2026 Designated Funds Grant $665,000
JULY 2026 | Generosity takes many forms. For some donors, it means creating a lasting source of support for a nonprofit, church, school, or charitable cause that has shaped their lives. Through Marion Community Foundation’s designated funds, that generosity continues year after year.
In 2026, 88 designated endowment funds awarded more than $665,000 to 56 nonprofit organizations, supporting a wide range of community needs including education, the arts, economic development, faith-based organizations, health and wellness, and basic needs.
88 Designated Funds
Marion community foundation
56 Nonprofits Supported
$665,000 in Awards
“One of Marion Community Foundation’s greatest strengths is connecting generous people with the causes they care about most,” said Julie Prettyman, President & CEO. “When donors establish a designated fund, they create an enduring source of support for organizations that have made a difference in their lives and in our community.”
Designated funds are one of several charitable fund options available through the Marion Community Foundation. They allow donors to identify specific organizations they wish to support, with annual grants awarded from the fund in perpetuity.
“Many donors are inspired by personal experiences,” said Theresa Lubke, Donor Relations Manager. “Some want to honor family traditions, support an organization where they volunteered, or ensure a cause they care about remains strong for future generations. A designated fund allows them to make that impact forever.”
An example is the Eugene E. & Nancy L. Adler Memorial Fund , created in 2024 by Marion residents Valerie and Dan Wigton to honor Valerie’s parents and support the church she grew up in.
“My parents’ ancestors were involved in building St. Louis Catholic Church in 1864,” Valerie said. “Both sides of my family have a long history there—through baptisms, weddings, funerals, and generations of memories. Knowing this church family will continue to benefit from our fund for years to come gives Dan and me great peace of mind.”
According to Prettyman, designated funds have become one of the Foundation’s largest grantmaking programs.
“Designated funds reflect a donor’s heart for the community,” she said. “Each fund represents a commitment to organizations that matter deeply to its donor. Through endowment giving, those organizations receive lasting support, creating a legacy of generosity that extends well beyond a donor’s lifetime.” For more information about establishing a designated fund, contact Marion Community Foundation at 740-387-9704
The 2026 Designated Awards include support for the following:
Animal Care
Marion Area Humane Society
Arts, Culture & History
Edward Huber Memorial Association, Marion County Historical Association & Stengel-True Museum, Marion Women’s Club & Home, Marion County Historical Society, Marion Palace Theatre/Palace Cultural Arts Association, Marion Union Station Association, Ohio History Connection: Warren G. Harding Home & Presidential Center
Health & Wellness
Center Street Community Health Center, Marion Family YMCA, Marion General Hospital Hospice, Third Street Family Health Center
Community Development
Downtown Marion, Inc., League of Women Voters of Marion
Education
Calvert High School, Delphos St. John’s Schools, Elgin Local School District, Knowledge Academy Educational Services, Lima Central Catholic High School, Marion City Schools, Marion Public Library, Marion Technical College, The Ohio State University at Marion, Pleasant Local Schools, Pleasant Music Boosters, Ridgedale Local Schools, River Valley Local School District, St. Mary Elementary School, St. Ursula Academy, Thiel College, Tri-Rivers Career Center
Faith-Based
Centenary United Methodist Church, Central Christian Church, Emanuel Lutheran Church, Epworth United Methodist Church, First Church of the Brethren, First Presbyterian Church, St. Louis Catholic Church, St. Mary Parish of Tiffin, Ohio, Trinity Baptist Church
Youth, Families & Seniors
Boys & Girls Club of Marion County, Heart of Ohio Junior Golf Association, Marion County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Marion Family Court Resource Center, Marion Senior Citizens Association
Food, Shelter & Support
American Red Cross East Central Ohio, Buckeye Ridge Habitat for Humanity, Heart of Ohio Homeless Shelter, Leapin’ Outreach Center, Legal Aid of Southeast & Central Ohio, Marion Matters, Salvation Army of Marion, United Way of North Central Ohio, Wounded Warrior Project
Parks & Environment
Prairie Parks Foundation
Marion Community Foundation, established in 1998, is located at 504 S. State St. in Marion. Office hours are weekdays, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Staff may be reached by calling 740-387-9704.
