Dec
23
Written by:
ngreditor
12/23/2009 10:32 AM
Community Foundation end of year report
“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.” —Helen Keller
Optimism is alive and well in Newman Grove! In 2009, the Newman Grove Community Foundation returned over $5,000 to the community to help Newman Grove remain a great place to live and work. We want to take this opportunity to thank you for your financial support and to bring an update on the achievements of the Newman Grove Community Foundation this past year:
In February, the Foundation sponsored radio ads to support our basketball teams and promote the work of the Foundation. We also purchased curriculum for the junior high and senior high entrepreneurship classes taught by Tim Rossow.
In April, the Foundation provided financial assistance to Chris Harris to attend entrepreneurship classes at Central Community College in Columbus. We take great pride in announcing that Chris was chosen “Entrepreneur of the Year” for his farm clean-up business.
In May, the Foundation partnered with the Bluejay Foundation in awarding a $1,000 career scholarship to Ashley Wallin. Ashley attends Northeast Community College in Norfolk majoring in banking and insurance. The graduating seniors of Newman Grove High School were presented with “seed money” gifts along with an invitation to return to Newman Grove to work and live.
In July, the Foundation sponsored a steak fry fundraiser in conjunction with the annual meeting of the membership. Over $3,000 was presented to the Newman Grove Community Club for improvements to the Community Building.
In October, the Foundation supported new businesses by providing financial assistance with advertising costs.
Completing their terms on the Fund Advisory Committee were Gene Wissenburg, Dennis McCloud and Zane Wondercheck. We thank them for their years of service and dedication. New members elected to the Fund Advisory Committee are Danette Edgell, Jim Hegemann, Jay C. Johnson and Brad Wallin. New officers elected for 2009-2010 are President-Randy Benson; Vice President-Tom Larson; Treasurer- Tim Rossow; and Secretary- Pam King.
The Foundation received total donations of $10,064.98 in 2009. The current balance on hand in the General Fund is $2,770.68 and the Endowment Fund balance is $57,301.75.
In 2008, the Foundation announced its “Friends of Newman Grove Challenge Fund” with a goal of raising $150,000 for the Endowment Fund. Through the generous giving of a group of individuals $50,000 was donated to use as the matching fund. In 2010 and thereafter, the goal of the Foundation is to raise an additional $100,000.
An endowment lasts forever because only the earnings are spent and the principal is never touched. One of the goals established by the Fund Advisory Committee is to find ways to assist existing businesses in Newman Grove and to look for opportunities for new businesses. To this end, we plan to run a series of articles featuring Newman Grove businesses in local newspapers.
We are optimistic about the future of Newman Grove and believe the “Good Life” we cherish in Nebraska is worth preserving and passing on to the next generation. We hope you will partner with us in achievements yet to be realized. Gifts may be sent to the Newman Grove Community Foundation, P. O. Box 504, Newman Grove, NE 68758- 0504.
Copyright ©2009 Newman Grove Reporter