BUCYRUS — The Community Foundation for Crawford County will join community foundations across the country from Nov. 12 to 18, 2026, to celebrate Community Foundation Week.
Established in 1989 by President George H.W. Bush, the week recognizes how community foundations bring neighbors, donors, and local institutions together to strengthen the places they call home.
Throughout our nation’s 250-year history, generosity has been part of what it means to be American. In good times and hard ones, neighbors have shown up for one another, and community foundations carry that tradition forward. The Council on Foundations lists more than 980 nationwide, each serving a defined area.
They pool gifts from many donors into funds and endowments that support residents and lead on community issues. During this week, The Community Foundation for Crawford County celebrates the generosity behind that work in Crawford County.
As part of that celebration, the Foundation also recently presented its annual Spirit of Philanthropy Award to Doug Leuthold.
During a recent Evening of Philanthropy event, Leuthold was recognized for all of the volunteer and financial commitments he’s made to Crawford County over the years to make our community a better place to live.
Other activities planned during this special week include presenting holiday pies to the Foundation’s top donors, Community Sustainers, and Community Legacy members. The week will also include National Philanthropy Day on Nov. 15.
According to the Foundation’s President, Adam Paynter, this is also a great time to acknowledge the sacrifices and dedication of all our local volunteers.
“There are so many selfless individuals in Crawford County, including the Foundation’s own Board and committee members, that give of their time, talents and gifts to the
Foundation and many other local organizations that serve our community.”
The Foundation’s vision statement is “Bridging philanthropy with causes that improve Crawford County’s quality of life,” and their core values include accountability, collaboration, inclusion, innovation, and integrity.
