The Community Foundation for South Central New York
Connecting Donors who Care with Causes that Matter
Stories which share the experience of some of our donors. Who they are, why they support funds, impact of their support, etc.
In her career as a financial advisor and manager, Jill Packard helped many people open funds to meet their charitable goals. She has also devoted herself as a volunteer to nonprofit organizations. Given her insider’s view of the mechanics and impact of philanthropy, it was natural that Packard would find her own way to support Read more
Since its Greek yogurt first went on sale in 2007, Chobani has become a powerful force in the economy of Central New York. The company’s philanthropic arm, the Chobani Foundation, has grown along with the brand, supporting efforts to strengthen communities and improve wellness and childhood nutrition. One of the Chobani Foundation’s newest programs is Read more
David Emerson, Tom Emerson and Neil Bartle grew up together in Oxford, where their families have lived for generations. “All three of us love our little community,” says David. Two years ago they put some formal philanthropic power behind that love, working with the Community Foundation to form the Greater Oxford Community Fund. David and Read more
An artist’s grant from the Community Foundation changed Glenda Blake’s life. That gift inspired Glenda and her husband to give back, establishing the Glenda Blake and Leo Cotnoir Fund in 2016, to support artists and community arts activities. Sadly, Glenda passed away in May of 2020, but her legacy will live on with her fund Read more
As young professionals raising a family, Gene and Judy Peckham couldn’t devote much money to community causes. But that didn’t stop them from devoting themselves. The Peckhams discovered the pleasure of public service as Peace Corps volunteers in Peru in the 1960s. “We learned more there than we ever taught anybody,” Judy says. Back in Read more