Phil Fuller, Davie Community Foundation Board chairman, greets guests at the 2011 annual meeting.
Davie Community Foundation hosted its 2011 Annual Meeting in November at the Davie County Public Library. More than 75 guests attended to learn about Foundation activities and report on grant awards. Phil Fuller, Foundation Chairman, welcomed guests and noted that it was the largest gathering for an annual meeting to date. “It is great to have everyone here. We are excited about your involvement and interest in the Foundation,” said Fuller.
Phil introduced Jane Simpson, Foundation President, who gave a report on 2011 community giving. According to Simpson, the Foundation has grown from 7 funds in 2003 to 172 funds in 2011! Eleven new funds have been opened thus far in 2011 and gifts are up 26% over the same point in time last year, totaling more than $520,000. “Gifts of all sizes have been important to the collection of funds at the Foundation,” said Simpson. “We are seeing more and more projects that involve collective giving where a group of individuals or businesses give to have a larger impact collectively. Touchdowns for Education is a great example where 30 businesses and organizations gave $18,000 collectively for scholarships.”
Jesus and Anthony Olmedo, students from William R. Davie Elementary School, with Principal Rex Allen and teachers Jen Meagher and Diane Ireland.
The focus for competitive grants remained on “Youth and Literacy issues” in 2011 with significant dollars awarded to summer reading camps. Children and parents from four elementary schools reported on the successes of their various camps. Anthony and Jesus Olmedo reported that they “enjoyed William R. Davie’s summer reading camp so much they could not wait for this summer. It will be all about Science. It is going to be EXPLOSIVE!”
Marlene Carter, Chairwoman of Pearls of Empowerment, reported on first year grants made by the ladies in 2010 and reminded guests that 2011 awards totaling $26,700 would be announced later in the week. Pearls of Empowerment is now made up of more than 100 women!
Adilene Ruano, participant in BBBS Girls Empowerment project, and her “Big Sister” Judy Sherrill.
Marlene introduced Adilene Ruano who participated in the Girls’ Empowerment Project hosted this summer by Big Brothers Big Sisters, a Pearls grant recipient. Adilene discussed the topics covered by the program and the real life information it gave to participants. “I thought I knew everything, but this program showed me there was so much more to learn,” said Adilene. After participating in the program, she is exploring college options and ways to pay for it.
Ellie Carter, SURF Board President, gave an update on the activities of the SURF Board during 2011. She outlined the grants made last February and encouraged applications for 2012 funds. Ellie also announced the 2012 fund raiser for the board; the SURF Board POPSICLE 5K Run will be held on February 4, 2012. “We are calling it the Popsicle 5K Run because we will all be frozen when we run in February!” said Carter. She encouraged guests to consider sponsorships and participation!
Board member Gladys Scott talks with Marlene and Ellie Carter.
Phil Fuller wrapped up the evening by thanking volunteers and recognizing and thanking retiring board members Elizabeth Sparks, Ken Lard, and Will Marklin. “You all have provided valuable leadership to the Foundation and you will be missed!” said Fuller. Guests were encouraged to stay to enjoy refreshments, ask the young people questions, and enjoy greeting each other.
