Starke County Community Foundation Honors Tri Kappa’s Generosity

Posted on Author WKVI
Carol Blastic, Melba Shilling, Debbie Mix, Suzy Bishop, Colleen McCarthy, President Rhonda Cavinder, Kelly Manning, and Marilyn Swanson. Rhonda Cavinder accepted the acrylic plaque for the 32 active members of the local chapter, who support the local community in the areas of charity, culture, and education.
Carol Blastic, Melba Shilling, Debbie Mix, Suzy Bishop, Colleen McCarthy, President Rhonda Cavinder, Kelly Manning, and Marilyn Swanson. Rhonda Cavinder accepted the acrylic plaque for the 32 active members of the local chapter, who support the local community in the areas of charity, culture, and education.

The Starke County Community Foundation recently honored a local nonprofit organization for the outstanding work they do in the community. The Zeta EtaTri Kappa Chapter received the 2nd annual James R. Hardesty Leadership in Philanthropy Award during the SCCF 20th anniversary celebration.

The award was created in honor of SCCF founder, generous donor and beloved friend, James “Jim” Hardesty. He passed away in 2014.

The Zeta Eta Tri Kappa Chapter has awarded more than $250,000 in scholarships and awards to graduating Starke County seniors over the last 54 years. That’s in addition to other philanthropic support they provide to Starke County.

SCCF officials say the annual award will alternate between an individual and an organization. Last year Marilyn and Mathew Swanson received the Hardesty Award in recognition of their contributions to the Community Foundation, where they helped create the Ancilla/SCILL Center Fund, as well as The Mat and Marilyn Swanson Family Fund.