowment
Since its founding in 1997 by the former Venango Area Community Foundation (now an affiliate of Bridge Builders Community Foundations), the Venango County Arts and Culture Endowment has played a quiet but powerful role in sustaining and enriching creative life across our region. This endowment was created with a simple but ambitious mission: to strengthen […]
Autism Stands : Building a Brighter Future for the Autism Community
For families of individuals with autism, navigating everyday challenges can feel overwhelming—especially when it comes to securing basic necessities that align with their unique needs. That’s where Autism Stands steps in. Founded in 2014, the Autism Stands Fund was created to raise awareness, foster inclusion, and provide tangible support for individuals with autism and their […]
Empowering Nonprofits: The Venango Area Community Foundation Discretionary Grant
Since 1979, the Venango Area Community Foundation Discretionary Grant has played a crucial role in strengthening local nonprofits by providing funding for essential programs, innovative projects, and community-driven initiatives. This grant was established to support organizations that serve the residents of Venango County, ensuring that vital programs can continue to meet the needs of the […]
Fund Spotlight | Frank M. and Eleanor R. Miese Fund
Frank M. and Eleanor R. Miese Fund: Investing in the Future of Cooperstown’s Children Frank and Eleanor Miese believed in giving back to the place that shaped them, ensuring that future generations of children in Cooperstown and surrounding communities would have the opportunities and resources they need to thrive. In 2019, their vision became a […]
Grant Success Story | William & Elizabeth Charitable Fund for the Trades
William & Elizabeth Charitable Fund for the Trades: Investing in the Workforce of Tomorrow The William & Elizabeth Charitable Fund for the Trades was created in 2020 with one mission: to empower students pursuing careers in the trades, applied technology, apprenticeships, and nursing. By providing grants to programs that prepare individuals for hands-on, high-demand careers, […]
Scholarship Success Story | Jasey Donovan
The Margery L. Himes Memorial Scholarship: Creating Opportunities, Changing Lives Higher education can open doors, but for many students, the financial burden makes it feel out of reach. That’s why the Margery L. Himes Memorial Scholarship exists—to break down barriers and help students turn their academic dreams into reality. Established in 2013, this scholarship honors […]
