Just six months after its establishment, the Leadership Portage County Alumni & Friends Endowment Fund at the Portage Foundation has surpassed $100,000, demonstrating the extraordinary generosity of Leadership Portage County alumni, friends, and community supporters who believe in investing in the future of local leadership.
Established in February, the endowed fund was created to provide permanent operational support for Leadership Portage County (LPC), ensuring the organization can continue cultivating informed, engaged leaders who strengthen Portage County for generations to come.
The fund was established through the vision of former LPC class members David and Janet Dix as a way for the community to invest in Leadership Portage County’s long-term success. Since then, alumni and supporters have embraced that vision, growing the endowment to more than $100,000.
“This milestone is a testament to the lasting impact Leadership Portage County has had on so many individuals throughout our community,” said Janice Simmons-Mortimer, Executive Director of the Portage Foundation and member of LPC Class of 2025. “When people believe in an organization enough to invest in its future, it speaks volumes about the difference it has made in their lives and in Portage County. We’re honored to steward this fund and help ensure Leadership Portage County remains strong for years to come.”
The Leadership Portage County Alumni & Friends Endowment Fund is designed to provide sustainable, long-term support for the program. Unlike a one-time gift, an endowment is designed to last forever: the principal remains invested, and a portion of the earnings is distributed each year, turning the investment into a permanent source of support for LPC.
“Leadership Portage County has helped develop leaders who have gone on to strengthen businesses, nonprofits, schools, and communities throughout Portage County,” said Andra Polasky, Executive Director of Leadership Portage County. “This fund provides an avenue for alumni and friends to ensure that opportunity continues for future classes. Reaching $100,000 demonstrates just how much this program means to the people whose lives it has touched.”
The Portage Foundation continues to accept contributions to the Leadership Portage County Alumni & Friends Endowment Fund. For more information about establishing or contributing to this or other endowed funds, visit the Foundation’s website at portagefoundation.org.
