2014 Community Foundation Week

Floor Speech

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, community foundations epitomize the philanthropic culture of the United States. Established in 1989, Community Foundation Week takes place from November 12-18th annually and honors the tremendous contributions of community foundations across our country. They hold a unique place in American society and provide hope and opportunity to millions of Americans. One hundred years ago, the world's first community foundation was established in Cleveland, Ohio. Since then more than 700 community foundations have been created in America inspiring millions of Americans to give back to this great country with their time, talent and treasure. Today, I would like to recognize the work of Indiana's community foundations that operate under the definitions supported by the National Standards for Community Foundations. Indiana is blessed to have a community foundation in every county, including 10 in my district: Unity Foundation of LaPorte County; Starke County Community Foundation; Community Foundation of St. Joseph County; Elkhart County Community Foundation; Kosciusko County Community Foundation; Marshall County Community Foundation; Pulaski County Community Foundation; Fulton County
Community Foundation; Miami County Community Foundation; and Community Foundation of Wabash County.

These foundations are a model for how philanthropy can inspire communities to come together in support of a common cause. In Marshall County, the Community Foundation, United Way, and economic development leaders are working together to address challenges and opportunities for economic growth such as the need for a more highly skilled workforce. Community conversations spearheaded by these organizations brought together local units of government, educators, private sector partners and nonprofit organizations and laid the groundwork for becoming a model region for Project Lead The Way. It was through this type of partnership that a $4.4 million matching grant pilot program was launched in 2014 that provides all K-12 schools, both public and private, in a five-county area with the opportunity to implement Project Lead The Way's rigorous, world-class STEM programs in science, technology, engineering, and math. In addition to providing every student with access to PLTW, the project will help develop a robust talent pipeline for businesses and industries.

This is just one example of the extraordinary work of place-based philanthropy in local communities throughout the country. The spirit of generosity embodied by over 700 U.S.-based community foundations is a core American value. This week, I am honored to recognize these community foundations for their outstanding efforts.

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