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A Common Theme

Akron Community Foundation is a library of personal stories. Their authors? Charitable people just like you who want to enrich the community in their own unique way, now and forever.

Some are fundholder stories, which feature charitable individuals, families and organizations that find purpose, ease and fulfillment by giving through Akron Community Foundation. Others are grantee stories about nonprofits that are leveraging generous gifts from our donors and fundholders to improve life all over Summit County. Still others are advisor stories about legal and financial professionals who have expanded their services and strengthened client relationships by offering philanthropic services through Akron Community Foundation.

Ready to write your own story? Learn how you can start a charitable fund and leave your mark on the community for generations to come. You can also read our publications for more inspiring stories about philanthropy in Greater Akron.

Dale and Peggy Koblenzer Family Fund
Dale and Peggy Koblenzer Family Fund
Dale and Peggy Koblenzer's relationship with Akron Community Foundation began more than 20 years ago when the couple attended the foundation's 2001 Bert A. Polsky Humanitarian Award dinner honoring Clifford and Judith Isroff. A few years later, Dale, who was...
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The Soul of Philanthropy Akron
The Soul of Philanthropy Akron
On a crisp November evening in Akron, the spirit of generosity took center stage. The Soul of Philanthropy Akron Awards unfolded as a powerful celebration of Black philanthropy, honoring eight local changemakers whose lives and leadership have transformed...
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Serving With Purpose
Serving With Purpose
For two individuals who are well known for their abundant generosity, David and Cheryl Venarge's journey is not one of overnight success or inherited wealth. It's a story built on grit, grace, and a shared belief that when someone needs help, you give it....
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Nonprofit Spotlight: Akron Blind Center
Nonprofit Spotlight: Akron Blind Center
When LaJohn Ellies Jr. sustained an injury due to gun violence, he found himself in a deep depression. "Five years ago, I was accidentally shot in the head. The bullet went through my right ear and traveled out my left eye, and I totally lost my left eye and...
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Powerful charitable exits: Donating business interests
Powerful charitable exits: Donating business interests
If your client base includes business owners, you probably weren't surprised by this observation in a recent Wall Street Journal article about the "stealthy wealthy": "Behind a paycheck, the largest source of income for the 1% highest earners in the U.S....
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