Heritage Fund – The Community Foundation of
Bartholomew County is proud to announce the launch of its Golden Joybilee,
a yearlong celebration honoring 50 years of philanthropy, partnership and
community impact. To commemorate its milestone anniversary, the community
foundation will be committing 50 Acts of Joy throughout the year.
“For half a century, Heritage Fund has been a catalyst for good in Bartholomew
County,” President and CEO Edie Blakeslee said. “The Golden Joybilee is our
way of celebrating with people and partners who shape this community. Joy
grows when it’s shared.”
Founded in 1976, Heritage Fund has spent five decades strengthening
the community through strategic grantmaking, donor stewardship and
collaborative leadership. The Golden Joybilee offers an opportunity not only to celebrate the foundation’s legacy but also to get energized for the next half-
century of impact.
Throughout the year, Heritage Fund will complete a series of acts designed to
spread joy, including surprising local nonprofits with mini grant awards, taking
part in volunteer efforts and offering fun activities for the community.
As part of the celebration, the foundation has enlisted its crew of “Joyriders”
– Heritage Fund board, staff and supporters — to participate in the joy-filled
activities. The Joyriders’ inaugural Act of Joy was a recent stop at Sans Souci
thrift store to deliver several carloads of donations and chat with Executive
Director Sheryl Adams and Outreach Coordinator Courtney Foust about the
work of the nonprofit that provides low-cost household items, books and
clothing and employment opportunities to residents.
“We’re so grateful to be part of Heritage Fund’s Golden Joybilee,” Adams said.
“These donated goods will directly support our neighbors and our mission of
creating a “community where everyone can live life ‘without worry.’”
Heritage Fund office corgi Moon also is getting in on the joy. The four-legged
Joyrider took a birthday trip to Speck’s Pet Supplies to pick out treats and toys
and deliver them to Animal Care Services, where they were joyfully received.
“The animals and staff at Columbus Animal Care Services would like to thank
Moon for her well thought-out choices of gifts, treats and food. We are so
grateful to be included in 50 Acts of Joy for the year. We thrive on the donations
that are provided to the shelter from the community,” said Julie Daiker, volunteer
and social media coordinator.
Follow Heritage Fund for all the Golden Joybilee activities on Facebook and
Instagram at @heritagefundbc.