The Starke County Community Foundation is honoring one of its founders. Cherry Gumz was presented with the foundation’s 2017 James R. Hardesty Leadership in Philanthropy Award last week.
From 1996 to 2008, Gumz served as the Starke County Community Foundation’s second president. Foundation officials credit Gumz’ hard work and dedication with helping to make the foundation possible. As part of the award, Gumz was given a $500 gift, which she donated to the Richard Gumz Scholarship Fund.
The Hardesty Award was presented during the foundation’s annual Community Impact Reception last Thursday in Knox. Also during the event, Gene Ladd was recognized for his 10 years of service on the Northern Indiana Community Foundation Board of Directors. NICF Executive Director Jay Albright called Ladd a “hidden gem” of Starke County.
