News - Page 2 of 14 - Piqua Community Foundation

25 Sep

The Piqua Community is now accepting applications for a part-time executive assistant. This opening follows the departure of LeeAnn Foster, The Foundation’s former executive assistant, who accepted a full-time position with Piqua City Schools last month.

This role provides essential support to the executive director and contributes to The Foundation’s day-to-day operations. The ideal candidate will have expertise in record-keeping, strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience providing administrative support for grant and scholarship programs. Effective written and verbal communication skills, professionalism, and the ability to interact with a variety of stakeholders are also key. Experience with marketing and social media is preferred and would be highly valued in the selection process.

This position offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the Piqua community while finding personal fulfillment in your work.

To learn more about the position and how to apply, click the button below.

5 Jun

Foundation Awards over $84,000 to Nonprofits Benefiting Piqua Community

Kalette Hittle

Uncategorized

Last month, The Piqua Community Foundation awarded $84,326 to area nonprofits through its spring community grant cycle. The Foundation manages donations from community members and gives out a portion of those funds twice a year to support local organizations that serve Piqua residents.

Grant proposals are reviewed by the seven-member Distribution Committee, made up of three Foundation board members and four community volunteers, which makes funding recommendations to the Board of Directors for final approval.

The organizations awarded 2025 spring community grants are:

CASA/GAL of Miami County – CASA Expansion Project
Elizabeth’s New Life Center – SPARK Program
Indian Hills 4-H Camp – Tables for Lodge
Isaiah’s Place – Expansion: Furnishing & Technology Needs
Lehman Catholic High School – Heartbeats of Tomorrow: Revitalizing School Safety
(AEDs)
Miami County Educational Service Center – Career Connections & YouScience
Initiative
Piqua Catholic (Center for Early Learning) – Pre-K Curriculum
Piqua City Schools – Bookmobile
Piqua City Schools – Great Solar System Adventure Planetarium Show
Piqua City Schools – Junior Farmer’s Market
Piqua Community Kitchen – Kitchen Supplies
Piqua Compassion Network – Lightening the Load Laundry Outreach
Piqua Parents as Educators – Parents as Teachers National Conference
Salvation Army – Summer Lunch Program
The Edison Foundation – FiftyNEXT Capital Campaign: Nursing Program Expansion
Upper Miami Valley Young Life – Summer Camp
Wayne’s Legion of Fort Piqua – Historic Fall Trade Faire at Fort Piqua
We Care Arts – SafeHaven Outreach Programing (Art Classes)

Members of the Distribution Committee and Foundation staff visited several grant recipients to present the awards and learn more about their impactful work in the community. These visits offered a firsthand look at how Foundation support is helping bring meaningful programs and projects to life. Three of the organizations visited this cycle include:

Piqua City Schools received funding for its new Bookmobile, which will offer students interactive learning experiences and access to summer reading materials. The Bookmobile is set to follow the Salvation Army’s food canteen truck along the Summer Lunch Program route once a week, with additional appearances planned at local events to broaden its reach. The goal is to increase literacy by making books and educational opportunities more accessible. The Foundation’s grant will help transform the vehicle into a fully functional, engaging learning space for Piqua children.

Indian Hills 4-H Camp received funding to purchase new tables to improve the versatility and usability of the lodge space. These updates will support not only campers during 4-H programming but also enhance the camp’s ability to host community events. Indian Hills 4-H Camp is dedicated to maintaining the property and supporting the development of Miami County 4-H Clubs through leadership training, wildlife conservation, recreation, and social engagement. Each year, the camp serves an estimated 200-300 Piqua residents. The new equipment is expected to expand programming and boost engagement.

Isaiah’s Place was awarded funding for IT equipment and installation in its upcoming building expansion. The organization serves foster children and families and houses a Child Advocacy Center that supports child abuse victims in Miami County. The updated infrastructure will strengthen the organization’s capacity to deliver essential services.

The generosity of our community makes these grants possible. Together, we’re investing in projects and programs that serve and support the residents of Piqua.”

Kalette N. Hittle

Executive Director

The Foundation’s fall community grant cycle opens August 1 with a deadline of September 30.

To learn more about the grant and scholarship programs of The Piqua Community Foundation, visit piquacommunityfoundation.org/grants.

6 Mar

The Foundation Honors Exceptional Local Volunteers with Hinsch Community Service Awards

Kalette Hittle

Uncategorized

The Piqua Community Foundation honored outstanding local volunteers with The Scott J. and Margaret W. Hinsch Community Service Awards in February. Local nonprofit organizations nominated individuals who demonstrated extraordinary commitment in 2024, highlighting those who consistently went above and beyond in supporting the organization.

John and Marsha Hinsch, along with Dr. Linda Hinsch Campbell, established The Hinsch Family Fund of The Piqua Community Foundation to honor the legacy of volunteerism embodied by their parents, Scott J. and Margaret W. Hinsch. Scott and Margaret devoted their lives to service, always finding ways to support various organizations in Piqua.

Each year, the fund’s committee reviews nominations and selects recipients who best reflect this legacy. This year, the committee selected three awardees from a competitive field. Each recipient received a commemorative glass plaque, and the nominating nonprofit organization was awarded a $2,000 unrestricted grant from The Hinsch Family Fund.

Award Recipients:

Mary Lou Fierce, George Sweetman and Kate Sweetman – Garden Tribe Schoolyard Garden with Piqua City Schools
Erin Moran and Dana Treon – All Kids Bike Program at Washington Primary School
Sandy Hemm – YWCA Piqua

Garden Tribe Schoolyard Garden with Piqua City Schools

Ruth A. Koon, Founder of the Garden Tribe Schoolyard Garden, nominated Master Gardeners Mary Lou, George, and Kate for their outstanding work. In 2024, the trio led efforts to replace the deteriorating wooden raised beds with new metal installations. The upgraded garden will continue to provide all fifth-grade students in Piqua the opportunity to learn about healthy eating and gardening. Since the garden’s inception in 2017, these Master Gardeners have dedicated countless hours to developing lesson plans and supervising the planting and harvesting of crops.

“When we established the garden in 2017, a lot of sweat and tears were put into it, but Mary Lou, George and Kate have made it continue since then. We could not do it without them!”

Ruth A. Koon

Founder, Garden Tribe Schoolyard Garden

All Kids Bike Program at Washington Primary School

Holly Peeples, the physical education teacher at Washington Primary School, nominated Erin Moran and Dana Treon for their exceptional work with the All Kids Bike Program. After Piqua City Schools received grant funding for Strider Conversion Bikes, the task of teaching more than 120 kindergarten students to ride seemed challenging. However, Erin and Dana stepped forward as parent volunteers, completing specialized training and dedicating two months to supporting every kindergarten PE class.

“We are so appreciative of our volunteers, Erin and Dana, and all the work they put into the All Kids Bike program. Without them, Holly could not have taught 120+ kindergartners how to ride bikes, and we had everybody riding without training wheels before the end of the series. They (Erin & Dana) were wonderful and very vital to our program.”

Heather Koehl

Principal, Washington Primary School

YWCA Piqua

Executive Director Leesa Baker, along with Board Trustees Nanci McMaken and Cornelia Tinkler, nominated Sandy Hemm for her exemplary leadership overseeing the YWCA renovation in 2024. This major renovation – the first since 1992 – was a comprehensive overhaul that enhanced the facility’s safety, security and energy efficiency. Under Sandy’s guidance, the project involved securing donations and grants, overseeing design and construction and addressing challenges along the way.

“Sandy has devoted decades to the YWCA Piqua and has served its membership in many capacities. In 2024, she led a comprehensive effort to renovate, restore and revitalize the YWCA facility and grounds on Wayne St. Sandy truly championed this monumental project from start to finish, just as she always championed the mission of the YWCA Piqua.”

Leesa Baker

Executive Director, YWCA Piqua

To view video footage from the surprise awards presentations, visit The Piqua Community Foundation’s Facebook page.

4 Feb

Investing in Piqua’s Future: Spring Grants & 2025 Scholarships Now Open

Kalette Hittle

Uncategorized

The Piqua Community Foundation is dedicated to enriching the lives of Piqua residents by supporting both local organizations and students through its grant and scholarship programs. By funding initiatives that strengthen the community and investing in students pursuing higher education, The Foundation serves as a vital resource for creating lasting impact.

The Foundations’ spring grant cycle is now open, offering funding opportunities for organizations with a 501(c)(3) or equivalent tax-exempt status that have project-based initiatives benefiting Piqua residents. Applications must focus on projects that are religious, educational, scientific, literary, or charitable in nature. Applications and grants guidelines can be found on The Foundation’s website, with a submission deadline of March 31.

At the same time, The Foundation is opening its 2025 scholarship season, continuing its commitment to local students. Last year, more than $135,000 in scholarships helped local students take the next step in their education. Each scholarship is unique, with eligibility criteria determined by the donor when the fund was established. Students can access detailed information, guidelines, and applications through The Foundation’s website or by consulting their guidance counselors.

Through these programs, The Piqua Community Foundation is proud to connect generosity with opportunity, supporting local organizations in carrying out impactful initiatives that benefit Piqua residents while providing students with the financial support they need to pursue their dreams.

“We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing support from our community, which enables us to help local nonprofits fulfill their missions and provide students with the resources to reach their educational goals,” said Foundation Executive Director Kalette N. Hittle. “Together, we are shaping a bright future for Piqua.”

To support the programs and make a difference in the lives of others, consider donating to The Piqua Community Foundation. Visit piquacommunityfoundation.org/donate to learn more about giving opportunities.

To learn more and apply for the spring grants or 2025 scholarships, visit piquacommunityfoundation.org/grants or piquacommunityfoundation.org/scholarships today.

Questions about The Foundation’s programs may be directed to info@piquacommunityfoundation.org or 937.615.9080.

4 Feb

Making History: The Foundation Awards Record-Breaking $88,000+ in Grants to Local Organizations

Kalette Hittle

Uncategorized

In a record-setting grant cycle, The Foundation awarded more than $88,000 to local organizations that provide vital programming to Piqua residents. As The Foundation continues to grow, so do the semi-annual standard grant cycles, creating an even greater impact on the community. Our motto, “When you share with us, we share with many,” holds true.

The organizations awarded 2024 fall grants are:

Bethany Center – Child Food Insecurity program
Brukner Nature Center – Owl Extraordinaire for 3rd grade students at Springcreek & Washington Primary Schools
Child Care Choices – Child Care Awareness and Action Campaign
City of Piqua & Miami County Board of Developmental Disabilities – Accessible swing at Pitsenbarger Park
Eagles’ Wings Stable – Instructor certification
Health Partners Free Clinic – Fresh Food for Health
Hospice of Miami County – Patient beds for the inpatient unit
Miami County Dental Clinic – Toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss
Miami County Historical & Genealogical Society – Building upgrades
Miami Valley Veterans Museum – 54th Massachusetts Infantry Diorama
Piqua Catholic School – iPads & cases for Kindergarten classes
Piqua City Schools – Springcreek & Washington Primary Schools – Math Manipulatives
Piqua City Schools – District wide book study
Piqua City Schools – Springcreek Primary School – Garden shed
Piqua Fire Department – stair chairs
Rehabilitation Center for Neurological Disorders – Seating for clients
RT Industries – Transportation routing software
SafeHaven – Nourishing Needs
Samaritan Works – Resident fees
TeKonnect – Computer distribution program
The Edison Foundation – Edison State Community College – Equipment for the accounting business lab
The Edison Foundation – Edison State Community College – 50Next Capital Campaign nursing program expansion
The Salvation Army – Hygiene pantry
Wilma’s Place — Shelter bedding
Young Life — Meals for meetings

Members of the Distribution Committe visited several recipients to present grant awards and learn more about their work. The Foundation hosted representatives from Samaritan Works and TeKonnect to hear about their services firsthand. Additionally, committee members visited SafeHaven and Eagles’ Wings Stable to see their impact in action.

The Foundation’s next grant cycle has a March 31 deadline. To learn more about the grant programs of The Piqua Community Foundation, visit piquacommunityfoundation.org/grants.

5 Dec

Kyle M. Cooper joins The Foundation Board of Directors

Kalette Hittle

Uncategorized

The Piqua Community Foundation welcomed Kyle M. Cooper to the Board of Directors after being elected by the organization’s Life Trustees at the annual meeting on November 12. Her service began immediately as she is filling an unexpired term, which will conclude on December 31, 2025.

Kyle lives in Piqua and is the proud mother of two daughters, Taylor and Bailey. Taylor is in her third year at The University of Cincinnati, while Bailey is a senior at Lehman Catholic High School and plans to attend the University of Findlay in the fall.

With nearly 21 years at Park National Bank, Kyle has focused much of her career on mortgage lending. She is also an active volunteer, having served as the past president of the Piqua YWCA, treasurer for Forest Hill Cemetery, United Way Campaign chairperson, and a member of the Piqua Catholic School Board and Finance Committee.

In her free time, Kyle enjoys spending time with family and friends, golfing, playing pickleball, and attending live music concerts.

In addition to Kyle, the Life Trustees re-elected six incumbent directors, who will serve three-year terms from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2027:

Margaret Loomis French
Stephanie A. Gunter
Molly Karn
Trenton Karn
Randi M. Pearson
Tony Wendeln

See the full Piqua Community Foundation Board of Directors list here.

3 Dec

Celebrate those who give back — send in your Hinsch Community Service Award nominations!

Kalette Hittle

Uncategorized

The Piqua Community Foundation is excited to announce that nominations are now open for The Scott J. Hinsch & Margaret W. Hinsch Community Service Awards. These awards honor the enduring legacy of service and commitment to the Piqua community, as exemplified by Scott and Margaret Hinsch.

Each year, the awards recognize two individuals or small groups who have made a significant impact as volunteers for local nonprofits in the previous year. These exceptional volunteers work tirelessly to improve the lives of Piqua residents, and their efforts deserve to be celebrated.

What’s at Stake?
In addition to receiving a glass plaque as a symbol of recognition, the honorees’ nonprofit will be awarded a $2,000 unrestricted grant from The Hinsch Family Fund of The Piqua Community Foundation to further its mission and impact in the community. This is an excellent opportunity to shine a light on the selfless contributions of volunteers while also providing meaningful support to the organizations they serve.

How to Nominate?
We invite nonprofit staff to submit nominations for volunteers who have made a lasting difference in the Piqua community during 2024. The nomination process is easy and straightforward, and we encourage all eligible organizations to participate.

Details:

Nominate an individual or small group who has served as an unpaid volunteer and has made an outstanding impact to the organization during 2024.
The nominating individual must be a paid staff member or board member of the nominating organization.
Nominations are open now through January 20, 2025.
Honorees will be celebrated with a glass plaque and their nonprofit will receive a $2,000 unrestricted grant during a special surprise ceremony on February 17, 2025.

How to Submit a Nomination:
Click here to read more about The Hinsch Family Fund of The Piqua Community Foundation, access the nomination form and review the guidelines. Completed applications are accepted by email to info@piquacommunityfoundation.org, hand delivery to 209 West Ash Street, Piqua, Ohio, or mail to P.O. Box 226, Piqua, OH 45356. The application must be received by January 20, 2025 for consideration.

2024 Hinsch Community Service Award Winners

7 Oct

LeeAnn Foster joins The Piqua Community Foundation team

Kalette Hittle

Uncategorized

The Piqua Community Foundation is proud to announce the hire of LeeAnn Foster as executive assistant, who began her role last week.

A Sidney native and Lehman Catholic High School graduate, LeeAnn earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Bowling Green State University. Her work experience as a teacher, scheduling coordinator, and office manager has equipped her with strong skills in customer service, thoroughness, creating and fostering relationships, and planning and evaluating for success through teamwork and modifications.

A resident of Piqua for the last ten years, LeeAnn is passionate about supporting and volunteering for the community where she and her husband, Scott Foster, live, work, and raise their three sons, all of whom attend Piqua City Schools. LeeAnn is always willing to volunteer at the schools for special events, and serves on the Piqua Youth Football Association board, where she manages administrative duties, sponsorships, parent and family relationships, and fundraising. In 2022, LeeAnn and her husband participated in the Piqua Arts Council’s Dancing with the Piqua Stars event.

"I believe that to live in a community that you can love and respect, you must play an active, contributing, and positive role."

LeeAnn Foster

Executive Assistant

Kalette N. Hittle, executive director of The Foundation, shared that she and the Board of Directors are excited to have LeeAnn join the team, emphasizing her role in the organization’s continued growth and positive impact on the community.

“LeeAnn’s experience and strong passion for serving the Piqua community align perfectly with our mission and will be an invaluable asset to The Foundation. We are thrilled to welcome her aboard.”

Kalette N. Hittle

Executive Director

The Piqua Community Foundation is located at 209 W. Ash St., Piqua. For more information about The Piqua Community Foundation and charitable giving in the Piqua community, please visit piquacommunityfoundation.org or call 937.615.9080.

12 Sep

$40,000 Awarded in Community Grants from The G. William Hartzell Charitable Fund

Kalette Hittle

Uncategorized

The Piqua Community Foundation on September 11 awarded G. William Hartzell Community Grants totaling $40,000 to 30 organizations that serve Piqua residents.

The grants were made from the charitable fund established by the late G. William “Bill” Hartzell with a bequest from his estate. The grant awards are unique in the simplicity of the application process and the unrestricted nature of the funds to be spent however best serve the organization’s needs.

Miamibucs

Miamibucs is one of the recipients of a G. William Hartzell Community Grant this year. The award will help the organization to continue to offer therapeutic tricyles (trykes) at no cost to children and adults with disabilities who live in Piqua.

G. William Hartzell

Randi Pearson, a retired Hartzell Industries, Inc. employee and fund committee member, reflects on Bill’s heart for Piqua.

“The Hartzell family has been supportive of the Piqua community for decades, and Bill carried on the legacy of his parents, Robert and Miriam, that dates back as far as the 1940s,” Pearson said. “By endowing a fund with The Piqua Community Foundation in his estate plans, Bill ensured that tradition continues to be carried on beyond his lifetime.”

The organizations receiving 2024 G. William Hartzell Community Grants are:

Bethany Center
Big Brothers Big Siters Miami Valley
CASA/GAL of Miami County
Declare Worship Community
Eagles’ Wings Stable, Inc.
Elizabeth’s New Life Center
Friends of the Piqua Parks
Friends of the Piqua Public Library
Health Partners Free Clinic
Isaiah’s Place
Johnston Farm Council
Lifewise Academy – Piqua Chapter
Meals on Wheels of Piqua
Mentoring Partnership of Miami County
Miami County Agricultural Society
Miami County Dental Clinic
Miamibucs Chapter of National AMBUCS
Miami Valley Veterans Museum
Operation Veteran and Caregiver Support
Piqua Area Chamber Foundation
Piqua Arts Council
Piqua Association of Churches – Munch Bunch Program
Piqua Community Kitchen
Piqua Compassion Network
Rehabilitation Center for Neurological Development
SafeHaven
Samaritan Works
The Salvation Army
Wayne’s Legion of Fort Piqua
Young Life

To learn more about the G. William Hartzell Charitable Fund of The Piqua Community Foundation, click here.

8 Aug

Foundation hiring part-time executive assistant

Kalette Hittle

Uncategorized

The Piqua Community Foundation announces the opening of a part-time executive assistant position. Applications are currently being accepted from qualified candidates.

This role will support the executive director and play a vital role in The Foundation’s day-to-day operations. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in record-keeping, effective communication skills, and experience with grant and scholarship programs. This position provides a unique opportunity to serve the Piqua community while finding fulfillment in your work.

To learn more about the position and how to apply, click the button below.

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