FOUNDATION NEWS 2022
The Journal's 2022 Holiday Issue
Turn to Pages 16-20 of the Journal’s 2022 Holiday Issue. Then check out Pages 26-30 to read about Greater Pike’s Vice Chair Edson Whitney and his worldwide accomplishments.
Holiday Issue 2022
Read Holiday Issue 2022 by publisher-milfordjournal on Issuu and browse thousands of other publications on our platform. Start here!
A New Greater Pike Fund Focuses on Conservation Education
December 1, 2022
MILFORD, PA – “Our community is our home. If we don’t take care of our home, we can’t expect others to do it for us.” Those are the words of the late Richard L. (Dick) Snyder, a community benefactor and conservationist. He knew that Pike County residents are blessed to be surrounded by pristine woodlands and waterways and hoped future generations will continue to enjoy and benefit from them.
Attorney John “Duke” Schneider is helping to fulfill Snyder’s legacy. He wants students in the Delaware Valley School District to make good use of land given to the school district by Snyder. To make that happen, he established the Richard L. Snyder Chair of Conservation Studies Fund to create a curriculum at DV schools. Its initial project – a new trail for students that will give them access to hands-on aquatic and other environmental research opportunities – was constructed this fall with distributions from this Fund.
Greater Pike Fund Helps Donor Stay on Track
November 28, 2022
MILFORD, PA – Ed Mosher is some who is used to staying on track. Retired after 43 years as a locomotive engineer with the Erie Railroad, Mosher recently followed his personal track when he established a donor-advised fund with Greater Pike Community Foundation.
“I was looking for a way to give back to the community,” the 88-year-old Milford Landing resident said. “I’ve always had the desire to help others who need help.”
Mosher, who has a personal connection with cancer in his family, plans to direct funds to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital as well as other cancer support organizations. The self-proclaimed animal lover also plans to assist animal shelters and local food pantries, “who do so much for the community.”
“Greater Pike is helping me to direct my contributions to causes that are important to me and that can use the help,” he said, adding that he is happy to be able to “give back anything to the community for whatever needs they have for whatever reason.”
Greater Pike’s 7th Annual Dinner Honors Local Philanthropy
October 26, 2022
MILFORD, PA – Nearly 150 supporters of Greater Pike Community Foundation gathered at the Tom Quick Inn recently to celebrate the Foundation’s 10-year anniversary, to honor two outstanding local examples of philanthropy, and announce two new exciting initiatives.
Bill Kiger was selected to receive the Barbara J. Buchanan Community Service Award for his involvement in many different local nonprofits and philanthropic efforts. The Arlene Quirk Team of Keller Williams Realty in Milford received the Richard L. Snyder Excellence in Business Award for their commitment to our local economy and their charitable support to numerous organizations.
As part of the honors, each recipient chose a charity of his/her choice to receive a $1,000 grant from Greater Pike. Kiger chose the Milford Fire Department and the Quirk team selected the Milford Garden Club.
The annual event included the presentation of a new video produced by the Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau which highlighted Greater Pike’s support of nonprofits and charities in the region over the past 10 years.
Milford Couple Adds Community Philanthropy to Long List of Accomplishments
October 13, 2022
MILFORD, PA – What happens when a local couple has lived in Milford for 40 years, been married for 50 years and has seemingly already “done it all” but apparently still has a desire and enthusiasm to do even more? Well, they look around in their community and think, “how can we now make good of all that this community has given us and that we have accomplished?”
That is what happened when Chuck and Celeste O’Neil of Milford recently opened a Fund with the Greater Pike Community Foundation that will soon begin assisting such community needs as autism support services, food insecurity, domestic violence, and historic preservation. Greater Pike assists individuals who want to support their communities with a strategic and managed approach.
Commissioners Endow Pike County Emergency Services Initiative (PCESI) Fund
October 7, 2022
MILFORD, PA – The Pike County Emergency Services Initiative Fund, administered through the Greater Pike Community Foundation (GPCF), was created in 2019 by the Pike County Commissioners and Public Safety Department, with founding donations from the law firm of Weinstein, Zimmerman & Ohliger; William Lovejoy; and individuals who generously supported the NEPA Gives day of philanthropy. The mission of the fund is to provide adequate funding to qualified Pike County emergency services agencies and other nonprofit emergency response organizations to advance the cause of emergency medical services in the County through support of, and access to training programs.
Since its implementation, the fund has:
- Saved local EMS agencies $35,260 in EMT course fees
- Supported 5 classes at the Pike County Training Center with 1 ongoing
- Produced 20 new EMTs from the Program, 17 of which are serving Pike County
Greater Pike Community Foundation Awards Grants to Local Food Pantries in Advance of the Holiday Season
September 30, 2022
MILFORD, PA – Four area food pantries recently received $1,000 each from Greater Pike Community Foundation to assist in their efforts to fight food insecurity and provide support for those in need in our community. Grants were awarded to the Ecumenical Food Pantry of Pike County in Milford, the Good Cheer Food Pantry at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Greeley, the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Food Pantry in Dingmans Ferry, and the St. Ann’s Food Pantry in Shohola.
The funds come at a critical time for area food pantries, with colder weather and the holidays approaching as well as a steady increase in families seeking assistance.
Passing the Torch at Greater Pike Community Foundation
September 19, 2022
MILFORD, PA – Many may consider the name Jenni Hamill synonymous with Greater Pike Community Foundation, and with good reason. Hamill is the first Executive Director of the regional philanthropic organization and has heralded many changes and improvements since her start in 2017.
Hamill recently announced that she will be stepping aside as Executive Director to allow for new leadership to take the organization to its next “life stage.” She plans to stay involved with the organization and focus on areas that really excite her, such as advancement and new fund development.
“Greater Pike has progressed – with rapid growth — from its infancy stage to a new life stage where it can benefit from a leader with more time to take us to the next level. I am imagining someone with nonprofit leadership skills, positive energy, and an understanding of our community.”
28 Area Nonprofits Receive Grants from Greater Pike
September 13, 2022
MILFORD, PA – This year’s grants from the Richard L. Snyder Fund at Greater Pike Community Foundation total more than $100,000 and will benefit 28 different nonprofit organizations. The grants will be used to sponsor local arts, culture, festivals and events; to maintain and enhance public areas in Milford Borough; and to support public health initiatives and medical research.
Greater Pike Chair Gail Shuttleworth expressed gratitude for the generosity and foresight of Dick Snyder, who set up the Richard L. Snyder Endowment Fund before his death. “With this funding, Greater Pike can positively impact the social, economic and health and safety of all corners of our community. We will all see and experience the benefits of the projects, programs and initiatives that will be undertaken by these nonprofits,” she added.
Among the cultural programs that the grants will support are musical performances, living history programs, films and access to our local museums.
Nine Pre-K Scholarships through Greater Pike Help Local Families
August 30, 2022
MILFORD, PA – With funding from Greater Pike Community Foundation, scholarships totaling over $16,000 are helping nine students attend pre-K programs in Milford.
Tuition assistance was awarded to the families of seven children at the Center for Developmental Disabilities, which helps defray the costs for summer or fall enrollment. Additionally, the families of two students enrolled at Green Trees Early Learning Center received tuition assistance.
“I’d like to thank Greater Pike Community Foundation for choosing my son James as the recipient of the pre-K summer camp scholarship,” said Lucia Schrag. “This thoughtful and generous gift allowed me to keep my full-time job and also gave my son the opportunity to have a fun and educational summer at CDD.”
Milford Couple Starts Foundation Fund to Help Community
August 22, 2022
MILFORD, PA – When Milford residents Peter and Kathy Maio retired in 2019 they knew they would make their Gold Key home their permanent, year-round residence. They like the area, they enjoy the outdoor recreation it offers and felt at home here.
But they wanted to do more than just live, ski and hike here. They wanted to give back to the community in a focused and purposeful way. So they started a fund with Greater Pike Community Foundation and plan to donate to and support local services that assist many in need.
“We’ve lived in many places and recognize that housing and food insecurity and environmental issues are prevalent all over,” said Peter Maio. “We’ve seen it as a growing concern here and it disturbed us.”
New Greater Pike Initiative Aims at Helping Nonprofits Gain Financial Stability
August 8, 2022
MILFORD, PA – A new initiative aimed at helping nonprofits gain financial stability has been introduced as part of Greater Pike Community Foundation’s 10-year anniversary commemoration. The “10-for-10” program invites up to 10 local nonprofit organizations to open an organizational endowment fund before the end of the year and includes a one-time $1,000 gift in matching funds.
“If your organization is strained by constantly seeking grants and donations and you’d like to plan for your financial future, consider establishing an endowment fund through Greater Pike and creating a nest egg ‘For Good. Forever,’” said Executive Director Jenni Hamill.
Greater Pike Annual Dinner Planned For October 6 2022 Honorees Announced
July 27, 2022
MILFORD, PA – Greater Pike Community Foundation’s 7th Annual Gala Dinner will be held Thursday, October 6, at the Tom Quick Inn, Milford, PA. This gathering of business, philanthropic, and civic leaders is the Foundation’s primary formal fundraiser and returns after a 2-year hiatus.
Greater Pike’s 2022 honorees will be acknowledged at the event. Bill Kiger will receive the Barbara J. Buchanan Community Service Award, which is given to an individual who exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism and giving back to our community. The Arlene Quirk Team of Keller Williams Real Estate earned the Richard L. Snyder Business Leadership Award, given for outstanding corporate philanthropic leadership in the community.
Greater Pike Awards More than $30,000 in Scholarship Aid
June 21, 2022
MILFORD, PA – Greater Pike Community Foundation recently presented scholarship awards totaling $33,800, including $9,200 in multi-year renewals to past recipients, to Delaware Valley and Wallenpaupack Area High School seniors who are planning to pursue a variety of academic interests in colleges and universities this fall.
The awards, benefiting 12 students, are from funds administered by Greater Pike.
“The Foundation greatly appreciates the generous donors who support these scholarships,” said Ann Morey, Greater Pike Scholarship Committee Chair. “Their support helps these talented youth attend college and pursue their career interests.”
Pike Potter Turns Pasta into Dough for Greater Pike
June 17, 2022
SHOHOLA, PA – Greater Pike Community Foundation has as its core mission philanthropy for the long run. It’s exactly what David Greenbaum of Shohola was looking for when he went from turning clay into pots to turning dough into pasta, and back into dough again.
About six months ago this soft-spoken, meditating, boat-building, artist-turned-noodler felt he had molded enough pottery and built enough boats and now wanted to “do something fun, and share something good with the world.”
Honesdale National Bank Donates to Greater Pike for STEM Program Delaware Valley School District Students Benefit
May 17, 2022
MILFORD, PA – Greater Pike Community Foundation is pleased to acknowledge a $2,500 donation from Honesdale National Bank that will help to provide educational enhancements for students in science, technology, engineering and math (the STEM Program) in the Delaware Valley School District. The donation was made through Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program (EITC).
“The Honesdale National Bank is proud to support students’ access to educational programs that will provide them with a strong foundation and the greatest opportunity for success in their futures,” said Elizabeth Nagy, VP, Director of Sales, Marketing and Digital Banking. “We applaud the Greater Pike Community Foundation and the Delaware Valley School District for making such programs possible.”
More than $100,000 in Grants Available from Greater Pike Community Foundation’s Richard L. Snyder Fund
April 28, 2022
MILFORD, PA – Approximately $118,000 is available this year to nonprofit organizations through Greater Pike Community Foundation’s Richard L. Snyder fund grants. Applications will be accepted from May 15- to June 15.
The substantial grant amount to be dispersed is nearly 50% more than recent years. New this year will be one $7,500 grant in each of the three categories. Other grants will be capped at $5,000. Organizations working in the areas of beautification, cultural events, and medical-related projects are encouraged to apply, but please contact Greater Pike for clarification if you are unsure if your application will qualify under one of the areas specified.
Networking and Learning Top Greater Pike Nonprofit Community Workshop
April 25, 2022
MILFORD, PA – After a 2-year pandemic-related hiatus, more than 55 participants representing nearly 40 nonprofit organizations recently gathered to share information, learn about funding opportunities, and network at the popular Greater Pike Community Foundation Nonprofit Workshop.
Charity and community spirit were highlighted and celebrated as those in attendance presented updates about their organizations and shared enthusiasm for moving forward. Greater Pike Executive Director Jenni Hamill shared information about funding opportunities..
Greater Pike Names Barbara J. Buchanan Fund Grant Recipients
April 15, 2022
MILFORD, PA – The Barbara J. Buchanan Fund of Greater Pike Community Foundation is pleased to announce a total of $3,000 in awards to help support four nonprofit organizations that provide cultural and social services in the region.
“Barbara Buchanan’s tireless philanthropy raised millions of dollars for many diverse organizations, including this year’s recipients,” said Maryanne Monte, Greater Pike Community Foundation’s Grant Committee Chair. “We are honored to continue her legacy and make these awards in her memory.”
Greater Pike Community Foundation Names 2022 Honorees for Community Service and Business Leadership
March 31, 2022
MILFORD, PA – A longstanding community supporter and a philanthropic business team have been named the 2022 Greater Pike Community Foundation honorees and will be honored at Greater Pike’s 7th Annual Dinner on Thursday, Oct. 6, 2022.
“We are celebrating our 10-year anniversary and Greater Pike is working hard to move philanthropy forward into our next decade. We are grateful for the continued support of the greater Pike County region and outstanding community members such as those selected to be our 2022 honorees,” said Gail Shuttleworth, Greater Pike Board Chair.
Generous Donation to Greater Pike Fund May Benefit Youth, Scholarship Services
March 15, 2022
MILFORD, PA – A local businessman with a history of charitable giving recently made a generous donation to a fund he established with Greater Pike Community Foundation that will help him focus his philanthropy on building capacity in the community for future generations.
Local businessman and Milford resident Charles Petersheim hopes his latest donation of $100,000 to the Petersheim Fund will allow him to take his charitable giving to a new level.
Youth services and scholarship are areas that Petersheim has been exploring for his more focused, giving plan.
Greater Pike Receives Weis Markets Donation for Delaware Valley Schools
March 14, 2022
MILFORD, PA – Delaware Valley School District students will get a leg up in science and technology this year thanks to a generous donation from Weis Markets, Inc.
Weis Markets Inc. recently donated $1,500 to Greater Pike Community Foundation through the State of Pennsylvania’s EITC program. The program awards tax credits to businesses making significant contributions to educational programs.
The funds will be used for the purchase of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) educational equipment to assist Delaware Valley School District students.
Non-Profits Can Get Boost with NEPA Gives Campaign
March 7, 2022
MILFORD, PA – Non-profit organizations that may need a boost in their fundraising efforts after two years of COVID-19 restrictions will have a chance to raise much-needed funds on June 3, 2022, by participating in NEPA Gives, a 24-hour online giving marathon. This socially distanced, yet socially driven online fundraising event is hosted by Greater Pike Community Foundation and other foundation partners in northeast Pennsylvania.
All nonprofit organizations are encouraged to register now at https://www.nepagives.org/register and help spread the word about the event to their supporters.
“It is a win-win for area nonprofits,” said Greater Pike Executive Director, Jenni Hamill.
Greater Pike Community Foundation Non-Profit Workshop Makes a Comeback
March 3, 2022
MILFORD, PA – After a pandemic-related hiatus, Greater Pike Community Foundation’s Annual Workshop for non-profit organizations is scheduled for Tuesday, April 12, 2022, at the Tom Quick Inn in Milford, PA. The morning will begin with a light breakfast at 8:30 AM, and the meeting will commence promptly at 9:00 AM.
“Our goal for this event is to foster collaborative solutions to address the identified needs and challenges in our community,” said Maryanne Monte, Greater Pike board member who helped launch this annual event as part of the Milford Enhancement Committee more than 20 years ago and now spearheads the initiative for Greater Pike.
New Greater Pike Fund to Help With Equine Therapy Access
March 3, 2022
A screening of the classic film National Velvet will help raise money for a new fund established by the GAIT Advisory Council at Greater Pike Community Foundation. The new fund will increase access to GAIT’s equine therapy programs.
The timeless film will be shown on April 3, 2022, at noon at Milford Theatre. For tickets and information. Proceeds from the film showing will benefit the GAIT Advisory Council Endowment (GAIT ACE) fund, which was recently established to help defray tuition costs…
Grants Available from the Barbara J. Buchanan Fund at Greater Pike
February 7, 2022
Non-profit organizations are encouraged to apply for grants from the Barbara J. Buchanan Fund of Greater Pike Community Foundation through March 4, 2022.
Three, $1,000 grants will be awarded. Complete grant applications must be received by 5 pm.
“Because of Barbara Buchanan’s generosity, this grant opportunity underscores the legacy of commitment Barbara had to her community and to the causes she held dear,” said Maryanne Monte of Greater Pike’s Grants Committee.
New Directors Join Greater Pike Community Foundation Board
January 10, 2022
Two Pike County residents with extensive business and marketing experience have joined the Board of Greater Pike Community Foundation.
Reginald Charlot is Managing Director, Tourism Market Development, for NYC & Company. Luke Turano is an Insurance Professional and Financial Advisor with Turano Insurance and Financial.
“I look forward to working with both Regi and Luke as they bring experience and a new perspective to the Board,” said Board Chair Gail Shuttleworth.