By Times Leader – November 11, 2020
Charles M. Barber Guest Columnist
One of my favorite quotes, authored by Margaret Meade, reminds us to, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” There is power in people coming together, and now more than ever, we need each other.
A community foundation is called to the table to help solve a community issue or help a group passionate about social causes like animal welfare, hunger, homelessness or domestic abuse. We help make lemonade out of lemons; for others, we help make their charitable dreams become realities.
As we navigate through the challenges of the COVID pandemic, we look for ways to ease the burden that our nonprofits face. They are in the trenches providing necessities such as food, medications, health care and services that bolster support to those whose lives have been dramatically affected by job loss, domestic issues, substance abuse and food insecurity, and the list goes on.
This story — along with the countless others like it — demonstrates the importance of community foundations in this country, which are uniquely situated to improve their regions through supporting innovative solutions and creating powerful partnerships. Starting today and running through Sunday, we celebrate Community Foundation Week, a time when we can share and reflect on the impact stories over the last year. Though you may not yet know your local community foundation, you’ve likely felt its impact.
That’s because The Luzerne Foundation and 900-plus other community foundations across the country help to bring donors and residents together. Community foundations work to support the efforts to help the places we call home to flourish and grow.
The Luzerne Foundation works to enhance Luzerne County residents’ lives by evaluating and addressing community need through strategic grantmaking, promoting responsible philanthropy and connecting donors to causes that matter to them. Our Board of Directors is committed to the public good; transparency, integrity, and honesty; accountability and responsible stewardship; commitment to excellence and maintaining the public trust, embracing diversity and inclusion, making philanthropy equitable for all.
As we enter the giving season, millions of people from every background will be looking to give back to the communities that have supported them. They’ll also look to ensure that their heartfelt giving — however they choose to provide— will have the most impact. That’s why so many of them will decide to give to a community foundation.
A gift to your local community foundation is an investment in the future of your community. Our tagline is “Here for Good.” At The Luzerne Foundation, we recognize that everyone’s idea of “good” is unique to them, but when we assemble all of the “good” done by caring and thoughtful people, Luzerne County becomes a better place to live, work and play. Call 570-822-2065 or visit www.luzfdn.org learn more.
During Community Foundation Week, I hope you’ll join us in recognizing our collective impact and the difference we can make together.
Charles M. Barber
President & CEO
The Luzerne Foundation
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