For More Information
Paul Lindsey (309) 944-0580
November 3, 2008
GIFT FOUNDATION PROVIDES FUNDS FOR FOUR LOCAL AGENCIES
A recent distribution from the Ristau fund, under the management of Geneseo’s GIFT
Foundation, helped a number of local not-for-profit agencies meet their annual funding
requirements.
The Humane Society is a no kill shelter that has placed 85 cats and 28 dogs in new homes
in 2008. Besides dealing with strays, the group’s president, Karen Russell, noted that it is
a place where older folks, who can no longer care for their pets, can bring them and be
assured they will be well cared for until a new home is found. The Humane Society is
currently in the process of raising funds to build a new facility.
Rebuilding Together, Geneseo/Cambridge has helped 11 homeowners make needed
repairs in 2008. Joni Conrad, executive director of the group explains how the value of
donated and purchased materials grows through the group’s work. “Historically we have
been able to nearly double the impact of grant funding through in-kind donations.”
Volunteers provided over 1400 hours of labor in the past year.
Hammond-Henry Hospital Auxiliary provides help in purchasing equipment and
scholarships. Auxiliary member Vera Munati described one of the scholarships. “We
support C.N.A. students with help through a program that is a joint venture between the
hospital, Blackhawk College and the High School.
Growth, Inc. will use its grant to help offset a nearly half million dollar-operating budget.
“We’ve been providing quality child care since 1974,” says Director Shelly Gorman.
Currently services are provided for 140 children.
Paul Lindsey, GIFT President, helped Gretchen Ristau establish her fund many years ago.
“She would be happy with our distributions. They have been made to the types of
organizations she named so long ago.” Lindsey also noted that it is nice that she receives
recognition for her kindness and community spirit each year at this time.