Photo by Dani Fresh
A new initiative hopes to “spark” interest in philanthropic giving in central PA.
On Monday, The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC) announced the kickoff of its first-ever Spark! contest and campaign.
Spark! aims to help people within the greater Harrisburg area realize their philanthropic dreams—regardless of their age, gender, income level or ethnicity.
The winner of Spark! will receive a $10,000 area-of-interest fund, in which dollars will be used to support local nonprofits and empower them to make a difference in their communities for a cause they are passionate about.
“The word ‘philanthropy’ has a stigma attached to it. Many assume it is only reserved for a specific type of person, one with a certain amount of wealth and stature,” said TFEC President and CEO Janice Black. “Our vision in creating Spark! is to break down these misconceptions and show members of our communities that anyone can be a philanthropist, and everyone can make a difference.”
Spark! starts off by asking people to consider what motivates them and the causes they care about most. They then submit it for a chance to create their own fund.
Submissions will be accepted through Thursday, June 30. Afterwards, all verified entries will be open to the public for voting.
The top five finalists with the most votes will move on to the closing round, during which the public will cast their final votes and select the winner. The official Spark! winner will be announced Wednesday, Sept. 7.
“TFEC exists to help all individuals make a difference and contribute to the passions and charitable dreams that drive them,” Black said. “Spark! helps us deliver that message and start fostering the next generation of givers. We want everyone to feel empowered and know they can create real change in their community.”
For more details on how to enter, along with eligibility requirements and Spark! contest rules, click here.
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