Kenny Upthegrove (fourth from left) with the City of Wilmington’s Park and Recreation accepts $75,000 from the Clinton County Foundation’s LEGACY Fund, Sept. 12, 2024.
Stephanie Smith | News Journal photos
WILMINGTON, Ohio – The Clinton County Foundation has awarded $301,666 in grants from its LEGACY Fund to 10 local nonprofit organizations to support regional community initiatives. These funds will help support projects to improve local services and address community needs.
The LEGACY Fund’s mission is to “support the health, well-being and safety of Clinton County residents and provides ongoing financial, charitable support throughout the county,” according to a news release. Organizations that receive a grant must have projects that align with that mission.
Fire departments are primary beneficiaries: The Wilmington Fire Department will use $31,500 to acquire a utility terrain vehicle, while the Clinton County Emergency Management Association will get $27,200 for an FLIR camera – also known as a Forward-Looking Infrared camera – which can detect and visualize heat by capturing infrared radiation emitted by objects and converting it into a visible image.
The Chester Township Fire Department will use $18,425 to purchase a slide-in skid unit. Blanchester Marion Township Fire Department will use $17,600 for a washer and dryer to clean and maintain their firefighting gear, while the Port William-Liberty Township Joint Fire and EMS District will use $15,000 to purchase new protective gear, including helmets, jackets, pants and boots.
Two organizations will be able to improve the quality of life for seniors: The Port William-Lumberton Senior Center will receive $11,200 to improve their facilities with new outside lighting and a handicap-accessible back door, and Clinton County Community Action will receive $27,656 to upgrade its transportation options, making it easier for seniors to participate in social activities and remain engaged in the community.
Area parks will see improvements: The City of Wilmington’s Park and Recreation department will get $75,000 to build new pickleball courts, while the Village of Martinsville will get $37,790 for park restoration projects.
The Clinton-Massie School District will receive funding for new equipment: $40,295 will be used to buy an X-ray machine.
The Clinton County Foundation created the LEGACY Fund in January 2019 using money from the county commissioners’ sale of Clinton Memorial Hospital. The foundation’s goal is to provide “charitable investing and local grants so people and nonprofits can make a lasting and positive impact on our community,” according to the news release.
Grant recipients are selected by the LEGACY Fund governing committee members Harry Brumbaugh, Janet Dixon, Joe Hete, Michelle Morrison and Clinton County Commissioner Mike McCarty.
