50 Years | Bryan Area Foundation

“Years from now there will be a foundation ready and able to meet the real needs of the area as they arise. I can’t think of a better way to benefit the region indefinitely than to remember BAF with a gift or bequest.” - Lemuel Hawk 1970-1979 1980’s 1960’s Within the first year, the initial deposit of $500 grew to over $17,000 from 206 donations. A campaign to encourage the community to make “founding donations” of $25 was a big success. The Bryan Times published the names of donors, and Ford Cullis, its publisher and founding member, assured the public that “ The Bryan Times is squarely behind the Bryan Area Foundation as I hope you will be.” The foundation presented its first grant of $200 to Outreach, a local emergency assistance organization. A Toledo Blade writer soon came to interview founders, noting in his feature article how Bryan was one of only 26 community foundations in Ohio. Assets grew, and the BAF awarded scholarships and grants, including $15,000 to the Bryan Community Hospital building fund and $10,000 for the beautification of the courthouse square. In December 1979, Ted Spangler, the Bryan Area Foundation’s second president, welcomed members to the 10th anniversary celebration honoring donors of numerous funds. The Bryan Area Foundation was off and running… Right stuff, right community, right time. Marvin Blanchard receives $200 for Outreach from the Bryan Area Foundation. Also pictured are Forest Witzerman (L), BAF treasurer, and Lem Hawk (R), BAF President. Total Grants & Scholarships 1979 $64,528 FUNDS 1979 14