Washington County Community Foundation announces presidential awards
Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern Pennsylvania (DVSSP) received the President’s Silver Award from the Washington County Community Foundation, which includes a $25,000 grant. Pictured, from left, are DVSSP CEO Lisa Hannum and Board Chairman Mike McClaine.
Washington Christian Outreach Treasurer William Rauch (left), Secretary Debbie Boardley (middle) and Vice President Gary Beam (right) accept the Washington County Community Foundation’s President’s Crystal Award. The award comes with a $10,000 grant.
Trew
The Washington County Community Foundation (WCCF) recently presented presidential awards to two local charities.
Washington Christian Outreach (WCO) received the President’s Crystal Award and Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern Pennsylvania (DVSSP) received the President’s Silver Award.
Initiated in 2008 in conjunction with the 10th anniversary of the foundation’s president and CEO Betsie Trew, the Crystal Award includes a $10,000 grant and supports a small but improving charity. This is the first presentation of the President’s Silver Award, which commemorates Trew’s 25th anniversary this year. The Silver Award recognizes more established charities that have met industry best practices regarding governance, management and fundraising, and includes a $25,000 grant.
WCO directly assists individuals and families in need. Located in the low-income Highland Ridge section of Washington, the WCO’s soup kitchen served hot meals to 7,400 people in 2022. The organization also operates a store where families can select clothing, personal items and household essentials all free of charge. The WCO will use the $10,000 grant for facility improvements.
DVSSP offers free services and support to anyone affected by domestic violence, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, socio-economic status or ability. In 2022, DVSSP made a significant impact, serving 2,170 individuals and responding to 3,240 hotline calls. In Washington County alone, 1,278 individuals received services, and 1,916 hotline calls were answered. The $25,000 grant included with the award will be used to develop a new and improved website, providing accessible information for clients and the community.
Both awards are administered through an open and competitive process. Complete eligibility requirements and evaluation criteria are detailed on the foundation’s website at www.wccf.net.