Several residents of the immediate Crofton community and beyond were present for the “Meet and Greet” hosted by the Crofton Community Foundation on Thursday, March 24 at the Crofton Hay Market.
Following a social time and dinner, Foundation board member Larry Cooper emceed an information session outlining the work of the Foundation. Treasurer Michael Guenther gave a report of the various funds managed by the board which include the Unrestricted Fund, an endowment from which a portion of the interest is used for local projects which enhance the quality of life in Crofton.
Other funds managed by the foundation are the Parks Improvement Fund, Merle Guenther Fund, the Lyle and Shirley Sawatzke Scholarship Fund, the Mischke Pioneer Family Scholarship Fund and the Pool Account. The Crofton Community Foundation presently has assets of $1,257,557.50.
A video featuring Nebraska Community Foundation CEO Jeff Yost addressed the issue of “transfer of wealth” to rural communities which helps to attract young families by improving education, healthcare, and recreation, among other aspects of thriving communities.
Board members Mick Reifenrath and Irma Arens gave examples of how local community foundations have helped to fund projects in Nebraska towns similar in size to Crofton, such as Shickley, Beaver Crossing, Friend and Albion. The Crofton community has benefitted from funds provided for playground equipment and park improvements. During the program, the foundation presented a check to the Pool Committee in the amount of $23,500 to use toward the refurbishment of the Crofton City Pool.
Erin Filips spoke about the Foundation’s intern program and the opening they would like to fill with a college student who would work 25-30 hours per week from May through August compiling the wants and needs of the Crofton community. Interested persons can apply on the Foundation’s website or by contacting Erin Filips at 605-660-9888.
Larry Cooper and other board members outlined several ways individuals and families can make donations to the Crofton Community Foundation which are 100 percent tax deductible. The Builders Club is the easiest way to make a donation by an automatic withdrawal from a checking account. Donations can also be made by means of bequests from an estate, memorials, and donations of grain or livestock.
For more information on the Crofton Community Foundation and how donations of any amount can be made, contact Irma Arens at 605-661-2165 or by email at grandmaarens402@hotmail.com.
Board member Larry Cooper discussed the work of the Crofton Community Foundation and ways donations can be made which help to fund community improvements.