Celebrating 15 Years of Community Impact
In 2009, the Ottawa County Community Foundation (OCCF) was established with the vision of empowering local communities to thrive. What began as a dream, supported by the generous founding donors—Steve & Patricia Baccus, R.B. Barefield, Hal & Eleanor Berkley, Mark & Jane Berkley, Mike Berkley, Kevin & Sandra Cline, Fred & Leslie Hargis, Dean & Illa Rae Johnson, Robert Martin, In Memory of Mason Carl McHenry, Timothy & Carol O'Keefe, Dardanelle E. Wedel, Kenneth Wedel, M.D., Kermit & Kathleen Wedel Trust, Bank of Tescott, Bennington State Bank, G.L. Huyett, Ottawa County Bank, and Rupert Land & Cattle Co.—has blossomed into a cornerstone of support for Ottawa County.
Over the past 15 years, OCCF has received more than $4.7 million in donations from over 700 donors. These contributions have enabled the foundation to grant over $2 million to a wide variety of initiatives that have strengthened the fabric of our community. Grants have touched every corner of Ottawa County, supporting vital areas such as education, parks and recreation, community development, religion, and human services. The foundation's commitment to youth and education is especially evident, with over $77,000 in scholarships awarded to 25 deserving students, helping them to pursue their dreams and invest in their future.
Today, OCCF manages assets exceeding $5.2 million, a testament to the trust and generosity of our community members. These funds ensure that we can continue supporting Ottawa County’s growth and progress for generations to come.
But the heart of our foundation lies in the belief that no donation is too small. Every contribution, no matter the size, has the power to create ripples of change. Whether it’s a single dollar or a substantial endowment, the collective spirit of giving has transformed lives and uplifted our community. Thanks to donors, volunteers, and visionaries, the Ottawa County Community Foundation continues to make lasting impacts, proving that when a community comes together, the results are extraordinary.
As we celebrate this significant milestone, we extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has played a part in this journey. Together, we have built a legacy of hope, generosity, and resilience that will continue to shape Ottawa County’s future for years to come.
Here's to the next 15 years of making a difference—together!
