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.
