Hardy County Community Foundation

08/28/2026

Our Two Rivers Giving Circle Grant application is now open:
https://www.ewvcf.org/2026-two-rivers-giving-circle-grant-application/

The Two Rivers Giving Circle is one of the few local sources of grants for Eastern Panhandle nonprofit groups that are engaged in historic preservation and natural resource conservation.

Two Rivers Giving Circle members come from Jefferson, Berkeley, and Morgan counties, and confine their grant making to those counties.

For details and link to apply, go to: https://www.ewvcf.org/2026-two-rivers-giving-circle-grant-application/ Applications close on September 14.

08/10/2026

Flash flooding has disrupted homes, small businesses, and neighborhoods across Lewis County, but together, we can help them rebuild. The Parkersburg Area Community Foundation set up the Lewis County Emergency Relief Fund to offer assistance. See details in the post.

By linking generations of the region’s caring citizens together and encouraging them to think about what’s best for us all, we can dream bigger and do more

08/07/2026

In case you missed it!

CULTIVATING STEWARDSHIP FOR THE ENVIRONMENT
Connecting Students with Nature

With support from the Eastern West Virginia Community Foundation, the (PVAS) continues to bring hands-on nature education to students across the Eastern Panhandle. Guided by its mission to preserve, restore, and enjoy the natural world through education and action, PVAS uses immersive outdoor experiences to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.

This Youth & Education Grant supported nature-based programs for nearly 600 Jefferson County students at South Jefferson Elementary, Ranson Elementary, Martin Robison Delany Opportunity Learning Center, and Blue Ridge Elementary. Through interactive lessons about Bird Beaks, Bugs-a-Billion, and Busy Beavers, many students experienced the wonders of nature for the very first time.

Whether overcoming a fear of insects, discovering wildlife up close, or developing a deeper appreciation for the outdoors, students left with greater confidence, curiosity, and a lasting connection to the natural world. These experiences help cultivate a lifelong sense of wonder—and stewardship—for the environment.

Read more articles in our latest newsletter at https://mailchi.mp/ewvcf/news-july-16

08/04/2026

A group of dedicated educators and school administrators from Capon Bridge Middle School, Charles Town Middle School, and Mountain Ridge Middle School recently joined fellow West Virginia educators in Atlanta, Georgia, for the inspiring Ron Clark Academy Ignite the Classroom Experience.

They returned energized with fresh ideas, innovative strategies, and a renewed passion for creating engaging learning environments for their students. We look forward to seeing their enthusiasm spread throughout their schools and districts, inspiring colleagues and making a lasting impact on students across our communities.

Thank you for your commitment to excellence in education and for investing in the future of West Virginia's children!

08/03/2026

In case you missed it!

For the past seven years, Lost River Projects & The Baker Food Pantry (LRP) has hosted its popular Music in the Park concert series with support from the Hardy County Community Impact Fund and the John R. and Agnes J. Mathias Funds.

Created to strengthen community connections, encourage use of Baker Park, enrich quality of life through live music, and support local musicians, the free summer series has become a beloved Hardy County tradition. Four concerts are held on the Fridays leading up to the start of the school year, featuring performers from Hardy, Hampshire, and neighboring counties.

More than a concert series, Music in the Park has become a gathering place where friends, families, and neighbors reconnect. Attendees now arrive early to socialize before the music begins, and conversations continue well into intermission. Set against the scenic backdrop of Baker Park, the series celebrates the region's musical talent while creating opportunities for community, fellowship, and shared experiences—all at no cost to attendees.

The 2026 Music in the Park concert series kicks off on Friday, July 31 featuring the Tide Spring, a group from Rockingham County known for their grassy roots and bluegrass music. For information about the other 2026 performances or about Lost River Projects, in general, visit them on Facebook at Lost River Projects & The Baker Food Pantry
Read more articles in our latest newsletter at https://mailchi.mp/ewvcf/news-july-1

07/28/2026

In case you missed it!

A SEASON OF LEARNING, IMAGINATION, AND DISCOVERY
Keeping Young Minds Engaged All Summer

The Martinsburg-Berkeley County Public Libraries' Summer Reading Programs help children and families turn summer into a season of learning, imagination, and discovery. Research shows that students lose, on average, about one month of instructional learning over the summer break. The library's summer 2025 program, Color Our World, was partially funded through an EWVCF Youth & Education Grant and was designed to help prevent this "summer slide" by making reading and learning fun.

Through free reading challenges, book clubs, hands-on activities, and creative experiences celebrating art and diverse cultures, the program encourages children, teens, and adults to stay engaged all summer long.

More than a reading program, Color Our World reminds us that learning doesn't end when school lets out. Whether through the pages of a book, exploring nature, or participating in community events, every summer experience is an opportunity to grow, helping students return to school more confident, prepared, and ready to succeed.

Read more articles in our latest newsletter at https://mailchi.mp/ewvcf/news-july-16

07/23/2026

If you’d like to join the Lewis/Upshur County flood relief efforts, please consider a donation to directly benefit those in need by using this link: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/lewisupshurfloodfund/

Spreading the word of this opportunity among your networks is appreciated.

💙 When any West Virginia community hurts, we all come together.

The devastating flooding in Lewis and Upshur counties has left families facing tremendous loss and uncertainty. Right now, they need the support of neighbors across our state as they begin the difficult journey of recovery.

The West Virginia United Ways have established the Lewis/Upshur Flood Relief Fund to provide direct assistance to individuals and families impacted by the flooding. Every donation will help meet immediate needs while supporting long term recovery efforts.

No gift is too small. 100% of funds donated will be used directly to support neighbors during this time of need. Together, we can remind those affected that they are not facing this alone.

💙 Donate today: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/lewisupshurfloodfund/

07/23/2026

Lost River Pride Scholarship
The Lost River Pride Scholarship benefits graduating seniors or prior year graduates from any high school in Grant, Hampshire, Hardy, or Pendleton Counties who have demonstrated support and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community by having actively engaged in activities that promote equality and oppose discrimination.

07/23/2026

Bob and Betty Wilson Family Scholarship Fund
Founded in 2017, this fund benefits students graduating from a high school in Hardy County who plan to pursue a degree in one of the STEM fields.

07/17/2026

Spread the word about upcoming grant opportunities! Learn more about how grants are making positive impacts on our communities this summer in our latest newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/ewvcf/news-july-16