In light of the erratic economic conditions over the past year and the downward trend in investment earnings, which of course has been experienced worldwide, the Foundation will look back on this experience for its lessons on stewardship of donor gifts. We hold our accountability and responsibility to our donors and to our community to the highest level.

Many changes have taken place over the past year with the GBC Community Foundation. With those changes come new enthusiasm and new ideas. Angie Baur was hired as President/CEO this past year along with the addition of three new board members. Those members are, Elton Parson, EP Enterprise; Robert Vincze, Berexco, Inc.; and Jim Moore, Innovative Technologies. Our combined leadership brings together diverse backgrounds and expertise which add greatly to the organization.

 Our focus centered on enhancing internal controls, processes and procedures in preparation to grow the Foundation so we can bring better service to the community and more greatly fulfill our core mission.

 To help manage our assets and reap the best possible returns, the Board evaluated options and chose INTRUST Bank, Wealth Management Division as the external management team for our investment pool. During the past year, several new named funds were established. Our asset base has now reached over one million dollars.

 At close of our Fiscal Year 2008-09, grants totaling over $34,000 had been distributed to various charitable organizations, groups and causes. A few stories are shared within our 2008 Annual Report, I hope they are as heartfelt to you as it is to me.  Click Here for the Annual Report.

 As chairman of the board, I am proud of our achievements from this past year. I also want to especially thank those that have contributed to the Community Foundation and encourage others to consider us in the future.