Reflecting on 2025: A Legacy of Impact, A Future of Hope
As 2025 comes to a close, we are pausing to reflect on what our community has accomplished together and to look ahead with optimism as we enter 2026.
At the Henry County Community Foundation, the past year reminded us that local generosity makes a real difference. Whether responding to urgent needs or supporting long-term progress, donors, nonprofits, and community partners worked together to strengthen Henry County.
Neighbors Helping Neighbors
One of the most powerful examples of community care this year came as rising food costs and changes to SNAP benefits put additional pressure on families and local food pantries. When the need increased, neighbors responded.
Pantries adjusted schedules, meal programs expanded, and organizations shared information so families knew where to find help. Volunteers stepped up, donors gave, and pantry shelves stayed stocked during uncertain times.
To provide a sustainable solution, the Foundation launched the Feeding Henry County Fund, a flexible resource for donors to support hunger-relief organizations and community efforts.
Celebrating 40 Years of Impact
2025 marked a special milestone for the Henry County Community Foundation: 40 years of connecting donors who care with causes that matter. Over four decades, the Foundation has helped strengthen local nonprofits through grants, supported students through scholarships, and responded to the evolving needs of our community.
The anniversary celebration provided an opportunity to reflect on stories of impact and to recognize those whose generosity helped shape Henry County. It was also a moment to celebrate how our community has grown stronger through collective giving.
Investing in Long-Term Community Growth
In 2025, the Foundation also expanded its approach to community progress through a first-of-its-kind impact investment. Partnering with Affordable Housing Solutions of Henry County and Citizens State Bank, the Foundation made a $1 million impact investment loan to help address the local need for attainable housing.
Unlike a traditional grant, this loan will be repaid, allowing the Foundation to reinvest those same dollars into future community projects. The investment supports the development of quality, affordable homes priced for working families. By backing this effort, the Foundation is investing in stability, opportunity, and growth for local families.
Looking Ahead to 2026
While 2025 offered many reasons to be proud, it also set the stage for what’s to come.
There’s hope in families gaining access to homes that help build stability. There’s hope in students pursuing education supported by scholarship funds. There’s hope in nonprofits continuing to adapt and collaborate in service of our community. And there’s hope in a community that shows up again and again for its neighbors.
As we begin 2026, the Foundation remains committed to stewarding generosity, strengthening partnerships, and helping ensure that Henry County continues to thrive now and for generations to come.
Thank you to everyone who played a part in making 2025 a year of impact. We look forward to what we’ll accomplish together in the year ahead.