Knox County Foundation

10/22/2026

Attended Charitable University in 2022? It's time to renew your certification!

Charitable University returns to Knox County on November 12, offering nonprofit board members and leaders valuable training in nonprofit governance, financial oversight, fundraising, and more.

Whether you're attending for the first time or returning for recertification, this training is designed for you.

🗓 Thursday, November 12 | 9 a.m.–Noon
📍 Ramser 4-H Center, Mount Vernon

Register by November 6: https://www.knoxcf.org/knox-network-of-nonprofits/

10/20/2026

Lasting philanthropy often begins with everyday people who care about the place they call home. Donald W. Clutter was one of those people.

Through his estate, Donald established a trust that created the Donald W. Clutter Fund at the Knox County Foundation. The fund distributes thousands of dollars annually through the Foundation's competitive grantmaking program, supporting local nonprofits and helping meet needs throughout our community.

A Mount Vernon native and World War II veteran, Donald spent an incredible 62 years working at Pond Tire, where he served as general manager and became known as a “walking encyclopedia of rubber.”

His story is a reminder that generosity can continue making a difference long after a lifetime.

📷 Donald W. Clutter featured in a vintage Pond Tire advertisement. Image courtesy of Pond Tire.

10/19/2026

⏰ Registration closes tomorrow, October 20, for the KNN Fundraising Workshop with Lori Overmyer!

Knox County nonprofit leaders, staff and board members are invited to join us for this in-depth afternoon training focused on practical strategies to strengthen your nonprofit’s fundraising efforts.

We’ll explore engaging board members in fundraising, building donor relationships, reconnecting with lapsed donors, identifying new prospects, preparing for year-end fundraising and more.

Tuesday, October 27, Noon–5 p.m.
Ramser 4-H Center, 700 Perimeter Drive, Mount Vernon
Lunch provided

Register by Tuesday, October 20, at knoxcf.org/knox-network-of-nonprofits/

10/15/2026

Congratulations to Carolyn Fergus and Interchurch Social Services of Knox County on receiving the Bill Nance III Award for Agency Innovation from the Mid-Ohio Food Collective! 👏

The award recognizes Interchurch's innovative and collaborative approach to addressing food insecurity in Knox County.

That spirit of collaboration was especially evident last November, when the federal government shutdown put local SNAP benefits at risk. Interchurch, Food For The Hungry of Knox County, and Knox County Foundation worked together to organize two pop-up food pantries, with support from community volunteers and partner organizations.

As Carolyn shared when accepting the award:

“I was honored to accept the award on behalf of ISS. It is our staff, volunteers, and a community with a shared vision of how to take care of our neighbors that makes what we do possible.”

Congratulations to Carolyn and the entire Interchurch team on this well-deserved recognition! 💙

10/14/2026

Great news for everyone who enjoys the Kokosing Gap Trail! 🚴‍♀️ After weeks of repaving and improvements, this well-loved community trail is ready for walkers, runners, and cyclists to enjoy.

Knox County Foundation has been glad to support the trail over the years, including two recent grants totaling $175,000 toward the repaving project.

These improvements represent a much larger collaborative investment, made possible through public funding, community support, and the efforts of many local partners.

Thanks to everyone who helped make this project possible!

The KGT is OPEN: The 6-week-long repaving project is nearly complete with only minor tasks remaining. The last concrete bridge approach was poured today. The milling of the old asphalt, laying of new asphalt, berming of edges, bridge approach repairs, and ADA pad installation are all complete. Come and enjoy the new KGT. It's a smooth ride.

10/13/2026

Fall is starting to show its colors! Where's your favorite place to enjoy fall in Knox County? 🍂

We captured a few glimpses of the season while exploring some local spots.

📸 Have a fall photo of your own? Feel free to share it in the comments!

10/12/2026

Pursuing career or technical training? A Knox County Foundation scholarship may be able to help.

Career and Technical Education Scholarships are available to Knox County residents attending or planning to attend eligible occupational training programs of two years or less.

The next application deadline is Thursday, October 15.

Learn more about eligibility and apply at KnoxCF.org/careertech-scholarships

10/09/2026

Earlier this week, KCF Senior Program Director Lisa Lloyd led a Lunch & Learn for Knox Young Professionals. The takeaway? Serving on a nonprofit board is an opportunity to make a difference in your community and grow as a leader!

The session explored the purpose of nonprofit boards, the key responsibilities of board members, and how to approach board service with confidence and a clear understanding of governance.

Thanks to the Knox County Chamber of Commerce for organizing the event and The Retreat at Mount Vernon for hosting!

📷 Photos courtesy of the Knox County Chamber of Commerce.

10/08/2026

It doesn't get much better than fall on the Kokosing River. 🍁 We're fortunate to have so many beautiful places to explore right here in Knox County. Thanks to the Knox County Park District for sharing this view!

It's a great time to enjoy the autumn leaves as your kayak floats down the scenic Kokosing River.