(West Chester, PA – September 9, 2024): The Board of Directors of the Chester County Community Foundation invites the community to attend their 30th Annual Meeting. The event takes place on Monday, October 28 at Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center in West Chester.
Each year the Community Foundation recognizes a door opener who stewards legacy philanthropy. This year, the Community Foundation spotlights Denise M. Antonelli Esq. of Gawthrop Greenwood with the Door Opener Award. When it comes to charitable gift planning, estate planning attorneys tend to be crucial gatekeepers in this multi-faceted process. Antonelli had a trusted relationship with a long-term client who supports a wide variety of charitable causes. Antonelli and her client met with representatives from the Community Foundation, explained their desires and parameters, and created a legacy fund with an initial gift, with a testamentary gift to follow. Antonelli explained, “My client wishes to remain anonymous. That wish is honored by the Community Foundation, too, by holding private information in confidence.”
The Community Foundation is proud to honor two milestones at this year’s Annual Meeting alongside two fund advisors, Laura and Cynthia Ericson. In 1984, Stephen Chandler Ericson tragically lost his life. In the face of an unimaginable loss, Stephen’s mother, Laura, persevered and created the Stephen Chandler Ericson Foundation. 2024 marks 40 years since Stephen’s passing and 10 years since the Ericson family brought the scholarship to the Community Foundation. From inception, the Ericson scholarship has grown from $1,000 to the $14,000 scholarship award it is today. The Community Foundation is honored to feature the Ericson’s at this year’s Annual Meeting to continue Stephen’s legacy, proving that “One life can make a difference”.
The Community Foundation will also feature Michael and Nancy Pia, fund advisors of the Michael & Nancy Pia Foundation. Established in 2002, the Pia Fund enhances the lives of children through their charitable efforts. Their support focuses on programs and organizations dedicated to child welfare including LCH Community & Health Services, Chester County Food Bank, Kennett Library, Kennett Area Community Service and many more. The Pia’s motto is simple; “Lead with your heart”.
The third annual Honorable Dr. Clifford E. DeBaptiste Visionary Award will recognize Dr. Mildred Joyner and Dr. James Trotman for their outstanding contributions to civic engagement, community service, and philanthropy. Dr. Joyner was a leading advocate in social work and DEI initiatives at West Chester University. Dr. Trotman founded West Chester University’s Frederick Douglass Institute, enriching multicultural studies and honoring Douglass’s legacy. Both Dr. Joyner and Dr. Trotman have dedicated their lives and careers to advancing issues including Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. The changes these community leaders forged will be remembered and embraced by many.
Community Foundation Board Chair Zebulun Davenport Ed.D. comments, “Coming together in the spirit of philanthropy strengthens our community and shows our commitment to progress. For Good. Forever.”
The 30th Annual Meeting is free and open to the public. The program begins at 5pm with 1-hour receptions immediately before and after at 4pm and 6pm. RSVP to (610) 696-8211 or events@chescocf.org to reserve a seat. For more information, visit https://chescocf.org/events/30th-annual-meeting/.
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About the Chester County Community Foundation
Headquartered in West Chester’s Lincoln Building, the Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter so their legacy philanthropy makes a difference now and forever. The Community Foundation is entrusted with nearly $100 million in community assets, and annually awards $6 million in grants and scholarships. www.chescocf.org