Stories

Night at the Museum program spotlights budding artists

As an internationally acclaimed museum, the Akron Art Museum is famous for its massive collection of art created by virtuosos like Norman Rockwell and Cindy Sherman. But six times a year, the museum showcases special pieces of art created by a different kind...

'Elves' spread holiday joy with special deliveries to Akron youth

It was a quiet Sunday morning in December when a parade of fire trucks, police cars and semi-trailers suddenly appeared in a small Akron neighborhood blasting their horns. Children and parents alike came running out of their houses, shouting with excitement...

Grant helps African-American girls reduce anxiety

By Stephanie L. LangguthAssistant Director of Advancement CommunicationsKent State University Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting 40 million U.S. adults age 18 and older – 18 percent of the U.S. population....

Local secretary leaves lasting mark

Betty Axline, an Ellet native, spent nearly 40 years working as a secretary for some of the nation's most notable companies: Goodyear Aircraft, General Tire and Chemstrand/Monsanto. She was a woman of modest means, yet every year she donated her last...

Corporate giving sparked by owner's love for local children

After years of welcoming foster children into their home, Akron residents Kurt and Kathy Davis were overjoyed when the opportunity finally came to adopt two babies of their own. Summit County Children Services had called, asking if they could take two more...

Business owners demonstrate love for Bath

Two years ago, when Kevin Kroskey bought a home and an office building in Bath Township, it wasn't just a business decision. It was a matter of the heart. "Bath had always spoken to us," said Kevin of himself and his wife, Brandy. "There is a resounding sense...

Donor-advised fund simplifies client's giving after business sale

Good business owners are known for their ability to capitalize on opportunity. This is especially true when deciding to sell their business. More and more business owners are using what is likely their largest influx of income as the charitable opportunity of...

Mother's legacy spurs siblings' charity

"When I was a child, philanthropy looked like a dress-up party," said Ann Durr, daughter of the late businesswoman and philanthropist Kathryn Hunter. "I remember going with my mom to Birnbaum's. They had this room with a giant chandelier and a pedestal, and...

Family fund empowers three generations of giving

David and Cheryl Venarge are Akron success stories, but their success didn't come easy. Now, through the David R. and Cheryl L. Venarge Fund, they're keeping a family tradition of giving alive with both their children and grandchildren. Each was raised by...

Allan Family Fund

For art enthusiast Ron Allan, Akron is a fantastic place to live. It was this community where he cultivated his love for the arts and began immersing himself in organizations that promote both art and music. "Akron is so culturally rich," he said. "It is a...

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