At the Henry County Community Foundation, we see every day how generosity shapes our community. The Choose Henry Flex Fund is a beautiful example of that. Built by donors who care deeply about Henry County, this flexible fund allows us to respond to needs as they arise, supporting local nonprofits, meeting urgent challenges, and investing in long-term opportunities for growth and connection.

Recently, we wanted to give our donors a chance to see their impact in action. So, at the end of October, we launched something new, the Choose Henry Express. This first-ever bus tour took Choose Henry donors on a journey to visit three local nonprofits that have received Choose Henry grants: Hagar’s Hope, God’s Grain Bin, and The Salvation Army of Henry County.

Each stop was a reminder of what’s possible when we come together to care for one another.

At Hagar’s Hope, we heard from Jaime Owens about their mission to support women in recovery and re-entry. With a $15,000 grant from the Foundation, they repaired the roof of the Williams’ House, sealing the building and protecting it from further damage, allowing them to continue work on the home’s interior. Additionally, a grant from our Women’s Circle of Friends Grantmaking Gala in 2024 helped fund scholarships for women as they re-establish themselves and begin new careers. These are investments not only in a home, but in hope.

At God’s Grain Bin, Director David Hall shared how their volunteer-led team provides food to thousands of Henry County residents each year. Since 2009, they’ve received more than $138,000 in support from the Choose Henry Flex Fund, including a recent $42,635 grant to upgrade refrigeration systems and complete a nonprofit audit. Their work is a powerful example of faith and community in action, keeping food fresh, doors open, and hearts full.

Finally, at The Salvation Army of Henry County, Beth Stamper shared how their programs meet local needs through food, gifts, and assistance. A Choose Henry grant earlier this year supported their summer camp, helping local kids build friendships, confidence, and lasting memories.

Throughout the day, donors shared their appreciation for the organizations they visited and for the generosity that made it all possible. One donor and Foundation grants committee member, Betty Geozeff, said it best:

“Try to find another community that cares as much as ours does. You can’t.”

The Choose Henry Express is more than a bus tour. It’s a bridge between giving and impact, connecting donors to the people and stories behind every grant. It’s a reminder that when we choose Henry County, we choose each other.

That’s something worth celebrating.