The annual meeting of the Middletown Community Foundation attracted approximately 200 people from Middletown and neighboring communities to the Manchester Hotel Ballroom on Thursday, November 05, 2009. Many were contributing members of the foundation. Several were guests of members. All were interested in the work of the Foundation. President Larry Powell conducted the short business meeting prior to the announcement of philanthropic awards and individuals honored.

T. Duane Gordon, Executive Director gave many vignettes of organizations and individuals assisted thru the efforts and funds of the Foundation. The Dolly Parton Imagination Library is a continuing project whose aim is to promote reading of underprivileged preschool children. A large effort that extends to many outlying communities, the child is enrolled and provided with an age appropriate book each month for three years. Scholarships, worthy community projects, improvements to local infrastructure, assistance to arts groups - all have and will benefit thru the generosity of local donors. 

Individuals of outstanding accomplishments were presented with awards. Mary Maurer announced the Volunteer of the Year, Jackie Phillips, R.N.  Phyllis Short praised the continuing efforts of Betty Lou Nein bestowing the Mary Jane Palmer Nunlist ‘I Love Middletown’ award. Ron Ely told of the dedication to service of Bill Schaefer, recipient of the President’s Award for community service.

Duane Gordon again took the podium to conclude the evening by announcing the financial grants for the upcoming year. Several individuals present in the audience accepted for their organization/community; Madison Township official for the erection of a shelter, SELF – uplifting lower income peoples, First United Methodist Church for First Friday musical programs, Middletown city manager for the repair of the carillon - to name a few.

It was a wonderful event, a chance to see the fruit of individuals caring for each other giving back to the communities in which they live. The Foundation has its office at 36 Donham Plaza in Middletown and is supported by local donors to support local programs and people.