Foundation gives more than $90K to nonprofits

PORT CLINTON — A local foundation recently awarded funding to support efforts that make a positive impact in the community. The Ottawa County Community Foundation provided more than $90,000 in community grants and special awards during its annual awards presentation, which took place earlier this month. A total of 33 nonprofits received money to carry out a wide range of impactful programs and services across Ottawa County. "For 25 years, the Ottawa County Community Foundation has worked to enhance the quality of life for our citizens," the foundation's executive director Shea McGrew said. "By awarding grants to deserving organizations and initiatives, (the foundation) addresses critical needs and seeks solutions to the challenges in our community," McGrew said. "Our thanks to the nonprofit leaders whose dedication to Ottawa County is remarkable." The grants help initiatives ranging from youth development and environmental education to food security, the arts and emergency services. Each grant represents a story of transformation, as shared by the recipients during the event, the foundation noted. Among this year's grant recipients: • Cancer Services — financial support for cancer patients and families • Courageous Community Services — camp experiences for youth with developmental disabilities • Habitat for Humanity of Ottawa County — home repairs for elderly and disabled residents • Lake Erie Islands Conservancy — preservation of historic agricultural buildings • Sleep in Heavenly Peace — Beds for Children ages 3-17 who have none People can see the full list by visiting ottawaccf.org. Funding for these grants is made possible through earnings from the foundation's community funds, donor-advised funds and private donations. Award presentation In addition to the grants, the foundation also presented the 2025 Joy Roth Little Tiger Award to the Ottawa County Business Advisory Council. This award honors the legacy of the foundation's founder, Joy Roth, who passed away in 2020 and was affectionately known as a "little tiger" for her fierce dedication to community service. Accepting this award on behalf of the council: Katherine Adams, director of workforce innovation at the Ottawa County Improvement Corp., and Clay Finken, the council's chair. The council was recognized for its leadership in launching the skilled trades academy in 2019 and the state-tested nurse aide program in 2024. "We can't do this without each other. We can't do this without our community," Adams said. "We wouldn't be here today without the support we have received from (the foundation) since 2019." People can learn more about the foundation, its grant programs and how to get involved by visiting ottawaccf.org, emailing ottawaccf@gmail.com or calling 419-635-7750.