In 2021, the McElhattan Foundation established the McElhattan Impact Fund for the Knox Area, a dedicated resource for supporting programs and projects that benefit the communities of Knox and Clarion County. Though relatively new, the fund has already made a substantial impact, demonstrating the power of localized giving and the importance of strategic investments in small-town America.
In just a few short years, the McElhattan Impact Fund has distributed over $212,000 in grants across 41 awards to 22 individual organizations. These funds have fueled a wide variety of initiatives—ranging from youth development and health access to educational opportunities and community wellness—each carefully selected for their potential to uplift residents and create lasting, positive change.
One standout example of this impact can be found in the Clarion County YMCA’s All Kids Bike Program. With support from the McElhattan Impact Fund, the YMCA was able to purchase 24 bikes, helmets, and pedal conversion kits for a new initiative that teaches kindergarteners how to ride a bike through an 8-lesson curriculum. Prior to this, the program had limited access to resources, making it difficult to offer the experience to all children regardless of financial background. Thanks to the grant, over 200 local youth each year now have the opportunity to participate in the program, developing confidence, physical fitness, and valuable life skills along the way.
“This grant made it possible to help children reach an important childhood milestone while bolstering their confidence,” shared Max Krepps, Clarion County YMCA Associate Director and All Kids Bike Instructor. “Our All Kids Bike program would not have been possible without the funds to purchase the equipment. It will continue to impact children for years to come!”
The McElhattan Foundation’s decision to create a named fund in partnership with Bridge Builders Community Foundations (BBCF) reflects a broader commitment to strategic philanthropy. By entrusting the fund’s management to BBCF, the McElhattan Foundation ensures that local expertise and community insight remain central to funding decisions. BBCF’s unique role in the region allows it to identify pressing needs and promising programs, aligning fund distributions with real-time priorities in Knox and Clarion County.
Beyond the numbers, the McElhattan Impact Fund is a powerful reminder of the influence that thoughtful giving can have on shaping the future of rural communities. Rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach, the fund supports diverse projects that reflect the specific needs and values of the people it serves. From youth enrichment to educational access, each grant is a testament to the Foundation’s mission: to empower communities by removing barriers and opening doors.
For many local organizations, grants from the McElhattan Impact Fund are more than just financial support—they’re a vote of confidence. They demonstrate that someone believes in their mission and is willing to invest in their ability to create change. This sense of trust and partnership motivates nonprofits to innovate, collaborate, and stretch their impact further than ever before.
Looking ahead, the McElhattan Impact Fund is poised to continue growing in influence and reach. As more community members learn about the fund’s mission and results, there’s increased opportunity to expand its reach through additional donations, partnerships, and shared vision. Donors and supporters who are inspired by the fund’s achievements can make a lasting difference by contributing online, mailing a check, or learning more through the McElhattan Foundation’s website.
The story of the McElhattan Impact Fund for the Knox Area is still being written—but its chapters already reveal a community strengthened by generosity, collaboration, and forward-thinking philanthropy. From the first bike ride of a kindergartener to the steady progress of countless other programs, this fund is making an enduring mark on the heart of Clarion County—one grant, one child, and one future at a time.
To learn more or support the fund, visit www.mcelhattan.org or contact Bridge Builders Community Foundations at 814-677-8687.
