Radio Inteview

WBTM 8-6-12 interview

Hear this 5 minute overview of The Community Foundation by Debra Dodson, Executive Director

Community Foundation meets National Standards

Community Foundation in Top Philanthropic Tier Nationally

Local Organization Meets Rigorous Standards for Quality and Accountability

 Danville, VA – The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region recently received notification that it has met for the second time the nation’s highest philanthropic standards for operational quality, integrity and accountability. The notice comes from the Community Foundations National Standards Board, a national accreditation organization based in Arlington, Va.

“This is similar to the Good Housekeeping Seal for community foundations,” said Diane Miller, Manager, Community Foundations National Standards Board. “It says that The Community Foundation has demonstrated a commitment to operational quality, integrity and accountability.”

The National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations program requires community foundations to document their policies for donor services, investments, grantmaking and administration. With over 200 community foundations already confirmed in compliance nationwide, the program is designed to provide quality assurance to donors, as well as to their legal and financial advisors. Community foundations must submit documentation for recompliance every five years.

“This is critically important to our donors,” said Debra L. Dodson, Executive Director of The Community Foundation. “When people make a memorial gift, set up a charitable bequest, or establish a fund, they are putting their trust in us. They are counting on us to manage the investment wisely and honor their charitable wishes. The National Standards confirmation says our house is in order.”

The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region was established in 1996 and currently has assets of more than $23 million, with $1 million awarded annually in grants and scholarships. The foundation works with individuals and groups to establish a range of charitable funds, allowing donors to advance a cause such as education or the environment, support an individual organization, provide flexible support for community needs or recommend individual grants. In addition to affirming the organization’s philanthropic services, the confirmation validates The Community Foundation’s grantmaking practices for the nonprofit community.

“Some say it’s easier to create wealth than to give money away wisely,” said Niki Fallis, Community Foundation board president. “There’s some truth in that. Grantmaking is a lot like investing… we need to assess risks, weigh potential gains, diversify assets, monitor performance and operate fairly. When you see the National Standards Seal, you can be assured that we’re committed to meeting the highest standards for grantmaking as well.”

The National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations program is the first of its kind for charitable foundations in the United States.

Through philanthropic services, strategic investments and community leadership, The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region helps people support the causes they care about, now and for generations to come. For more information, contact the foundation at 541 Loyal Street, Danville, VA  24541, or call 434-793-0884 or visit www.cfdrr.org.

The Community Foundations National Standards Board is a supporting organization of the Council on Foundations that administers and advances National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations by ensuring the integrity of the accreditation process and building the value of compliance. Visit www.cfstandards.org for more information about the program and organization.

Danville Braves to host Military Appreciation Night July 13, 2012

 

Danville Braves Military Appreciation Night to be held Friday, July 13

Camouflage themed jerseys and Sgt. Slaughter appearance highlight event

DANVILLE, Va. – The Danville Braves have announced plans for the team’s upcoming Military Appreciation Night presented by Danville Scion, Angus Heating & Air, and Blue Ridge Beverage, which will be held on Friday, July 13 when the D-Braves play the Princeton Rays.   First Pitch is set for 7:00 p.m.

The D-Braves will welcome WWE Hall of Fame inductee and G.I. Joe, Sgt. Slaughter.  For the first time ever, the D-Braves will wear a unique camouflage jersey design and hold an in-game silent auction.  Fans can bid on a chance to win a game-worn jersey directly off the player’s back!  Bids increase in $25.00 increments.  Bidding on the jerseys will run through the end of the seventh inning and the team will have a post-game pick-up for all silent auction winners.

All proceeds generated by the auction will be donated to the Danville Veteran’s Memorial.  The Danville Veteran’s Memorial features a 7 foot high by 158 foot black granite wall, which pays homage to all local veterans who died in our Nation’s wars from the American Revolution to our current conflicts.

Another aspect of Military Appreciation Night is that all military personnel and dependents, both active and retired, will receive a free ticket for the game.  Tickets may be purchased by calling the D-Braves at (434) 797-3792 or by bringing a valid military I.D. to the ALP 325 Field Box Office on the day of the game.  For more information please visit their Web site at www.dbraves.com.

For more information on the Veteran’s Memorial, please visit https://www.cfdrr.org/give/donor-stories/veterans-memorial-fund/.

Dan River Region Collaborative receives grant to support manufacturing jobs

DANVILLE, VA –The Dan River Region Collaborative has been selected to receive a $32,352 grant to support manufacturing jobs in the Dan River Region, according to Project Director Julie J. Brown.

The project, which is being supported by the National Fund for Workforce Solutions and The Boeing Company, will support on-the-job training opportunities for new hires within the manufacturing sector.

“The labor-intense style of manufacturing has been replaced with new production methods, requiring workers to use computers, higher level mathematical skills, and a team-centered approach,” commented Brown in discussing the importance of the grant. “While many of these skills can be attained through the region’s community colleges, workers must often learn to use a specific piece of machinery once hired and embrace a work culture that may be very different from their previous experiences.”

The Collaborative’s Advanced Manufacturing Partnership was formed in September 2011 to address the region’s changing workforce needs. Currently, 19 companies participate in the partnership, which continues to expand. The Collaborative has initially partnered with two companies for the grant opportunity: Amthor International and Intertape Polymer Group (IPG), Inc. Both companies anticipate new hires within the next three months.

“Amthor will significantly benefit from this project as we hope to recruit and train 30-40 employees for production, manufacturing, and assembly. The OJT funds will be used to provide welding, mechanical, and electrical training for our new employees,” according to Brian Amthor, Marketing and H.R. Director for Amthor International.

Amthor is the nation’s largest and most diverse manufacturer of truck-mounted tanks, which includes uses for the vacuum and septic, portable restroom, propane, water, refined fuel, well drilling, and construction industries. Located in Gretna, Amthor currently employs 74 individuals.

“IPG, Inc. anticipates hiring several new plant assistants whose responsibilities include working safely with machine operators to insure the quality and quantity of the final product meets expectations,” commented Carl Shoemaker, HR Director for the IPG, Inc. Danville plant. “Because of the skills required in this position, the OJT funds will be invaluable as they help us to better prepare workers in the areas of safety, ERP, forklift, product quality standards, ISO 9001 and 14001, and specific machine training,” he added.

Intertape Polymer Group Inc. is a recognized leader in the development and manufacture of specialized polyolefin plastic and paper based packaging products and complementary packaging systems for industrial and retail use. Headquartered in Montreal, Quebec and Sarasota / Bradenton, Florida, the company employs approximately 2,000 employees with operations in 12 locations, including 10 manufacturing facilities in North America and one in Europe. They employ 283 individuals at the Danville facility.

If Amthor and Intertape are unable to hire the anticipated number of entry level workers within the established time frame, the Collaborative will identify additional employers who may be willing to participate and meet the grant requirements.

The Dan River Region Collaborative, which was formed in the summer of 2008, serves approximately 150,000 people in Pittsylvania, Halifax, Henry, and Patrick counties and the cities of Danville and Martinsville. The Collaborative is supported by the National Fund for Workforce Solutions which utilizes a dual-customer effort through investments in organizing employers, creating workforce partnerships, and advocating for public policies and private practices that make businesses more competitive and workers more likely to earn family-sustaining wages. The Collaborative invests in worker skills and key regional industries. The Collaborative is a catalyst for generating additional investments in creating sectoral workforce partnerships, training workers, and improving workforce practices.

As a regional funding entity, the Collaborative’s key funding partners, to date, include The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region, The Danville Regional Foundation, The Harvest Foundation, J.T.-Minnie Maude Charitable Trust, and the Virginia Tobacco Commission.

The National Fund is spearheaded by a group of leading foundations across the United States, along with a major corporation and a leading federal government agency, including Chase, Ford Foundation, Knight Foundation, Microsoft, One Boeing Fund, Open Society Foundations, The Annie E. Casey Foundation, The Corporation for National and Community Service, The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, The Hitachi Foundation, The Joyce Foundation, The Kresge Foundation, The Prudential Foundation, The Social Innovation Fund, and The Walmart Foundation. Additionally, national partnerships have been established with Jobs for the Future and the Council on Foundations.

NFWS has historically worked with collaboratives in large, metropolitan areas throughout the United States. Realizing that workforce challenges impact rural communities differently than urban settings, they sought to develop rural collaborative models to support. The Dan River Region Collaborative (DRRC) was initiated in the summer of 2008 and received its initial acceptance into the National Fund in the fall of 2008.

Grant Proposals Being Accepted – Deadline July 10, 2012

The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region is now accepting proposals for its next round of grant making. The Community Foundation has awarded nearly $15 million in grants since it began in 1996.

 Information has already been mailed to approximately 150 community non-profit organizations in Danville, Pittsylvania County, Caswell County and Halifax County. The Foundation is accepting Preliminary Request applications from 501(c)(3) charitable organizations until July 10, 2012. The Preliminary Request applications should include a brief overview of the proposed project. The Foundation’s Distribution Committee will then select which organizations to ask to submit full grant applications.

Approximately $570,000 is available for grants this year.  This total includes a generous gift from the Danville Regional Foundation to benefit the residents of Caswell County, Pittsylvania County and the city of Danville.  New this year, a $1,000 grant is available to Halifax County organizations, from the Fund for Halifax County.

The Community Foundation is a public charity established in September 1996 by a steering committee of civic leaders to meet a variety of social, educational, cultural and other charitable needs in the Danville, Pittsylvania County and Caswell County area, as well as Southern Virginia and Northern North Carolina.

Application forms are available here https://www.cfdrr.org/receive/grants/. For more information, contact The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region, 541 Loyal Street, Danville, VA  24541, 434-793-0884.

Autism Education Fund created from Autism Walk proceeds

Autism Education Fund photo

Puzzle pieces are the symbol of autism because they reflect the mystery and complexity of the autism spectrum. Participants were invited to decorate puzzle pieces to explain their reasons for participating in the event.

DANVILLE, VA – On Saturday, April 21, over 500 residents of Danville, Pittsylvania County and surrounding cities and counties gathered at the Riverwalk in Danville to participate in the first annual Dan River Autism Awareness 5k. 

Due to requests from participants, the donation deadline was extended through May 31, 2012. Participants raised approximately $22,000, far exceeding the event fundraising goal of $15,000. A portion of the funds was donated to Autism Speaks, a national autism advocacy and research organization. The majority of the funds was used to establish the Autism Education Fund through the Community Foundation of the Dan River Region

“The Dan River Autism Awareness 5k was a first-time, one-day event, but with the endowment of the Autism Education Fund, its impact on our community will be permanent,” said Lauren Mathena, a member of the event planning team. 

The purpose of the Autism Education Fund is broadly defined as “to support autism education-related programs or organizations benefitting individuals, families, educators and the community.” As an endowed fund, the Autism Education Fund will generate interest on principal, which can then be dispersed into the community as grants. Non-profit organizations are eligible to apply directly to the Community Foundation for these grants. Individuals or for-profit organizations may access the fund if a non-profit organization agrees to serve as a fiscal intermediary. 

Mathena said, “We will continue to build the fund by holding the 5k each year, and we hope that our community will access the fund immediately. To get started, we are hosting a reception on June 13th to share more information about the Autism Education Fund with team captains, volunteers, and representatives from related non-profits.” 

Fundraising was only the secondary goal for the Dan River Autism Awareness 5k. The primary goal of the event was to raise awareness about autism in the Dan River Region. After finishing the 5k or 1-mile course, participants joined the post-event autism celebration. Building Blocks Center for Autism and The Hughes Center for Exceptional Children provided educational information about autism. Yard signs containing facts about autism were located between the sign in area and the 5k course. Participants were encouraged to decorate a puzzle piece to share personal reasons for participating in the event. 

Courtney Adams is a member of the planning team and the program director of Building Blocks Center for Autism. Adams said, “We are thrilled with the fundraising amount, but we are most excited about the opportunity to build the sense of community among local individuals, families, educators and others impacted by autism.” 

Building Blocks Center for Autism was a key sponsor of the event. The Hughes Center for Exceptional Children, Danville Regional Medical Center, Center for Pediatric Therapies, and around 15 other local organizations joined them. 

Heather Showalter is a member of the planning team and the Autism program director The Hughes Center. Showalter said, “The Hughes Center is extremely proud to have been a part of such an amazing community event. Autism awareness is so very important as it helps to ensure vital research funding efforts and increased treatment availability for individuals living with Autism. Everyone at The Hughes Center is looking forward to being a part of next year’s event.” 

“Planning is already underway for the second annual Dan River Autism Awareness 5k, which will be held in April 2013. We hope to increase participation and fundraising, and make next year’s event an even more empowering experience for our local autism community,” said Mathena. 

For more information about the Dan River Autism Awareness 5k, visit http://www.danriverautism5k.org or email info@danriverautism5k.org. To make a contribution directly to the Autism Education Fund, contact the Community Foundation of the Dan River Region at (434) 793-0884 or visit https://www.cfdrr.org

About Autism
Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that inhibits a person’s ability to communicate and develop social relationships, and is often accompanied by behavioral challenges. Autism Spectrum Disorders are diagnosed in one in 88 children in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have called autism a national public health crisis whose cause and cure remain unknown. (Source: http://www.autismspeaks.org)

78 Students Awarded Scholarships

NEWS RELEASE

 The Community Foundation awards 78 scholarships totaling more than $129,000 to area students

 

 

May 7, 2012  (Danville, VA) – The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region has awarded  78 scholarships totaling more than $129,000 to area students. Presentations from 31 different scholarship funds within The Community Foundation were made at a scholarship reception held May 6, 2012 at The Community Center at Chatham. 

“We are so excited to help open the doors of the future to so many students,” said Debra L. Dodson, Executive Director for The Community Foundation. “We have awarded 591 scholarships totaling more than $1,500,000 since the Foundation began in 1996.”

The Bennett-Bushnell-Jones-Kaufman Scholarship was established from four individual scholarships to benefit outstanding nursing students at Danville Regional Medical Center School of Health Professions.  These scholarships were transferred to The Community Foundation in 2008 by the Piedmont Health Foundation.  Recipients will be announced May 18th.

The James W. Bryant, Sr. and James T. Collie Scholarship was established with The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region in 2005 by a retired school teacher. The scholarship is for Pittsylvania County Public Schools graduates, with a preference for those pursuing education or nursing.  Three scholarships of $1,200 each were awarded to high school seniors Tyler Capps (Dan River High School), Brittnie Cooke (Gretna High School) and Shacolby Fergurson (Chatham High School).

The Bernard C. Calvert Scholarship was established in 2004 by the Brosville Council #51 of the Junior Order of United American Mechanics. The scholarship is restricted to Tunstall High School graduates, preferably students who attended either Brosville or Stony Mill Schools.  Sarah Terrell (Virginia Tech) is receiving $1,450.

The John Watson Daniel Scholarship was established by the JWD Retirement Club in 1997.  A scholarship in the amount of $600 was presented to Hunter Adkins (Dan River High School).

The Danville Academic Boosters Club Scholarship is awarded to the top five scholastic students in Danville Public School system.  The following students are receiving scholarships – Hillary Hylton (Galileo Magnet High School), Elizabeth Carmen (Galileo Magnet High School), Ali Stephens-Pickeral (GWHS), Richard Snyder (GWHS) and Hannah Moore (GWHS).

The Danville Regional Medical Center Auxiliary/Volunteers Scholarship was established in 2007 for Danville Regional Medical Center employees, volunteers and their immediate families, who are studying a medical field.  Nine scholarships of $1,100 each were awarded to Sierra Hill (Tunstall High School), Elizabeth Hyler (Tunstall High School), Haley Key (Tunstall High School), Olivia McCraw (Tunstall High School), Morgan Oakes (James Madison University), Hunter Reese (Tunstall High School), Brianna Ryan (Westover Christian Academy), Taylor Slaughter (Tunstall High School) and Amber Sulter (Lynchburg College).

The Roy L. and Mary G. Doss Scholarship was established in 2010 to benefit graduating seniors of Danville or Pittsylvania County.  The following students received $5,500 each – Joshua Estabrook (Westover Christian Academy), Christopher Hyman (Tunstall High School) and Kristen Light (GWHS).  2011 scholarships were renewed for Calvin Bagby (St. John’s University), Victoria Cox (Virginia Tech), Claire Francisco (Liberty University), Latasha Jennings (University of Virginia), Nathan Unger (University of Georgia) and Christopher Waters (University of Virginia).  Each received $5,500.

One student received the John R. and Betty B. Eggleston Scholarship, established in memory of Dr. and Mrs. Eggleston in 2002. The scholarship was presented to Kaitlin Robertson (Bartlett Yancey High School) in the amount of $700.

The Margaret Spruce Floyd Scholarship was established in memory of Mrs. Floyd and transferred to The Community Foundation in 2003. The scholarship is awarded to female high school students from Pittsylvania County.  Brianna Hess (Chatham High School) received $1,600.

The Gantsoudes Scholarship was established with The Community Foundation in 2008.  The scholarship benefits George Washington High School students attending college in Virginia or North Carolina.  Tyesha Womack (GWHS) received $1,475.

The Roy G. and Joan F. Gignac Scholarship was created in 2000 to benefit area students who may attend the Illinois Institute of Technology or pursue technical disciplines.   Scholarships were awarded to  Phillip Dumont (GWHS), Cody Finch (Chatham High School), Shane Mayhew (Gretna High School) and Ryan Ross (GWHS).  Each received $2,750.

The John B. Grubb Scholarship was established in 2007 in memory of Mr. Grubb to benefit Danville and Pittsylvania County Public School graduates.  Ling Guo (GWHS) received  $625.

The GW Class of 1957 Scholarship was established in 2007 with The Community Foundation.  The Class of 1957 created the scholarship for their 50th High School Reunion to benefit George Washington High School students.  Tipree Graves (GWHS) received $1,025.

The Ray M. Harris Scholarship was created in memory of Mr. Harris and transferred to The Community Foundation in 2004. The scholarship gives primary consideration to Pittsylvania County high school graduates. Two Ray M. Harris scholarships were awarded this year. Tyler Cassidy (Bethel University) and Victoria Gentry (Westover Christian Academy) each received $2,250.

The Stuart Harris Drama Scholarship recognizes outstanding drama students in the Danville Public Schools. LaDawn Noble (GWHS) received $975.

The John L. Hurt, Jr. Scholarship supports students from Gretna High School, with a preference for students who have attended the John L. Hurt, Jr. Elementary School. Amanda Mayhew (Gretna High School) received $1,700.

The Main Street United Methodist Church Scholarship was established in 2007 with the closing of Main Street United Methodist Church and is for local seminary students, with a preference for United Methodist applicants. Edith Robinson-Davis was awarded $2,225 to continue her education at Duke Divinity School.

The Robert and Bernice Milam Scholarship was transferred to the foundation in 2010 from Third Avenue Congregational Christian Church to benefit its active members.  The following students each received $1,900 – Stuart Davis (Greensboro College), Carrie Hartgrove (Longwood University) and Dustin Marshall (Tunstall High School).

Three scholarships totaling $4,350 were awarded from the Onnie H. & Bertie W. Milloway Scholarship to assist area students who attend Averett University. Scholarships were presented to current Averett students  Dennis Bouse III, Margaret Burnette and Jasmine Reid.

The Patrick H. Musick Scholarship was established to provide funding for deserving Averett University students who have a tennis-playing background.  Kelsey Harris (Randolph Henry High School) was awarded $700.

The Arnold B. Porter & Elizabeth J. Porter Scholarship was established in 2006 for students who are members of Fairview United Methodist Church.  Two students, Audrey Savage (GWHS) and Amber Sulter (Lynchburg College), received $1,225 each.

Two area college students received scholarships for $1,400 each from the Irene L. Pritchett Scholarship, created years ago to benefit area black students. The Pritchett scholarship was transferred to The Community Foundation in 2001. Jazmine Willard (Longwood University) and Tyrabia Womble  (Dan River High School) were the recipients.

The Alger Pugh Memorial Scholarship was created in memory of Alger Pugh, GW High School football coach, after his death in 1984. The scholarship was then transferred to The Community Foundation and is given to deserving GW athletes. Two students were awarded scholarships of $1,400 each –  Matthew Riddle (GWHS) and Ali Stephens-Pickeral (GWHS).

Nine Gretna High School seniors were awarded $530 each from the Richard Ramsey Scholarship.  The Scholarship was created in memory of Mr. Ramsey, a Gretna High School teacher, many years ago and transferred to The Community Foundation in 2010.  This scholarship was created to benefit Gretna High School students.  The recipients are Brittnie Cooke, Jasmine Lovelace, Amanda Mayhew, Shane Mayhew, Daniel Nuckols, Sarah Oakes, Devontae Pannell, Afton Richardson and Matthew Wyatt.

Two scholarships in the amount of 1,050 were given from the Riddle-Francis Scholarship, which was created in 2005 by a former teacher to benefit Pittsylvania County students, with a preference for Tunstall and Dan River students. The scholarships were awarded to Taylor Jones (Tunstall High School) and Morgan Williams (Tunstall High School).

The Percy and Velna Scearce Scholarship was created in 2001 to benefit area students. Lindsey Roberts (Westover Christian Academy) received $1,300.

The Spiros Skenderis Memorial Scholarship was created by the Danville Bar Association in memory of Judge Spiros Skenderis. Judge Skenderis served as a compassionate judge of the Danville Juvenile and Domestic Relations District for 19 years.  A $1,600 scholarship was awarded to Carlos Magana (GWHS).

The Eileen and Joseph Stendig Scholarship was created in 2005 to benefit area students.  Audrey Savage (GWHS) was awarded $1,850.

The Louise P. Surles Scholarship supports area students who attend the University of Virginia.  Rachel Nicholson (Chatham High School) and Hollie Shorter (Tunstall High School) were awarded $1,150 each.

The Florence P. Wagner and Jennie Lee Wagner Scholarship was established in 2008 to provide scholarships to Pittsylvania County high school graduates.  Rachel Brown (Chatham High School) was awarded $825.

The Andy Warren Memorial Scholarship was created in memory of GW High School assistant football coach and is given to deserving GW athletes.  Rachel Kilgore (former GWHS athlete continuing her education at Virginia Commonwealth University) was awarded $1,150.  High school senior, Ashley Riddle (GWHS) also received $1,150.

The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region, formerly known as DPC Community Foundation, is a public charity with total assets of $23 million. The Foundation serves a region from Martinsville-Henry County to South Boston/Halifax County, including the neighboring North Carolina counties.

The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region is a fully tax-exempt organization. Individuals or businesses may establish their own endowment or scholarship fund or may contribute any amount to existing funds. For more information, contact Debra L. Dodson at 541 Loyal Street, Danville, VA, 24541, (434) 793-0884 or visit their web site www.cfdrr.org.

Deputy Frankie Lynn Betterton Scholarship opened

Danville, VA – Dorinda B. Yeatts, sister of Frankie Lynn Betterton, has opened a scholarship fund in his memory with The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region. Deputy Sheriff Frankie Lynn Betterton was shot and killed while making a traffic stop on May 17, 2002.

Deputy Betterton had two vehicles pulled over at this traffic stop. One vehicle was being driven by a male, and the other vehicle was driven by his girlfriend. After letting the girlfriend go, Deputy Betterton had the male sit in his patrol car.

The male, who was seated in the passenger seat, produced a .380 caliber handgun and shot Deputy Betterton once in the head. The male fled the scene but was apprehended the following morning. The male was charged and convicted with capital murder and the jury recommended the death penalty, but the judge instead sentenced the male to life in prison.

Deputy Betterton had been employed with the Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office for three years.

The Deputy Frankie Lynn Betterton Scholarship Fund will award scholarships to deserving Danville/Pittsylvania residents who have a financial need and who are pursuing a law enforcement career.

Dorinda Yeatts explained that she had been looking for a suitable way to honor her brother’s memory as the 10th anniversary of his death approaches. Yeatts gave the first donations to the scholarship. She hopes the deputy’s many friends and supporters will help build the scholarship so it can reach the $25,000 minimum required for a permanent, endowed scholarship.

How to Give

 Donors who wish to support the Deputy Frankie Lynn Betterton Scholarship can send donations to The Community Foundation, 541 Loyal Street, Danville, VA   24541. Online credit card gifts can be made at www.cfdrr.org. Please designate the Betterton Scholarship Fund for your gift.

In addition to monetary donations, the Community Foundation of the Dan River Region also accepts donations of property and other assets. These donations can often relieve tax burdens for those who donate, their estates or their heirs. Our professional advisors will work with you to find the best options available for maximizing your gift’s value.

Appreciated Property – Gifts of stocks, bonds, mutual funds and real estate can result in dual tax benefits; the full value of the assets are usually deductible, with no capital gains tax paid on the appreciation.

Wills – A will bequest made to the Community Foundation of the Dan River Region is deductible for federal estate tax purposes and may result in additional savings on state inheritance and estate taxes.

IRAs – The gift of an IRA to the Community Foundation of the Dan River Region can, upon your death, eliminate significant income-tax liabilities for the estate.

Life Insurance – A life insurance gift, through a new or existing policy, offers a cost-effective way to make a significant gift to the Community Foundation of the Dan River Region.

The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region is an independent, 501c3 public charity established in September 1996 by a steering committee of local civic leaders to gather permanent funds to support our area. The Foundation services a region from Martinsville/Henry County through Danville/Pittsylvania County to South Boston/Halifax County, including Caswell County and the neighboring North Carolina counties.

Funds created to help care for area animals

 

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION FUNDS CREATED

TO HELP CARE FOR AREA ANIMALS

 

Danville, VA — Area donors have created several funds with The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region to help a variety of animal welfare organizations in Danville and Pittsylvania County. Anyone can donate to the funds and help build their future impact.

V.E.T. Fund

The Veterinary Emergency Treatment Fund (V.E.T. Fund) was established by Dr. Jeff Smith in 2012 with the belief that the bond that forms between a person and their pet is immensely beneficial and is worthy of preserving regardless of financial situation.  From the young child with his first puppy to the elderly person with that unconditional four-legged companion, these relationships have deep and lasting value.  Dr. Smith had the simple idea that a community of animal lovers could support one another in times of need. 

The fund’s purpose is to raise money and work with vets in the Dan River Region to make financial assistance available to give companion animals a chance to remain family members.  The Fund gives loving pet owners the means to save their best friend when they are unable to make full payment in times of a pet’s sudden illness or emergency treatment. Veterinary care has become very sophisticated and expensive and it is common to spend $5000 on a visit to a veterinary specialist.  When an emergency situation arises, sometimes people are not prepared to pay such a bill and are forced to end a pet’s life in a situation that could be resolved.  The Veterinary Emergency Treatment Fund is here to help people get through a difficult situation and continue a long gratifying relationship with their companion.  

The Community Foundation will work through local animal agencies to manage the financial assistance program, with the first funds expected to be available in summer 2013.

A second donor (Thomas E. Scarce) has created several different funds with The Community Foundation, all to benefit animals and animal causes.

Pittsylvania County Animal Shelter Fund

The Pittsylvania County Animal Shelter Fund was created by Scarce, in 2008 to benefit the Pittsylvania County Animal Shelter – to include the construction of a new shelter. If funds are not needed for construction of the new Shelter to State requirements, the funds may also be used for the other purposes to promote animal care, shelter cleanliness, adoption of the maximum number of animals, and general operation of the shelter, where other funding is not available from government or private sources. The Community Foundation will work closely with Pittsylvania County on the best use of grants from this Fund.

Animal Welfare Fund

The Animal Welfare Fund was created by Scarce in 2011 in honor of Cook Francis Bradner, a trainer and lover of hunting dogs; Nannie Scearce Bradner, a lover of all animals,; and their son, Bennie G. Bradner, who gave his life in WWII in defense of our nation. The Animal Welfare Fund is a general Field of Interest fund, with The Community Foundation’s Board awarding annual grants made to charitable organizations for the purpose of supporting animal welfare in Danville and Pittsylvania County.

Irving H. and Louise Hambrick Scarce Animal Welfare Fund

The Irving H. and Louise Hambrick Scarce Animal Welfare Fund was created in 2011 in honor of the Scarce’s parents. The fund is a donor advised fund, with the donor recommending annually to the Foundation Board grants to support animal welfare agencies in Danville and Pittsylvania County, such as the Animal Welfare League of Pittsylvania County.

How to Give

 Animal lovers who wish to support one or more of these funds can send donations to The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region, 541 Loyal Street, Danville, VA   24541. Online credit card gifts can be made at www.cfdrr.org. Please designate which fund(s) you choose for your gift.

In addition to monetary donations, the Community Foundation of the Dan River Region also accepts donations of property and other assets. These donations can often relieve tax burdens for those who donate, their estates or their heirs. Our professional advisors will work with you to find the best options available for maximizing your gift’s value.

Appreciated Property – Gifts of stocks, bonds, mutual funds and real estate can result in dual tax benefits; the full value of the assets are usually deductible, with no capital gains tax paid on the appreciation.

Wills – A will bequest made to the Community Foundation of the Dan River Region is deductible for federal estate tax purposes and may result in additional savings on state inheritance and estate taxes.

IRAs – The gift of an IRA to the Community Foundation of the Dan River Region can, upon your death, eliminate significant income-tax liabilities for the estate.

Life Insurance – A life insurance gift, through a new or existing policy, offers a cost-effective way to make a significant gift to the Community Foundation of the Dan River Region.

The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region is an independent, 501c3 public charity established in September 1996 by a steering committee of local civic leaders to gather permanent funds to support our area. The Foundation services a region from Martinsville/Henry County through Danville/Pittsylvania County to South Boston/Halifax County, including Caswell County and the neighboring North Carolina counties.

CAPTION: Dr. Jeff Smith with his pet Bo

2012 Grant Reception

THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES $577,600 IN NEW GRANTS;

MORE THAN $12 MILLION GIVEN SINCE FORMATION

 

The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region announced on January 17, 2012 a total of $577,600 in new grants to 45 non-profit community agencies at a reception at the IALR. The Community Foundation was incorporated in 1996 and has already returned more than $13.8 million in community grants and scholarships.

This year’s grants contain $250,000 in funding made available by a grant from the Danville Regional Foundation. A complete listing of the grants awarded from the Danville Regional Foundation’s support is below.

The following grants were approved by The Community Foundation’s Distribution Committee and Board of Directors and awarded from various funds as described below:

Air Force Association, Chapter 240 – ($1,500) – to provide matching grant funding to city and county K-12 science teachers (Herbert Sater Fund)

ATT Search and Rescue Dogs of Virginia – ($1,600) – to purchase a laptop computer and printer to assist in search operations and communications (Clarence L. Giles Fund)

Averett University – ($23,500) – to provide matching funds to hire a Director of Autism Studies to oversee expansion of the autism educational initiative and early intervention programs (Clarence L. Giles Fund, John C. Swanson, Jr. Fund)

Bachelors Hall Volunteer Fire Department – ($25,000) to assist in purchasing two new defibrillators for emergency vehicles (James Russell and Zora Carter Anderson Fund)

Boys and Girls Clubs of the Danville Area – ($20,000) to update and renovate the games room at the clubs in Danville and Chatham (James Russell and Zora Carter Anderson Fund, Faye Carter Fund, Niles Daly Fund, Pat and Cathy Daly Family Fund, Philip and Frances Daly Fund, Herbert Sater Fund)

Brosville Community Volunteer Fire Department – ($15,000) to assist in purchasing a new ambulance in 2012 (James Russell and Zora Carter Anderson Fund, Faith Home Fund)

Cascade Volunteer Fire Department – ($15,000) to assist in purchasing a quick-attack brush/wild land firefighting truck (James Russell and Zora Carter Anderson Fund)

Caswell County Partnership for Children – ($10,000) to provide a “Raising a Reader” program for low-income children in Caswell County (Ahmed Children’s Fund, James Russell and Zora Carter Anderson Fund, Claudia Vernon Smith Fund)

City of Danville – Division of Social Services – Neighbors Helping Neighbors – ($15,000) to assist eligible and vulnerable low-income households in payments for immediate energy needs (James Russell and Zora Carter Anderson Fund, John C. Swanson, Jr. Fund)

 City of Danville – Danville Police Department – ($5,000) to help provide Cops and Kids Summer Program for students to foster positive relationships with policemen (Faye Carter Fund, John C. Swanson, Jr. Fund)

Danville Area Choral Arts Society – ($1,500) to present a holiday music concert for the community (Clarence L. Giles Fund)

Danville Community College – Nursing Program – ($20,000) to purchase a birthing simulator for the college’s nursing students (James Russell and Zora Carter Anderson Fund)

Danville Concert Association – ($3,500) to help bring the Los Angeles Piano Quartet to Danville for a full-length public concert (John C. Swanson, Jr. Fund)

Danville Family YMCA – ($5,000) to purchase furniture for the YMCA childcare program (Faye Carter Fund, Harry Melton Hood Fund, James A. and Anne V. Robertson Fund, John C. Swanson, Jr. Fund)

Danville Pittsylvania Community Services – ($10,000) to provide oral healthcare for low-income, high-need adults with behavioral health disorders who are enrolled with DPCS (Faith Home Fund)

God’s Pit Crew – ($5,000) to assist in purchasing a 2012 Utility 3000R Refrigerated trailer for the transportation of products to increase their capacity for distribution (Clarence L. Giles Fund)

God’s Storehouse – ($6,000) to assist in purchasing new computers to better serve clients when checking in (James Russell and Zora Carter Anderson Fund, Clarence L. Giles Fund, John C. Swanson, Jr. Fund)

Gretna Little Theatre – ($5,000) to help grow programs in variety and number (W. Earl and Elise M. G. Allen Fund, Faith Home Endowment Fund)

Gunn Memorial Public Library – ($2,000) to help Caswell County residents continue their education and embrace new technologies with a fun, new method of learning through reading (Gamewood Technology Fund)

Mount Cross Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department – ($5,000) to help pay down the balance owed on a 2006 Freightliner Fire Engine/Emergency Crash Truck (Faith Home Fund, James A. and Anne V. Robertson Fund)

Oak Grove Residential Care – ($6,000) to correct a major problem with the facility’s fire sprinkler system (W. Earl and Elise M. G. Allen Fund, Audrey Millner Fund)

Pittsylvania County – Special Operations Team – ($10,000) to provide personal protective equipment and rope rescue training for members of the team (Faith Home Endowment Fund)

Pittsylvania County Literacy Program – ($2,000) to assist adult students in achieving their literacy goals by purchasing new and updated materials (W. Earl and Elise M. G. Allen Fund)

Pittsylvania County Schools – Tunstall High School – ($500) to assist with costs related to participating in the FIRST Robotics FTC Competition (Gamewood Technology Fund)

The Arc of the Southside – ($114,000) to prepare and move people with disabilities into the community workforce (Faith Home Endowment Fund)

 

The following grants were awarded as a result of The Community Foundation’s grantmaking partnership with the Danville Regional Foundation.

Blairs Fire and Rescue – ($25,000) to update the station to become an emergency shelter (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Caswell County Parish – ($24,000) to implement and operate a mobile food pantry in Caswell County (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Danville Cancer Association – ($20,000) to assist with costs of cancer-related prescriptions for our local cancer patients in need of assistance (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Danville Life Saving and First Aid Crew – ($23,000) to purchase an off-road, all-terrain emergency response vehicle to provide better access to the Riverwalk Trail (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Danville/Pittsylvania Regional Fire Training Center – ($5,000) to help purchase a forcible entry prop for training in forcing doors for the purpose of rescue or fire extinguishment (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Danville-Pittsylvania Habitat for Humanity – ($10,000) to purchase building materials to construct a 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom house for a family at 652 Lee Street (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Danville Science Center – ($18,000) to fund a portion of the fees for the traveling exhibits, Wild Music and Robots+Us (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Danville Speech and Hearing Center – ($12,500) to provide speech/language pathology services and supplies to uninsured, low income and under insured citizens of the Dan River Region who present a communication disorder (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Danville Symphony Orchestra – ($5,000) to assist in presenting a series of four free, live orchestral music concerts for the general public of Danville and Southside Virginia (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Danville Youth Grow – The First Tee of Danville – ($10,000) to promote the core values of The First Tee through an outreach effort to the community (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Institute for Advanced Learning and Research – ($13,000) to help develop a “STEM” University providing hands-on education to 300 K-12 students during out-of-school hours (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Keeling Volunteer Fire Department – ($9,000) to assist in purchasing replacement command lights for the front of the front line pumper and tanker (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Northern Pittsylvania Food Center – ($20,000) to provide food to those in need in the northern portion of Pittsylvania County (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Piedmont Access to Health Services (PATHS) – ($10,000) to enable ongoing access to basic mental health services for the low-income, uninsured in Danville/Pittsylvania County through the “New Lease on Life” Program (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Prospect Hill Volunteer Fire Department – ($15,000) to construct a garage addition to their current building for housing a mobile air unit (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Providence Fire and Rescue – ($10,000) to purchase a thermal imaging camera (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Riceville Java Volunteer Fire Department – ($4,000) to purchase equipment for pumper truck to assist in extinguishing large fires (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Semora Volunteer Fire Department – (3,000) to purchase replacement equipment for first responder/brush truck (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

The Salvation Army of Danville, VA – ($6,000) to address some much needed renovations to the facility (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Yanceyville Fire and Rescue – ($8,000) to purchase and install a mobile information system in a first-out fire truck (Danville Regional Foundation Fund)

Previously awarded grants:
The following grants were also recognized but have been previously awarded from donor advised and designated funds:

P. L. Anderson, Jr. Family Fund
Boys and Girls Club of Danville
First Baptist Church
Free Clinic of Danville
The Salvation Army

Gary A. and Sherry M. Carroll “Good for Youth” Fund
Westover Christian Academy

Christian Charities Fund
God’s Pit Crew
Little Life Pregnancy Center

James L. Clark and Henrietta Clark Fund
Danville Life Saving Crew and Rescue Squad
Moffett Memorial Baptist Church

Dan River Inc. Endowment Fund
Averett University
Danville Community College Educational Foundation
Danville Concert Association
Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History
Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber Foundation
Danville Symphony Orchestra
Free Clinic of Danville
God’s Storehouse
House of Hope
United Way of Danville-Pittsylvania County

Davis Family Fund
Averett University
Bassett Memorial United Methodist Church
Danville Cancer Association
Longwood University
Martinsville Cemetery Fund
Mt. Vernon United Methodist Church

Gantsoudes Family Fund
Danville Cancer Association
St. Peter’s Greek Orthodox Church

Garden Club of Danville Fund and Alma Courtney “Sigie” Perkinson Rose Fund
Garden Club of Danville

Bobby Hawker Memorial Fund
Pittsylvania County Community Action

Holland Fund and Wynne’s Falls Fund
Cross Roads Reconciliation Services

Larry Donald Huskey Memorial Fund
Crisis Line of Virginia
Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Plantation
Piedmont Access to Health Services

Kang-A-Rhue Children’s Cancer Fund
Ronald McDonald House of Roanoke

Keokee Fund
Piedmont Governor’s School for Mathematics, Science and Technology

Alexander Heath Light & Mary Nelson Light Mission Fund
Oak Grove Residential Care

Herman and Helen Melton Historical Fund
Pittsylvania County Historical Society

Miller Woodbury Fund
Cape Fear Academy

Moses & Louise A. Merricks Fund
God’s Storehouse
Mount Cross Volunteer Fire and Rescue
Wayles Harrison Cancer Fund

Morotock Arts and Culture Fund
Averett University
Danville Area Choral Arts Society
Danville Community College
Danville Concert Association
Danville Museum of Fine Arts and History

Benjamin M. Sugg Fund
Clover Cemetery

The Community Foundation’s next grant cycle will begin in June for projects to be funded in 2013.

The Community Foundation of the Dan River Region is a public charity established in September 1996 by a steering committee of civic leaders to improve and enrich area lives through the generosity of donors.

The Community Foundation office can be reached at 541 Loyal Street, Danville, VA, 24541, (434) 793-0884 or their web site at www.cfdrr.org.