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Making Philanthropy Fun

Summer is a great time to get outside, be active, and have fun for a good cause. We’re surrounded by many dedicated volunteers and donors who find ways to support their passions and answer the needs of their communities—some to honor the memory of a loved one, while others want to give back to communities that have given so much to them. What they have in common is the knowledge that philanthropy is fun and the power of partnership makes an incredible impact on our neighbors and friends. Here are a few examples that the Community Foundation of Middlesex County (CFMC) hopes inspire more philanthropy in action.

Saying the weather wasn’t ideal on June 23 is an understatement, but the downpours didn’t deter the 160 runners and walkers who stuck with their commitment to Run for Chris in Essex. The event supports the Chris Belfoure Memorial Fund at CFMC. Belfoure, a graduate of Valley Regional High School and West Virginia University, spoke fluent Mandarin, believed that language provided an international connection among everyday people, and enjoyed every opportunity to be outside. Through the fund, his family found a way to share his passion with the community—and when those runners and walkers committed to the event, they were, in turn, fueled Chris’ legacy to support programs at Middlesex County schools that integrate multicultural experiences, foreign languages, and activities to help youth embrace the natural world.

Who knew swinging a club could lead to training and equipment for young wrestlers? That’s exactly what the Colter Classic Golf Tournament on July 17 in Portland did! All those foursomes and sponsors are the reason 40 middle school boys and girls hit the mats at a wrestling camp in Middletown this year—for free! Colter Abely loved golf and loved wrestling, and his family and friends continue his legacy every time they hit the links to support the Colter Abely Achievement Fund, which supports Camp Colter as well as the wrestling programs at Middletown and Xavier high schools.

Making philanthropy fun also provides the whole family an opportunity to help our neighbors. The dedicated volunteers of the At Risk Boys Fund have created a day-long celebration at the annual Cruise, Blues, and Brews Festival. The event showcases antique cars; great, local blues musicians; yummy food and beverages; and activities for kids. Yet it does so much more. Everyone who attends helps to support programs and services that give boys and young men a path to positive educational, work, and life experiences. The festival is on Saturday, Sept. 30 at the Chester Fairgrounds.

We at CFMC say “Thank you” to everyone who has a passion, who volunteers, who runs, walks, and tees up to make a difference in their communities. We encourage you to put your personal philanthropy plan into action and support a cause in your local community. It’s fun—and it does make a difference. Give CFMC a call at 860-347-0025, or drop an email at info@MiddlesexCountyCF.org.