CFV 2024 Annual Report

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Community Foundation of the Virginias, Inc.

At the end of this year, the 31st year of community foundation presence in our area, the members of the Board of Directors and staff of the Community Foundation of the Virginias, Inc. wish to express our deep appreciation for the wonderful support from our communities. The generosity of our communities has allowed the Foundation to grow from its meager beginnings to an organization with roughly $15 million in invested assets. That amount enables us to fund so many more organizations and their good work, and so many more young people seeking to further their education. And the primary reason for that growth is the contributions from fund donors and others donors who have so generously supported us with contributions and participation in our fund-raising events. So, from all of us at the Community Foundation of the Virginias, Inc., thank you, and we hope you will continue your wonderful support of the Foundation.

James “Smokey” Shott

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BOARD OFFICERS Meet the Board WHO WE ARE

Julie H. Johnson, President Gene Bailey, Vice President Mary Jo Babbitt, Secretary Melinda Testerman, Treasurer

STAFF

James H. “Smokey” Shott, Executive Director Rebekah Ritter, Administrative Assistant

CLASS OF 2024

Maggie Asbury, Mary Azzo, Carol Cofer, Kathy Shott, Peter Taylor, Melinda Testerman, Daniel Wells

CLASS OF 2025

Gene Bailey, Deborah Garton, Craig Hammond, Stacey Hicks, Rick Kendrick

CLASS OF 2026

Kathleen Blaydes, Tom Chaffins, Samuel Hill, Cathy Corte Payne, Mike Swatts

CLASS OF 2027

Jack Asbury, Mary Jo Babbitt, Julie Johnson, Doris Sue Kantor, Dan Shortridge

MEMBERSHIPS Chamber of Commerce of the Two Virginias Tazewell County Chamber of Commerce Philanthropy West Virginia Council on Foundations

ACCOUNTANT Brown, Edwards, & Co., L.L.P.

LEGAL Wayne Stonestreet of Katz, Kantor, Stonestreet & Buckner, PLLC

TRUSTEE BANKS Burke & Herbert Bank First Community Bank Truist

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2024 Committees EXECUTIVE Julie Johnson, Chair

SCHOLARSHIPS Tom Chaffins, Chair Maggie Asbury

Dan Shortridge, Immediate Past Chair James H. Shott, Executive Director Mary Jo Babbitt, Secretary Melinda Testerman, Treasurer Deborah Garton Rick Kendrick Peter Taylor FINANCE AND INVESTMENT Melinda Testerman, Treasurer James H. Shott, Executive Director Gene Bailey Sam Hill Julie Johnson Dan Shortridge Mike Swatts

Gene Bailey Carol Cofer Deborah Garton Cathy Corte Payne

Kathy Shott Mike Swatts Peter Taylor Daniel Wells

*Harry Kammer *Lisa Lineberry *Gerri Broyles Lamie *Ron Martin *Sharon Webster *Cathy Zimmerman

SPECIAL PROJECTS Mary Jo Babbitt, Chair Kathleen Blaydes Julie Johnson Kathy Shott Becky Ritter, Staff

GRANTS Kathleen Blaydes, Chair

Maggie Asbury Mary Jo Babbitt

Dan Shortridge, Chair James H. Shott NOMINATION

Gene Bailey Carol Cofer

Deborah Garton Craig Hammond Cathy Corte Payne Mike Swatts Peter Taylor Daniel Wells *Cathy Zimmerman

Gene Bailey Mike Swatts

*Denotes Volunteer Community Member

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The Community Foundation of the Virginias, Inc. promotes philanthropy by fostering charitable giving, serving our donors’ interests, and effectively responding to our communities’ needs and opportunities.

MISSION STATEMENT What Guides Us

Foundation History SERVING THE TWO VIRGINIAS

The Community Foundation of the Virginias, Inc. was formed by a merger of the Bluefield Area Foundation and the Greater Mercer County Charitable Foundation in June 2002. This joining together of talent, ideas, energy, and resources allowed the Foundation to better and more fully serve the residents of Mercer and McDowell Counties in West Virginia and Tazewell and Bland Counties in Virginia. Each of the organizations had a strong and established history of serving the charitable needs of the community. The Bluefield Area Foundation was established in 1993 and had experienced sustained growth due to the dedication and leadership of Foundation volunteer directors. A wide variety of non-profit organizations, providing health, human services, educational, and cultural programs, have directly benefited from grants awarded from the Foundation. The Greater Mercer County Charitable Foundation was founded in 1998. It was established to address the changing and varied needs of the community, and to provide assistance in the areas of education, the arts, health services, human services, and recreation, and to provide a number of college scholarships to area students. The efforts of the GMCCF have enhanced and improved the Greater Mercer County area. In March 2003, the Community Foundation of the Virginias announced the first grant recipients of the newly formed organization. The awards were made utilizing a competitive grants program and were administered by the Grants Committee. This committee was comprised of Foundation Directors and community members.

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Through the Grants Cycle in 2024, the Foundation’s Grants and Scholarships Programs have awarded over $6,606,000 to its communities. These awards have benefited a wide variety of programs, individuals, organizations, schools, and service groups. The flexibility of the Community Foundation ensures that the best programs and organizations continue to receive funding, while allowing for support of new programs and ideas as the community evolves. Philanthropic efforts are available to all through the Community Foundation of the Virginias. By pooling assets, supporters of all financial levels can join in support of their community. The Foundation provides an array of giving opportunities: memorial gifts, honorary donations, the establishment of new funds for named individuals or causes, legacy gifts through donations from estate planning, as well as monetary gifts of all sizes. The Community Foundation of the Virginias is just one example of the communities in our area joining together with the common goal of community improvement for all. Through the combined efforts of all area citizens, the community continues to grow and improve for today and the generations of tomorrow.

Our Counties WHERE WE SERVE

McDowell & Mercer Counties

Bland & Tazewell Counties

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SOCIETY OF FOUNDERS Our Heritage

The Community Foundation wishes to express its profound gratitude to the following individuals, families, financial institutions, businesses, and foundations who are honored as Founders in recognition of their special role in providing the initial funding of the Foundation, that ensured the establishment of the Foundation, and continues to sustain its operation and growth.

Ammar Family Richard and Jay Ammar Betty Gardner Bailey Bluefield Regional Medical Center Sallie Brevick Paul and Carol Cole Stelio J. and Betty T. Corte First Century Bank First Community Bank First Virginia Bank – Clinch Valley

Fred and Bernice Gilbert Rick Kendrick J. Franklin and Darnell Long Marshall Miller & Associates, Inc. Norfolk Southern Foundation Clara Perkinson Charles and Marjorie Peters Rose Sinicrope Katharine Tierney WVVA-TV

THE LEGACY SOCIETY Community Foundation of the Virginias, Inc. acknowledges the following who have informed us of their plans to leave a legacy to the community through a gift to the Foundation. Gifts can be made through bequests, retirement accounts, insurance policies, and charitable remainder trusts. We thank each donor for his or her forethought and generosity.

Anonymous Nick and Jeannie Ameli Floriene Austin Betty Gardner Bailey Lenabelle Bowen Donald W. Caudill, Ph.D. Henry Pleasant Cofer William D. Evans

Mabel Mahood Helen Louise Payne Clara Perkinson David Eugene Simmons Gladys Sinicrope

Margaret “Trika” Smith-Burke Maurice and Grace Weinberg

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FROM THE PRESIDENT Sharing and caring are words which come to mind about our Community Foundation. Our wonderful volunteers and compassionate donors embody this mantra. There is no greater blessing than sharing with others. The Community Foundation of the Virginias, Inc. is privileged to be the vessel to share donors’ generosity in supporting causes in education, health, arts and human services. Every dollar our grant and scholarship committees award brings more stability, assistance, and comfort to our communities. There are many opportunities to support causes close to your heart. Gifts made in memorial or in honor are a wonderful way to recognize someone special. Should you have a passionate cause, establishing a fund is a perfect way to show your support. Also, gifts can be made through your estate plan, leaving a legacy for generations. Our communities grow stronger when we care enough to share our time, treasures and talents. Give today! Julie H. Johnson

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WHAT WE DO

Where It Begins

GIVING

The good work of the Community Foundation of the Virginias, Inc. begins with the generosity of our donors. We provide people who love our region a way to easily give back and feel good about their charitable giving. Whether their desire is to support arts and culture, make the places we live even better, or to support the academic pursuits of our students, the Community Foundation is a professional partner and steward to put that passion into action. Ways to give include: Cash The simplest way to make a gift to the Foundation is with cash. Gifts can be dropped by The Foundation Office at: 128 North Street in Bluefield, West Virginia, or mailed to: Post Office Box 4127 Bluefield, West Virginia 24701. Appreciated Securities With a gift of appreciated securities (stocks and bonds), you avoid the capital gains tax that would be imposed if you sell the securities yourself, and you can take an income tax deduction. Other Appreciated Assets Please contact the Foundation to discuss gifts of closely held stock, real estate, or other appreciated assets. Bequests One of the more popular gift planning techniques, you can establish a fund at the Foundation through a bequest in your estate plans. This can be a certain amount or percentage of your estate to the Foundation. Such bequests are usually fully deductible under estate and inheritance laws. The Foundation will work with your team of planners to establish your bequest.

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Private Foundation Transfer Managing a family or private foundation can sometimes prove costly and difficult. The assets of a private foundation can be transferred to the Foundation where its identity and purpose can be maintained. Family members can serve as advisors, and the fund is relieved of excise taxes and other requirements. Deferred Gifts Gifts of life insurance, gifts from retirement accounts, charitable gift annuities, charitable remainder trusts, and charitable lead trusts are among the many ways to create a fund that carries out your charitable interest. Please consult your tax and legal advisors for additional information. Unrestricted Gifts given with no restriction, or instruction of how it is to be used, are important. These gifts provide our Board of Directors the most latitude and flexibility in responding to changing community needs in the broadest areas of charitable interests for the present and future. Restricted Gifts given with instruction on what use or fund they should be used for allows donors to name one or more specific nonprofit charitable organizations or area of need to receive grants from the fund. Honorarium Gifts Honor the people you care about with a donation made in their name at special occasions, such as birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and special ceremonies. The Community Foundation will notify them of your generous contribution. Memoriam Gifts Create a lasting tribute to a friend or loved one by giving a memorial donation. Notification will be provided to those designated to let them know of your generosity. ONE-TIME GIFTS

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ENDOWMENT FUND TYPES Establishing a Fund

Individuals, families or groups may wish to establish a permanent endowment fund. Donors may select the type of funds that best suits their charitable interests, name the fund, and determine how to fund it. A minimum of $10,000 is required to establish a fund. Build-A-Fund The Foundation’s Build-A-Fund option enables donors to develop a charitable fund over time. This opens the door to those who would like to give back to the community but have felt philanthropy was out of reach. The fund is established by making tax-deductible contributions of $2,000 or more for up to five years. Field-of-Interest This type of fund addresses the particular areas of charitable interest or needs of the donor, but does not limit grants to a particular nonprofit organization. Donor-Designated This type of fund allows donors to name one or more specific nonprofit charitable organizations or area of need to receive grants from the fund. Donor-Advised This type of fund allows donors or an appointed Advisory Committee to make periodic recommendations for grant distributions from the fund. Organization Endowment This type of fund allows nonprofit organizations to establish a named permanent endowment fund for their own benefit within the Foundation, rather than establishing and managing a separate fund or foundation.

Scholarship This type of fund provides opportunities for donors to aid area students in furthering their education.

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American Electric Power Community Service Fund For health, hunger, and housing Ammar Family Memorial Fund For beatification in the City of Bluefield, WV FOUNDATION FUNDS Meeting Needs and Impacting Neighbors Robert Austin Family Scholarship Fund For students attending Bluefield University Bailey Fund for the Historic Crab Orchard Museum Supports Historic Crab Orchard Museum Fannie Kate And Betty Gardner Bailey Fund Supports organizations that care for cats B. G. “Bev” And Rachel Blalock Family Fund Supports “Bible in the Schools” program Bluefield Daily Telegraph Literacy Fund For literacy initiatives Bluefield High School Endowment Fund Supports all facets of BHS Bluefield High School’s Alumni Fund Scholarship assistance for BHS seniors Anonymous Fund For community needs

Jane Bobbitt Scholarship Fund For PHS seniors majoring in nursing

Ghia M. Borg Memorial Fund For human needs

Bovenizer Pharmacy Scholarship Endowment Provides for pharmacy scholarships Pat And Harold Brewster Memorial Fund Support for Mercer Co. Humane Society Don And Brenda Brohard Scholarship Fund PHS scholarship assistance for seniors Glenn and Joyce Buchanan Fund For the benefit of Bluefield Union Mission and Appalachian Adult and Teen Challenge Charles And Rebecca Carter Fund To assist abused children Alfred And Shirley Wampler Caudill Endowment Fund Supports educational activities Alfred And Shirley Wampler Caudill Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance Child Protect of Mercer County, Inc. Endowment Fund For support of activities of Child Protect of Mercer County, Inc. Wayne Christian Scholarship Fund For PHS seniors majoring in healthcare Vain Colby Rising Star Memorial Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for performing arts

BHS Class Of ’56 Fund For emergency needs of BHS

Bluefield High School Class Of 1963 Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance Bluefield University Fund Scholarship assistance for Mercer and Tazewell County

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E.R. Gillespie Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for Shell Oil affiliation G.P., Inc. Fund Support of United Methodist family services Garton-Butler Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for college or tech school Glenwood Park Foundation, Inc. Fund Support for the elderly Graham High School Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for GHS seniors Grants Supermarket Fund Scholarship assistance for Grants affiliation C. B. And Ora Hunter Hancock Memorial Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for BHS seniors Harman Lodge #222, A.F. & A.M. Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for Lodge affiliations Harvest Blessings Fund For organizations supporting Christian activities Lindsay Rebekah Haun Memorial Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for PHS performing arts students Foundation of Health Services of The Virginias, Inc. Fund Scholarship assistance for students majoring in healthcare Hebrew Cemetery Fund For maintenance of the Hebrew Cemetery

Cole Harley-Davidson Military and First Responders Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for children of first responders or military personnel Tom Colley Memorial Fund Support for the Center for International Understanding Community Foundation of The Virginias Administrative Fund To defray expenses Jim Cox Memorial Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for Graham High School football players Iona Pauline Wilson Dooley Scholarship Fund Medical field scholarship assistance Larry And Patsy Douglas Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance Ruth Creasy And A. Elmo Fleshman Fund Support for female youth June Hearn Fletcher and Jack A. Fletcher Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance Lynn Marie Arnold Forlines Memorial Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for students attending Marshall University Community Action Grant Fund Supports community growth William D. Evans Fund For community betterment

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Janie Poteet Light Fund for Art Studies To support artistic ambitions William “Bill” Lineberry Memorial Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for the study of Automotive Technology Alex B. Mahood, Jr. Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for GHS and BHS students Sue Mandeville Scholarship Fund Assistance for PHS seniors majoring in nursing Bill And Juanita Marrs Endowment Fund for The Two Virginias For scholarship assistance and/or to provide financial assistance to non-profit organizations Mary Ellen And Ralph McCue Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for BHS Marsha A. Mead, Ph.D. Scholarship Endowment Scholarship assistance for psychology majors of BU Fund For Mercer County For service to low-income Mercer County residents Marshall Miller Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for engineering/geology Sandra Gayle Monk Memorial Fund Benefits handicapped citizens of Mercer County

Ed And Doris Hooker American History Fund

Financial Award for seniors at River View High School and Mount View High School Joetta Collins Hooker Memorial Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for River View and Mount View High seniors majoring in education Max L. And Virginia S. Kammer Family Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for students attending WVU Judge Jerome and Hilda R. Katz Memorial Fund To benefit youth Kendrick Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for athletes at Concord University Kendrick Bluefield State University Fund Scholarship assistance for athletes at BSU Ken And Rick Kendrick Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for PHS business majors Otis “Slim” Kidd Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for welding training Ralph H. And Shirley D. Kiser Family Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for students in the BU Ministerial program Dr. David A. Kovach Family Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for GHS seniors

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James C. Ramey, Sr. Memorial Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance

Mountain Heart Foundation Donor Designated Fund

Financial assistance for children with heart disease to attend Camp Mountain Heart Sylvester C. And Janice M. Myers Fund Support for the Wade Center Charles E. And Jerry Ann Myles Fund Support for Mercer Charitable Clinic Susanne Nelson Ph.D., Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for PHS seniors Cyrus Leroy And Blanche Mae Nicholson Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for students majoring in agriculture or art Helen Louise Payne and Henry Pleasant Cofer Fund for Bluefield, WV Benefits Bluefield, WV

Roy R. Raub, MD Memorial Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance

Ridge Runner Fund For upkeep of the Ridge Runner Train Rotary Club of Bluefield, WV Donor Designated Fund Unrestricted

Bonnie R. Shott Fund For support of the fine arts

Jeffrey Edward Shott Memorial Fund To benefit the youth of the area

Kathy and John Shott Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for students who have attended Mercer County Technical Education Center Joshua Lee Shutt Memorial Fund Scholarship assistance for PHS seniors and/or to aid the youth in Mercer County Rose Sinicrope Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for members of Sacred Heart Catholic Church William G. Skewes Memorial Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistances for engineering Michael Christopher Smith Memorial Fund Support for the community, historic and child benefit projects in the area

Lauren Alexis Perdue Memorial Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance to BHS

Perkinson Family Fund Supports youth projects

Charles A. And Marjorie M. Peters Fund Unrestricted Anne And Geno Preservati Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for studies in mechanics or accounting Quota Club of South Bluefield Foundation Fund Promotes health and welfare of women and children

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Margaret “Trika” Smith-Burke Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for RHS James And Rebecca Steorts Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for students attending Concord University majoring in business or English Anne And Luke Tabor Memorial Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for athletes at Concord University Warren Ashby And Elizabeth Featherstone Thornhill Memorial Fund Unrestricted Trails At Bluefield City Park Fund Provides maintenance/upkeep for the trails

Unrestricted Fund Unrestricted use to benefit the communities

Mary June Wall Charitable Fund To assist those with mental disabilities Lil Tony Webster “Forever 5” Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for Mercer Co. Maurice And Grace Hanna Weinberg Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance Doctor Jack Walter Witten Scholarship Fund Scholarship assistance for THS Yakkity-Yak Playground Fund Provides maintenance/upkeep for playground

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FOUNDATION FUNDS BY CATEGORY Meeting Needs and Impacting Neighbors DONOR ADVISED American Electric Power Community Service Fund Bluefield High School Endowment Fund Bluefield University Fund Charles and Rebecca Carter Fund Child Protect of Mercer County, Inc. Endowment Fund Harvest Blessings Fund Yakkity-Yak Playground Fund

DONOR DESIGNATED B.G. "Bev" and Rachel A. Blalock Family Fund Pat and Harold Brewster Memorial Fund Glenn and Joyce Buchanan Fund The Bailey Fund for the Historic Crab Orchard Museum G.P., Inc. Fund

Hebrew Cemetery Maintenance Fund Sylvester C. and Janice M. Myers Fund Charles E. and Jerry Ann Myles Fund

PASS THROUGH Ridge Runner Fund Michael Christopher Smith Memorial Fund Trails at Bluefield City Park Fund

SCHOLARSHIP OR GRANT Bill and Juanita Marrs Endowment Fund for the Two Virginias James and Rebecca Steorts Scholarship Fund

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GRANTS Community Foundation of the Virginias Administration Fund Ammar Family Memorial Fund Anonymous Fund

Fannie Kate and Betty Gardner Bailey Fund Bluefield Daily Telegraph Literacy Fund Bluefield High School Class of 1956

Ghia M. Borg Memorial Fund Community Action Grant Fund Alfred and Shirley Wampler Caudill Endowment Fund Tom Colley Memorial Fund William D. Evans Fund Ruth Creasy and A. Elmo Fleshman Fund Glenwood Park Foundation, Inc., Fund Judge Jerome and Hilda R. Katz Memorial Fund Janie Poteet Light Fund for Art Studies Fund for Mercer County Sandra Gayle Monk Memorial Fund Mountain Heart Foundation Donor Designated Fund Helen Louise Payne and Henry Pleasant Cofer Fund for Bluefield, WV Perkinson Family Fund Charles A. and Marjorie M. Peters Fund Quota Club of South Bluefield Foundation Fund Rotary Club of Bluefield, West Virginia Donor Designated Fund Bonnie R. Shott Fund Jeffrey Edward Shott Memorial Fund Warren Ashby and Elizabeth Featherstone Thornhill Memorial Fund Unrestricted Fund Mary June Wall Charitable Fund

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SCHOLARSHIPS Robert Austin Family Scholarship Fund Scholarship Bluefield High School Class of 1963 Scholarship Fund Scholarship Bluefield High Schools' Alumni Fund Scholarship Jane Bobbitt Scholarship Fund Bovenizer Pharmacy Scholarship Endowment Don and Brenda Brohard Scholarship Fund Alfred and Shirley Wampler Caudill Scholarship Fund Wayne Christian Scholarship Fund Vain Colby Rising Star Memorial Scholarship Fund Cole Harley-Davidson Military and First Responder Scholarship Fund Jim Cox Memorial Scholarship Fund Iona Pauline Wilson Dooley Scholarship Fund Larry and Patsy Douglas Scholarship Fund June Hearn Fletcher and Jack A. Fletcher Scholarship Fund Lynn Marie Arnold Forlines Scholarship Fund Garton-Butler Scholarship Fund Graham High School Scholarship Fund E.R. Gillespie Scholarship Fund Grants Supermarket Fund Scholarship C. B. and Ora Hunter Hancock Memorial Scholarship Fund

Harman Lodge #222, A.F. & A.M. Scholarship Fund Lindsay Rebekah Haun Memorial Scholarship Fund Joetta Collins Hooker Memorial Scholarship Fund Ed and Doris Hooker American History Fund Foundation of Health Services of the Virginias, Inc. Max L. and Virginia S. Kammer Family Scholarship Fund Ken and Rick Kendrick Scholarship Fund Kendrick Bluefield State University Fund Kendrick Scholarship Fund Otis "Slim" Kidd Scholarship Fund Ralph H. and Shirley D. Kiser Family Scholarship Fund Dr. David A. Kovach Family Scholarship Fund William "Bill" Lineberry Memorial Scholarship Fund Alex B. Mahood, Jr. Scholarship Fund Sue Mandeville Scholarship Fund

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SCHOLARSHIPS Mary Ellen and Ralph McCue Scholarship Fund Marsha A. Mead, Ph.D. Scholarship Endowment Marshall Miller Scholarship Fund Susanne Nelson, Ph.D. Scholarship Fund Cyrus Leroy and Blanche Mae Nicholson Scholarship Fund Lauren Alexis Perdue Memorial Scholarship Fund Ann and Geno Preservati Scholarship Fund

James C. Ramey, Sr. Memorial Scholarship Fund Roy R. Raub, M.D. Memorial Scholarship Fund Kathy and John Shott Scholarship Fund

Joshua Lee Shutt Memorial Fund Rose Sinicrope Scholarship Fund

William G. Skewes Memorial Scholarship Fund Margaret "Trika" Smith-Burke Scholarship Fund Anne and Luke Tabor Memorial Scholarship Fund Lil Tony Webster "Forever 5" Scholarship Fund Maurice and Grace Hanna Weinberg Scholarship Fund Doctor Jack Walter Witten Scholarship Fund

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How It Works GRANTMAKING

The Community Foundation of the Virginias, Inc. awarded a total of $482,096.54 in grants to area non-profit organizations in support of their beneficial projects in 2024. In the Foundation’s 28 year of grantmaking, an investment of more than $4 million has been made in our area for awarded projects. th The Community Foundation awards discretionary and field of interest grants to 501(c)(3) and other non=profit organizations serving Mercer County, West Virginia, Tazewell County, Virginia, and the surrounding area in four areas of charitable giving: Education, Health, Human Services, and Arts & Humanities. Applications are accepted annually beginning April 1 and must be received in the Foundation office or postmarked by June 30. For additional information, organizations are encouraged to contact The Community Foundation office.

2024 GRANTMAKING OVERVIEW

10 Education Grants Totaling Grants Applications Summary

$30,532.23

11 Denied

4 Health Grants Totaling

$13,000.00

$234,653.14

36 Human Service Grants Totaling

3 Ineligible

$203,911.17

20 Arts & Humanities Grants Totaling

Pass Through Grants Awarded $125,782.18

Total of All Grants Awarded in 2024 $650,299.93

Donor Advised Grants Awarded $27,200.00

Donor Designated Grants Awarded $15,221.21

Grant Applications Awarded $482,096.54

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Grants in Action BLUEFIELD PRIMARY SCHOOL

Bluefield High School Mentoring Program and student achievement incentives were the focus for the 2024 Bluefield Primary School grant. BHS student/mentors (“Bluefield Buddies”) mentor second graders. The supportive framework targeted social skills while building positive relationships and collaboration with STEM activities. Studies have shown that students participating in mentoring programs have increased high school graduation rates, improved behaviors, and better attitudes about school. Rewarding student achievement creates a positive school and community culture. This grant also supported activities involved with awarding BPS Student of the Month activities.

“On behalf of all the students, teachers, administrative staff and parents involved in these programs, we thank you. Your funding has provided a lifetime of memories, positive relationships and academic opportunities. Your generous support has made a significant difference to our students’ educational journeys.” – Cindy Stonestreet

“We greatly thank you for the grant monies to purchase these beautiful tables for my first-grade classroom. The students love them. It sure has made it easier for group collaborations and projects.” - Diana Sandifer The second grant awarded to Bluefield Primary School provided round tables for the first grade. They provided larger work areas for the STEAM activities and allowed students to work and collaborate closely in small groups for improved teamwork. $5,127.88 $1,646.35 Both education grants were made possible by the following funds: Judge Jerome & Hilda R. Katz Memorial Fund; Warren Ashby & Elizabeth Featherstone Thornhill Memorial Fund; and the Helen Louise Payne & Henry Pleasant Cofer Fund

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“We make a living by what we get...

... we make a life by what we give.” - Winston Churchill

FINANCIAL SNAPSHOT

Endowments by Fund Type

Donor Designated $155,221.21

Donor Advised $27,200.00

Grants $482,096.54

Pass Through $125,782.18

Scholarship $321,100.00

Grant Distributions by Category

Arts & Humanities $203,911.17

Human Services $234,653.14

Education $30,532.23 $971,399.93 2024 Total Funds Awarded

Health $13,000

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Impact in Action 2024 AWARDED GRANTS

$482,096.54

EDUCATION GRANTS Appalachian South Folklife Center’s Learning Day Camp F or supplies for the Learning Day Camp $4,000.00 Unrestricted Fund Bluefield Primary School For the purchase of four tables for classroom $1,646.35 Judge Jerome and Hilda R. Katz Memorial Fund; Warren Ashby and Elizabeth Featherstone Thornhill Memorial Fund; Helen Louise Payne and Henry Pleasant Cofer Fund for Bluefield, WV Bluefield University Department of Communication Arts For the annual cost of the RAMPAGE

Chamber of Commerce of the Two Virginias - Reading Bee To support Mercer and Tazewell County Reading Bees $4,500.00 Unrestricted Fund; Bluefield Daily Telegraph Literacy Fund To directly support CIS-AH school based programming in Tazewell County (this grant cannot be used for salaries, taxes, or employee benefits) $2,500.00 Charles A. and Marjorie M. Peters Fund Community Connections, Inc. To partner with first responders to provide educational programs at The Wade Center to change perception of law enforcement $3,083.00 Ghia M. Borg Memorial Fund Mercer County Read Aloud To purchase books and materials needed for the “Leap Into Science” program with various stations and snacks $3,400.00 Fund for Mercer County Communities In Schools of Appalachian Highlands

publication $3,000.00 Unrestricted Fund

Bluefield University’s New Opportunity School for Women To provide educational experiences and room and board for participants $1,275.00 Alfred and Shirley Wampler Caudill Endowment Fund

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EDUCATION GRANTS Montcalm High School To provide a banquet for scholars and athletes, movie, and small gift $2,000.00 Unrestricted Fund

EDUCATION GRANTS SUBTOTAL

$30,532.23

HEALTH GRANTS Bland Ministry Center and Dental Clinic

Mission Dental Virginia, Inc. For lab supplies for the milling machine focusing on Tazewell County patients $2,500.00 Unrestricted Fund

To purchase disposables and small equipment for the Tazewell County portion of the school based oral health program $2,500.00 Unrestricted Fund Mercer County Health Department To provide back packs and supplies to Mercer County students participation in the free sports physical program $5,000.00 Unrestricted Fund

Virginia Dental Association Foundation For the MOM program serving Tazewell County $3,000.00 Ghia M. Borg Memorial Fund

HEALTH GRANTS SUBTOTAL

$13,000.00

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HUMAN SERVICES GRANTS Appalachian Agency for Senior Citizens To provide refrigerators, water heaters, and chair lifts to low-income seniors in Tazewell County $7,500.00 Unrestricted Fund; Ghia M. Borg Memorial Fund For the purchase of beef and dairy products and produce from local farmers and distribution costs for Tazewell County Residents $7,500.00 Unrestricted Fund Calvary’s Hill Church To provide food, clothes, shoes, school supplies, backpacks, and personal hygiene items at the “Back to School” event $5,000.00 Unrestricted Fund Catholic Charties West Virginia, Inc. For support of the Personal Care Pantry $4,500.00 Ghia M. Borg Memorial Fund Child Protect of Mercer County, Inc. To implement “Basic Needs Expansion Project” $15,000.00 Unrestricted Fund; Jeffrey Edward Shott Memorial Fund Appalachian Sustainable Development

City of Bluefield, WV - Fire Department

To purchase 20 radio batteries; 20 flashlights; 16 traffic cones; and rechargeable power flares $7,627.00 Helen Louise Payne and Henry Pleasant Cofer Fund for Bluefield, WV City of Bluefield, WV - Police Department To purchase three new cage partitions for vehicles $2,500.00 Helen Louise Payne and Henry Pleasant Cofer Fund for Bluefield, WV City of Bluefield, WV - Police Department To purchase a new evidence locker $2,500.00 Helen Louise Payne and Henry Pleasant Cofer Fund for Bluefield, WV City of Bluefield, West Virginia For the support of a three part project that will allow for expansion of the dog run sections at the Mercer County Animal Shelter $7,500.00 Fund for Mercer County

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HUMAN SERVICES GRANTS City of Bluefield, West Virginia To fund cages, cleaners, flashlights, cameras and essential equipment for the Animal Control Department $7,694.72 Helen Louise Payne and Henry Pleasant Cofer Fund for Bluefield, WV City of Princeton Police Department To sponsor a program for children to re enforce a positive relationship with the police department $1,040.00 Fund for Mercer County Clearfork Volunteer Fire Department To purchase a Generac 22kw generator $12,768.50 Unrestricted Fund Feeding Southwest Virginia For the support of food distribution in Tazewell County $2,000.00 Unrestricted Fund

Girl Scouts of Black Diamond Council, Inc. To provide funding for "The Girl Scout Leadership Experience" program for girls at Bluefield Intermediate School and Bluefield Primary School $3,000.00 Ruth Creasy and A. Elmo Fleshman Fund; Perkinson Family Fund; Quota Club of South Bluefield Foundation Fund Helpful Harvest Food Bank To purchase two shipping containers for storage; the installation of a privacy fence for safeguarding trucks and trailers; household hygiene and baby essentials and food $13,560.31 Unrestricted Fund To provide funds for half of a wish of a Mercer County, WV child with a critical illness $2,500.00 Unrestricted Fund Mary's Cradle To provide funding for convertible cribs Make-A-Wish Foundation of Greater PA & WV

Friends of Tazewell County Community Cats, Inc.

To trap, neuter-spay, vaccinate and return feral and unowned community colony cats in Tazewell County $1,000.00 Fannie Kate and Betty Gardner Bailey Fund

to families $8,000.00 Unrestricted Fund

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HUMAN SERVICES GRANTS

Mercer County Fellowship Home, Inc. To purchase and install wireless security system and purchase a leaf blower $798.00 Unrestricted Fund Point of Contact Food Pantry To supply food for food pantry to feed the community $2,500.00 Unrestricted Fund Project You Matter To purchase an enclosed trailer and provide food bags, sleeping material, clothing and toiletries and bibles for Mercer County and surrounding areas $2,500.00 Unrestricted Fund Sacred Heart Catholic Church Food Pantry For food pantry support $25,000.00 Unrestricted Fund; Ghia M. Borg Memorial Fund Salvation Army of Mercer County To provide utility and rental assistance to those in need $10,000.00 Unrestricted Fund; Ghia M. Borg Memorial Fund; Fund for Mercer County

Save A Pet Food Bank To support the pet food bank at the Union Mission $1,000.00 Fannie Kate and Betty Gardner Bailey Fund Second Chance for Cats, Inc. To provide spay/neuter services and rabies vaccinations for feral cats $164.61 Fannie Kate and Betty Gardner Bailey Fund Southwest Virginia Community College Educational Foundation To fund the sourcing of bulk food materials, packaging supplies for two "Day of Service" events and the initial stock for the "Food for Thought" food pantries $5,000.00 Unrestricted Fund Town of Bluefield, Virginia - Police Department To purchase 2024 Can-Am Utility Vehicle $10,000.00 Unrestricted Fund

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HUMAN SERVICES GRANTS

Town of Bluefield, Virginia For funds to assist in the purchase and installation of a heavy-duty vehicle lift for garage $14,000.00 Helen Louise Payne and Henry Pleasant Cofer Fund for Bluefield, WV Town of Pocahontas, Virginia - Police Department To provide support for the local "Shop with a Cop" program $4,500.00 Unrestricted Fund Town of Richlands Fire Rescue (Fire Division) For the replacement of SCBA Air Packs $15,000.00 Unrestricted Fund Town of Richlands Fire Rescue (Rescue Division) To purchase a Lucas CPR compression device; carry case; two batteries and charger $10,000.00 Unrestricted Fund

Town of Richlands, Virginia - Police Department

To purchase a K-9 dog for narcotics detection; training for the handler; K-9 kennel system for police vehicle and for handlers’ home $5,000.00 Unrestricted Fund WISE (DBA) - WV Community Services for Women, Inc. To provide funding for School Care Closets for schools in Mercer, Tazewell and McDowell Counties $7,500.00 Unrestricted Fund; Quota Club of South Bluefield Foundation Fund WV's Promise Youth Alliance, Inc. To assist to place AmeriCorps VISTA members in Mercer and McDowell counties $2,500.00 Helen Louise Payne and Henry Pleasant Cofer Fund for Bluefield, WV Young Life To support the Fall 2024 and Summer 2025 camp transportation fees $5,000.00 Unrestricted Fund

HUMAN SERVICES GRANTS SUBTOTAL

$234,653.14

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ARTS & HUMANITIES GRANTS

4PALS Productions, Inc. To help fund a "1928 Christmas" show at the Granada for the community by providing organist, advertising, and costuming $3,000.00 Unrestricted Fund; Charles A. and Majorie M. Peters Fund Barter Foundation, Inc . To present one performance of "The Ugly Duckling" at the Wade Center $1,300.00 Unrestricted Fund Bluefield Arts and Revitalization Corporation To purchase DVDs and books for development and expansion of lesson plans for the LIFE program $15,000.00 Unrestricted Fund Bluefield Beautification Commission For stone sign, wall and plants for Castoria's Garden $16,811.00 Unrestricted Fund; Ammar Family Memorial Fund Bluefield High School - Theatre Department For the production of the 2025 Spring musical $5,000.00 BHS Endowment Fund; BHS Class of 1956 Fund

Bluewell Improvement Association To purchase 28 hanging flower baskets and 10 ground planters $3,700.00 Unrestricted Fund Charles T. "Chuck" Mathena II Foundation, Inc. To provide an available and affordable venue for Mercer County Schools and City of Bluefield, West Virginia - Parks & Rec Department To purchase basketballs; jerseys, whistles, game books, game clock and horn for the B&B Beavers youth basketball league $7,000.00 Helen Louise Payne and Henry Pleasant Cofer Fund for Bluefield, WV City of Princeton Board of Park and Rec Commissioners To remove the existing fence surrounding the Knob Street basketball courts and erect a new fence and gates $15,000.00 Helen Louise Payne and Henry Pleasant Cofer Fund for Bluefield, WV non-profits $2,500.00 Unrestricted Fund

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ARTS & HUMANITIES GRANTS

Dogwood Theatricals For the purchase of a laptop and refurbished iPhone and cell phone service for one year $1,821.00 Unrestricted Fund Four Seasons YMCA For the installation and purchase of an outdoor covered playground $10,000.00 Unrestricted Fund; Anonymous Fund Friends of Pinnacle Rock State Park To provide food and music for a "Picnic in the Park" event at Pinnacle Rock

Mercer County Special Olympics West Virginia To provide program support three athletic sports: track, cheerleading and

basketball $2,000.00

Sandra Gayle Monk Memorial Fund; Jeffrey Edward Shott Memorial Fund Outside Dreams For trail and site development to accommodate individuals with disabilities $80,000.00 Mary June Wall Charitable Fund For performance equipment: poles, flags, poms, rifles, and supplies for the color guard team $10,000.00 Unrestricted Fund PikeView Middle School - Music Department To purchase a four-octave set of bronze handbells, tables, padding, mallets, folders, gloves and maintenance kit for the Music Department $10,000.00 Unrestricted Fund PikeView High School - Color Guard Team

State Park $2,000.00 Unrestricted Fund

Gary Bowling's House of Art To replace and repair damaged

showcases $2,000.00 Unrestricted Fund; Bonnie R. Shott Fund

Mercer County Historical Society, Inc.

To provide support for the Mercer County Heritage Festival 2024 $2,500.00 Unrestricted Fund

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ARTS & HUMANITIES GRANTS

Those Who Served War Museum, Inc. To replace existing sign with larger sign with LED display $10,000.00 Helen Louise Payne and Henry Pleasant Cofer Fund for Bluefield, WV

Wade Center (DBA) - Westminster at Wade To purchase fitted stage curtains, shipping and installation $4,279.17 Unrestricted; Jeffrey Edward Shott Memorial Fund

ARTS & HUMANITIES GRANTS SUBTOTAL $234,653.14

DONOR DESIGNATED GRANTS Bible in the School in Mercer County $1,680.07 The B.G. “Bev” and Rachel Blalock Family Fund

Second Chance for Cats, Inc. $835.39 The Pat and Harold Brewster Memorial Fund Town of Bramwell, West Virginia $1,354.17 The Hebrew Cemetary Fund Wade Center (DBA) - Westminster at Wade $720.83 The Sylvester C. and Janice M. Myers Fund

Burlington United Methodist Family Services, Inc. $630.75 The G.P., Inc. Fund

Historic Crab Orchard Museum $10,000.00 The Bailey Fund for the Historic Crab Orchard Museum

DONOR DESIGNATED GRANTS SUBTOTAL $15,221.21

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DONOR ADVISED GRANTS ABEL Crisis Pregnancy Center, Inc. $1,000.00 The Harvest Blessings Fund

Fellowship International Mission - Eric & Kristanna Richardson $4,000.00 The Harvest Blessings Fund Heaven Sent Ministries General Fund Food Packing Nick & April Cunninham Support $3,000.00 The Harvest Blessings Fund Positive Alternative Radio (PAR) - Spirit FM $600.00 The Harvest Blessings Fund Presbyterian Children’s Home of the Highlands $600.00 The Charles and Rebecca Carter Fund

ABWE Foundation Ukraine, Southern Ministry Ukraine, Crisis Fund Account Ukraine, Team Fund Account Holly Friesen $15,000.00 The Harvest Blessings Fund Appalachian Teen Challenge $2,000.00 The Harvest Blessings Fund Bluefield Union Mission $1,000.00 The Harvest Blessings Fund

DONOR ADVISED GRANTS SUBTOTAL

$27,200.00

PASS THROUGH GRANTS Michael Christopher Smith Memorial Fund

Clinch Valley Community Action Group Inc. for Camp Joy - Demo of Delaware Cabin, Install of Water Lines, Renovation of Office and Nurse Station, Roofing, Electrical, and Repair of Cracks and Paint for the Picnic Shelter and Recreation Center $75,782.18

City of Bluefield Playground Fund $50,000.00

PASS THROUGH GRANTS SUBTOTAL

$125,782.00

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SCHOLARSHIPS 209 140

Bland County High School Graham High School Richlands High School Tazewell High School Bluefield High School Montcalm High School Pikeview High School Princeton Senior High School Mountview High School Riverview High School Mercer County Technical Education Center Tazewell County Career & Technical School Homeschool Students of our Service Area SCHOOLS WE SERVE

Total Scholarships Awarded

Total Scholarship Recipents

$321,100 Total Awarded

THANK YOU SCHOLARSHIP DONORS

Did you know: Several scholarships are available for current college students who are residents of our service area. Fifteen scholarships are renewable scholarships and several provide funding through graduate school.

West Virginia University TOP ATTENDED SCHOOLS 21 Concord University 20 Bluefield State University 21 Marshall University 12

WHERE THEY ARE HEADED

31%

57%

Virginia Schools

West Virginia Schools

10

Southwest Virginia Community College

8

Bluefield University

8%

4%

Out-of-State Schools

Technical School

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SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS BY FUND NAME

Robert Austin Family Scholarship Fund

$7,500.00

Jane Bobbitt Scholarship Fund

$4,000.00

Bovenizer Pharmacy Scholarship Endowment

$1,500.00

Don and Brenda Brohard Scholarship Fund

$4,000.00

Wayne Christian Scholarship Fund

$4,000.00

Cole Harley-Davidson Military and First Responder Scholarship Fund

$3,000.00

Iona Pauline Wilson Dooley Scholarship Fund

$2,000.00

Larry and Patsy Douglas Scholarship Fund

$2,000.00

June Hearn Fletcher and Jack A. Fletcher Scholarship Fund

$1,000.00

Garton-Butler Scholarship Fund

$3,000.00

Graham High School Scholarship Fund

$2,000.00

Grants Supermarket Fund

$1,750.00

C. B. and Ora Hunter Hancock Memorial Scholarship Fund

$1,500.00

Harman Lodge #222, A.F. & A.M. Scholarship Fund

$3,000.00

Ed and Doris Hooker American History Fund

$1,000.00

Joetta Collins Hooker Memorial Scholarship Fund

$2,000.00

Foundation of Health Services of the Virginias, Inc.

$5,000.00

Kammer Family Scholarship Fund

$2,000.00

Ken and Rick Kendrick Scholarship Fund

$12,000.00

Kendrick Bluefield State University Fund

$5,000.00

Kendrick Scholarship Fund for Concord University Athletes

$10,000.00

Ralph H. and Shirley D. Kiser Family Scholarship Fund

$5,000.00

Dr. David A. Kovach Family Scholarship Fund

$2,500.00

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SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS BY FUND NAME

William "Bill" Lineberry Memorial Scholarship Fund

$5,000.00

Alex B. Mahood, Jr. Scholarship Fund

$6,000.00

Sue Mandeville Scholarship Fund

$4,000.00

Mary Ellen and Ralph McCue Scholarship Fund

$3,000.00

Marsha A. Mead, Ph.D. Scholarship Endowment

$1,200.00

Marshall Miller Scholarship Fund

$15,000.00

Cyrus Leroy and Blanche Mae Nicholson Scholarship Fund

$12,000.00

Lauren Alexis Perdue Memorial Scholarship Fund

$1,000.00

Ann and Geno Preservati Scholarship Fund

$12,000.00

James C. Ramey, Sr. Memorial Scholarship Fund

$7,000.00

Roy R. Raub, M.D. Memorial Scholarship Fund

$18,700.00

Joshua Lee Shutt Memorial Fund

$5,500.00

Rose Sinicrope Scholarship Fund

$8,000.00

William G. Skewes Memorial Scholarship Fund

$1,500.00

Margaret "Trika" Smith-Burke Scholarship Fund

$35,450.00

Anne and Luke Tabor Memorial Scholarship Fund

$4,000.00

Lil Tony Webster "Forever 5" Scholarship Fund

$2,000.00

Maurice and Grace Hanna Weinberg Scholarship Fund

$92,000.00

Doctor Jack Walter Witten Scholarship Fund

$3,000.00

SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS BY FUND

$321,100.00

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2024 DONOR HONOR ROLL

Jeffrey V. Mendell & George Edgar Adkins, Jr. Eleanor R. Ammar David & Margaret Asbury Walid & Mary Azzo Mary Jo Babbitt Gene Bailey Jim Baker

Charlie & Terri Cole Bill & Brownie Cole Richard D. & Kimberly D. Comer Lyle & Debbie Cottle Danny & Diana Coulthard Mark T. & Denise Guthrie Cox Edna J. Hawkins Cox Connie Cox

Jay Barringer Cathy Beckett

Melissa Currence Betty Neil Cutlip Gene P. Damron

Dwayne & Diane Belcher Roland & Patti Belcher

Jeff & Holly Disibbio Jane Dooley-Stuart Paul & Sandra Dorsey Larry & Patsy Douglas Robert E. Duff, Sr. Karen Dye Wayne & Cheryl Evans Bill Evans

John & Carol Biggs George Birkelbach Marie Blackwell

Gary & Vinnie Blake Mary J. Blankenship Anita Blaydes Steve & Kathleen Blaydes Randy & Shirley Borne Elizabeth K. Bowles Harold & Deborah Brewster Frank & Linda Britton

Harry Farmer Phyllis Ferrell Marty Gearheart John & Donna George Gale Gillespie Carl C. Gillespie, Jr. James C. & Elizabeth Goforth Craig & Sis Hammond Dr. Cary Smith Hart Elissa Righter Hart-Mahan James C. Harvey Linda O. Hash Mike Hastings Patrick L. & Melissa O. Haye Linda N. Hoge

Kimberly Brown Glenn Buchanan Barbara J. Buchanan Harold & Bonnie Buckner Russell T. Burney, Jr. Deborah K. Garton & Frederick Butler

Robert & Cathy Buzzo Mary Jane Campbell Thomas & Martha Chaffins George R. Chandler, Jr. Carol A. Cofer

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2024 DONOR HONOR ROLL Robert Jackson Robert Jackson Howard Marshall Jarrett Dick & Julie Johnson Dena L. Johnston Joyce Johnston Norris & Doris Sue Kantor

Patrick C. Moore Robert Barnes Moore Lawrence & Carolyn Morhous Kenneth W. Murphy, Jr. Darla & Keith Olson Domenick & Michaele Pellillo Robert E. Perkinson, Jr. Dafney K. Peters Elenor Reid Patricia Richardson Rebekah Ritter Peter & Debbi Romano Polla Rumberg Rachel & George Sanborn Steven & Alice Ann Sarver Byron & Gail Satterfield Rick & Connie Saunders Shirley Saunders Ancil & Regina Sayers Robert & April Schumacher David & Brenda Scruggs Michael & Jacqueline Shahan James Shanklin Dan & Connie Shortridge Chris Shott John & Kathy Shott Karen A. Shott James H. “Smokey” & Diane Shott

David Katz Joe Keatley K. A. Kemmerer, III

Martin T. “Rick” Kendrick E. G. “Ken” Kendrick, Jr. David & Bobbi Kersey Don & Becky Kersey

Stan & Grey Kiser Charlene Kovach

Brian & Deborah Krabbe Muthusami Kuppusami Henry & Diane Lambert Gerri Broyles Lamie Claire & Terry Lampert Jackson Largen Ellen P. Light Lisa S. Lineberry David & Evelyn Linkous Jesse Lipson Patrick & Sandra Malamisura Henry Malkin

Carl & Linda Mariotti Richard "Drew" Marrs Richard Marrs Cecil & Amy Marson Alfred C. Mead, Jr. Paula Mitchell G. Walker Moore

Edward L. Shutt Justin B. Simon Tom Snow

Margaret Snow Karen S. Sowder Wayne & Cindy Stonestreet

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