A few months back, I went to one of those big to-dos. You know the type, one of those events people plan for and talk about for some time. This event was the Diamond Jubilee of the Tipp City Foundation, the anniversary and celebration of a group of individuals originating 75 years earlier, with the sole purpose of creating a great community through a variety of endeavors for many folks whom they’ll probably never know. It happened out at the Willow Tree Inn west of town.
We’ve all been to events like this in the past, where the speakers ramble on like an auctioneer at farm sale or my 10th grade civics teacher giving a discourse about the three branches of government. The type of night where your mind contemplates the hundreds of other things you could be doing, but only have the time to think about doing them when you’re attending a party. And then there are the buffets, which are usually nothing more than reheated ravioli, cheeses sticks, and a small salad bar. Given these experience at past events, usually I’m quite comfortable sitting in the back listening to those long-winded speakers, having a strong run at the buffet, and then quickly calling it a night.
When I arrived, it was the typical experience. There were people socializing, engaging in small banter, imbibing in the spirits of adult beverage, all the while surveying the items available on the buffet catered by the Greenfire Bistro.
But this night was different. For starters, the food was good—real good. But even after I observed the enticing shrimp cocktail, which was calling my name like fried chicken at a family reunion, the funniest thing happened. I got a sense of a stronger community. One in which neighbors care for one another, legacy donors instilling support through gifts for future generations, and the common good is the goal of all. I heard some people talking about the new football stadium (the Foundation has supported it with its largest grant ever) and what it will mean to the community. I talked with one man who just retired and is looking forward to spending more time around town. He spoke to me about the great things the Tipp City Foundation is involved with and which he also supports. I even spoke with some people who I hadn’t seen in years, but happily acted like we were old friends. As the night wound down, I congratulated Matt Buehrer, a local businessman, who was recognized as philanthropist of the year and we had a great conversation. In fact, it seemed like the night ended all too quickly.
In the end, I found myself staying late to help clean up and stacking folding chairs. This reminded me of why I usually don’t enjoy these events, but it also gave me time to reflect on why this one was special. And that’s because all of us who had been there had gathered together because we had each been touched in one-way or another by the Tipp City Foundation’s generosity. Whether it is the bike “fix-it” station, doggie fountain on the bike trail, the expanding tree grove in Kyle Park, the senior citizen center by the post office, the Tipp City Foundation truly has touched all of us. In fact, I’m sure it’s touched you too!
In my mind, I am wondering what their plans will be for next year. I sure hope they’ll have some more shrimp cocktail. I’ve got my calendar open.
STAY CONNECTED
We’d love to stay in touch. Stay connected with the Tipp City Foundation by: Following us on Facebook or Instagram
Visiting our Website
Sending us an Email
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
All marketing activities of the Foundation is 100% underwritten by generous sponsors. Please contact us at info@tippfoundation.org for information on how your business or organization can become our partner in philanthropy.
- Silver Sponsor – Thrivent Financial (Matt Buehrer)
- Bronze Sponsors – Advanced Machinery Companies; Dunaway Family Foundation; Dungan & LeFevre; Ever-Green Turf & Landscape; Gibson Law Offices; Monroe Federal Savings and Loan; New Carlisle Federal Savings Bank; Pickrel, Schaeffer and Ebeling; Unity National Bank
- Friend Sponsors – Captor Corp.; Edward Jones (Neil Nehring); Frings & Bayliff Funeral Home; Minster Bank; RSM US; Turnstone Financial; US Bank
GOOD NEWS IS WORTH SHARING
Use the links below to share the TIPPing Point with friends and neighbors. Not a subscriber? Sign up here! If there is something you would like to see in future installments, please email news@tippfoundation.org. Your input is welcome and appreciated!