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Tribute to Sharon Stredde by The Voice


October 8, 2015 article in The Voice by Carter Crane:

Becoming involved in projects to help others is widespread throughout the country and here at home. Often we take some of the relative and essential organizations for granted. Many of the individuals do their work to offer help without much publicity and little recognition. It is truly widespread and in spite of the headlines across the country of violence and lack of caring, the majority of the souls in the United States offer hope and encouragement.

See the Fundraiser forum on page 11 this week for organizations which spread help, hope, and hospitality to those who need encouragement, places to stay, and positive messages.

We support those efforts, however, we do not have a way of spreading the word for every organization. There is a time and place for recognition and one place which must not be missed is Sharon Stredde, president and chief executive officer of the Community Foundation for 30 years. She will retire December 31, 2015. The Community Foundation grew by $70 Million during her time as president and CEO and received gifts of $77 Million. She led the organization which awarded nearly $51 Million in grants and scholarships in that time.

Earlier this year the Foundation expanded through an office in Geneva which has been helping to spread the word in the Tri-Cities area.

She will stay on as president emeritus and continue to research, write scripts, and oversee production of new videos for the Foundation, according to a release sent out by Jeff Hartman, executive vice president of the organization.

The need is great for good service in all communities and often the perception is that individuals are dependent on the government for assistance. Primarily, however, organizations such at the Community Foundation offer hope and help, not as a relief organization, but, for grants and scholarships. The backbone of our society can receive a helping hand to stimulate the mind and character. Congratulations to Sharon Stredde for her invaluable service over many years as a key component of the communities in the Fox River Valley.

We chose the Community Foundation because of its reputation. It’s well known, established and we can trust them to do the job for us.

Dick Schindel

Richard and Susan Schindel Scholarship Funds

A community foundation is a donor-driven organization that helps donors custom-design funds that reflect their charitable interests. Through the years, grants from these funds have made a significant impact on our local communities.

Sharon Stredde

President Emeritus

Thank you very much for supporting my college education for these four years. I will never be able to repay you for the opportunity that this scholarship has given to me.

Julia H.

[Renewing Scholarship Recipient] Graduate of Hinkley-Big Rock High School

…you can always start small, even $25 can make a difference. Remember we can’t take our money with us. Even if it’s just your gift of time. Volunteer and get involved.

Cris Anderson

Cristina & Thomas S. Anderson Endowment Fund | Tom & Cris Anderson Colonial Advisory Fund

There’s no question in my mind that the scholarship I received opened up possibilities.

Marianne Renner

Past Scholarship Recipient & Current Leadership Coach

As a first-generation college student from a low-income family, I was worried about how I was going to pay for books and supplies. This scholarship will allow me to focus more on my studies instead of worrying about how to afford college. I am working to not only create opportunities for myself but to motivate future generations. Thank you so much for helping me along this journey!

Moises J.

Claude & Alice Allen Memorial Scholarship Recipient

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

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