YCF Recognizes Bi-County Nutrition Fund

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November 14, 2016

During November 12-18, Your Community Foundation, Inc. (YCF) and more than 780 other community foundations across the country will celebrate Community Foundation Week. This week provides foundations with an opportunity to share and reflect on stories of local philanthropists and how their contributions impact the community.

“As we celebrate Community Foundation Week, YCF thanks our donors for their generosity and investment in north central West Virginia. One fund that we would like to highlight this week is the Bi-County Nutrition Fund, which was opened in 2006 by Alison and Patrick Deem. The fund has provided $9,320 in grants to Bi-County Nutrition since its inception,” said Patty Showers Ryan, YCF President.

Allison became aware of community foundations while serving on the United Way of Harrison County board. She felt that a permanent fund with Your Community Foundation, Inc. (then CFNCWV) was the perfect opportunity to help supplement Bi-County Nutrition’s budget.

At Bi-County Nutrition, over 100 volunteers provide an average of 6000 hours of work annually to help seniors citizens in Doddridge and Harrison counties. The communities served include Bridgeport, Lost Creek, Nutter Fort, Salem, Shinnston and West Union. During 2015-16, Bi-County Nutrition provided 116,000 meals.

“There have been budget cuts, so any contribution can make a difference in the lives of so many,” said Wanda Carrico, Executive Director, Bi-County Nutrition.

Fortunately, the YCF Bi-County Nutrition Fund has grown over the years because others have contributed to the fund. Annual earnings from the fund are awarded directly to Bi-County Nutrition to support their efforts in the community.

This story—alongside the countless others like it—demonstrates the tremendous impact and unique importance of community foundations in this country. Though you may not yet know your local community foundation, you’ve likely felt its impact. A gift to your local community foundation is an investment in the future of your community. The funds will go to work immediately supporting vital services, but they will also provide sustained support for years to come.