By Ryan Duey

The Community Foundation of Dickinson County is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, The Foundation has evolved from a project to fund a new recreation center in Abilene to a robust organization supporting scholarships, grants, and community projects.

Originally formed as the Abilene Community Foundation, the initiative began with 49 investors contributing $5,000 each. The foundation raised funds to secure both private and public dollars, leading to taxpayer approval for the recreation center.

Renamed in 2005, the Foundation now manages over 250 funds, including 55 scholarships. It has granted a total of $11.8 million, with $2.4 million distributed last year alone. The foundation supports entrepreneurs, non-profits, and various community needs, ensuring long-term benefits for Dickinson County.

Elizabeth Weese, Executive Director since 2018, highlighted the foundation’s role in sustaining community improvements and looks forward to a future move to a new office, ongoing community engagement, and appreciation events.