The Marietta Community Foundation held its 3rd Annual Event on Tuesday, November 14th, hosting more than 150 guests at the Marietta Country Club. In celebration of National Community Foundation Week, the Foundation began a new tradition by recognizing and thanking local individuals and groups who have demonstrated excellence in philanthropy and grantmaking throughout the year.

Heather Allender, Marietta Community Foundation President and CEO, announced the recipients of three awards Tuesday evening: Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year (individual), Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year (business) and Innovation in Grantmaking.

The first recipient to be named 2017 Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year was Marilyn Schafer, whose generosity has made a tremendous difference to the Foundation’s goal of increasing unrestricted grant-making.

“Our unrestricted funds support our annual grant cycles,” said Allender. “Continued growth in unrestricted funding allows the Marietta Community Foundation to keep up with increasing, vital needs within the community.”

Superior Toyota Hyundai was recognized for their philanthropic efforts as a business and their contributions to the Foundation, including their sponsorship of the Grant Your Grant Contest for local nonprofits. Tommy Hathaway and Bob Crock accepted the second award for 2017 Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year on behalf of Superior Toyota Hyundai and TR Hathaway, thanking the Foundation and its donors for their partnership.

The final award for the evening recognized the Innovation in Grantmaking of Mark Schwendeman, Chair of Shale Crescent USA. Shale Crescent USA, which is focused on highlighting the value and uniqueness of Marietta and the Mid-Ohio Valley, was established as an innovative way to stimulate the local economy.

“Shale Crescent USA has poured so much passion and energy into the revitalization of our area economy,” said Allender. “They have met with over 200 organizations, leaders, and prospective businesses, and have done so much more to bring manufacturers to the area and increase job development.”

All three award winners represent how far the Marietta Community Foundation has evolved since its inception four decades ago. Each of their contributions will have a lasting impact on the Foundation, and the community, for years to come.