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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.

Message to donors: Go big—and don't go home!
Message to donors: Go big—and don't go home!
"It seems like the more I give the more I get, and that is the way it is supposed to go in life." —Dolly Parton Isn't it wonderful when donors live by that motto? Even if you're quite certain your donors enjoy giving to your organization, you'll still...
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Nonprofit spotlight: First Glance
Nonprofit spotlight: First Glance
First Glance has been a Kenmore staple for more than 25 years, offering a place for local teens to feel a sense of belonging, many of them seeking a stable environment in an otherwise unstable situation, whether it's gang activity, teen motherhood or...
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Nonprofit Spotlight: Canine Companions
Nonprofit Spotlight: Canine Companions
Canine Companions is the oldest and largest service dog organization in the country, matching expertly trained service dogs with clients, free of charge. The nonprofit also matches facility dogs with professionals working in healthcare, criminal justice, and...
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Dorothy O. Jackson
Dorothy O. Jackson
Memorial Philanthropist Award, The Soul of Philanthropy Akron Dorothy O. Jackson was a pioneering civic leader, public servant and philanthropist whose decades of service transformed Akron's social and political landscape. Known for her trailblazing spirit...
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Donte Cargill
Donte Cargill
Emerging Philanthropist Award, The Soul of Philanthropy Akron Donte Cargill is a compassionate and visionary nonprofit leader whose work is rooted in both love of community and the enduring legacy of his mother, Patricia. Donte established Patricia Ann...
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Pamela Valentine
Pamela Valentine
Hidden Philanthropist Award, The Soul of Philanthropy Akron Though not a Summit County native, Pamela Valentine has been deeply involved in the Greater Akron community for decades. Pamela graduated from the University of Akron and stayed in the community to...
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Towanda Mullins
Towanda Mullins
Philanthropist of the Year Award, The Soul of Philanthropy Akron Towanda Mullins is a dynamic community leader, cultural advocate, and coalition builder whose work has left an indelible mark on Greater Akron and beyond. As chairperson of the Sojourner Truth...
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Bernett L. Williams
Bernett L. Williams
Impact Philanthropist Award, The Soul of Philanthropy Akron Bernett L. Williams, MPA, CDP, is a visionary community leader whose life's work reflects an unwavering commitment to equity, empowerment, and healing. Through advocacy, partnership, and a gift for...
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