We all have so much to be thankful for this time of year. This is no different for each of us here at the Springfield Foundation. In the spirit of the season, we each wanted to share what we are grateful for, specifically within the Springfield community, to continue amplifying the good.

“I am grateful for all the great arts and cultural opportunities available in Springfield.  We have our own Museum of Art, symphony orchestra, summer arts festival, historical society, Gammon House, Westcott House, Performing Arts Center, and so much more.  It’s a great place to live and raise a family and I’m grateful to call Springfield my home.”

             - Susan Carey, Executive Director

“As a transplant coming to Springfield 11 years ago, I've found our community to be welcoming, passionate, generous, and resilient. I’m grateful to live in a place where I can enjoy the parks, the arts, and a sense of community that genuinely supports one another.”

             - Sarah McPherson, Director of Marketing and Development

“This year and every year, I’m profoundly grateful for the unwavering dedication of our Springfield firefighters, EMTs, and police officers. Their courage and selflessness in the face of danger ensure our safety and well-being, often at great personal sacrifice. Their service is a reminder of the strength and heart within our community, and I am deeply appreciative of all they do to protect and support us.”

             - Raphael Allen, PhD, Director of Community Outreach

“I'm grateful for our vibrant community, where unique attractions like the Hartman Rock Garden and local events such as the Jazz and Blues Festival foster a sense of connection and unity. Being part of these experiences not only deepens my appreciation for local culture but also strengthens my ties to the people who make this city feel like home.”

             - Lori Boegershausen, Director of Grants

“From the Police to the Fire Department to the Teachers to our Healthcare system, there are so many people who work behind the scenes to insure our peace, health, education, and safety. While many communities across our country deal with unrest and fear, we enjoy our freedom of being able to walk to our cars alone in the parking lots, walk freely downtown and in our parks because we feel a sense of safety and security. We know that the people of Springfield will go the extra mile should the need arise.”

             - Joyce Dawson, Financial Officer

“I am grateful for all the beautiful parks that we have in Clark County.  They are well-kept and provide a safe environment for families to spend time together.”

             - Teresa Brumfield, Scholarship Manager

“I am grateful for all the veterans who have served our nation, some with the ultimate sacrifice, and the school programs that honor them. Also for Autumn Trails Stables, who provides valuable programs to children and adults with special needs, as well as a program for veterans and first responders. They show the bond between a horse and a human being that is unbreakable and meaningful.”

             - Wendy Voorhees, Executive Assistant/Office Manager

“I am grateful for the philanthropists in our community. I am blessed to see the profoundly positive effect their generosity provides to so many great causes. Also for diversity within our community, I enjoy being surrounded by people with various backgrounds and cultures, learning about one another, and the beauty of unity as we all come together for the holidays.”

             - Brittney Dietsch, Staff Accountant

“The minute I stepped foot in Springfield as a high school senior looking for the right college, I knew I was in a community that felt like home. Through my college years at Wittenberg, my early professional life here in downtown, and everything in between, I’ve always felt like I was a part of something bigger than myself as an active member of this community. Springfield will always have a special place in my heart, no matter where my life takes me, and I will forever be grateful for all it has given me.”

             - Jenna Hurst-Bluemlein, Communications and Donor Services Associate

If you’d like to give back to something in the community you’re grateful for, contact the Foundation at 937-324-8773 or info@springfieldfoundation.org to learn about options available!

For good. For ever. For all.