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News + Events   >  November 2023 | Funds News

November 2023 | Funds News

11.14.23

News and updates about charitable funds making a difference in our communities!


Electric City Foundation Announced to Preserve Parks and Historic Buildings

To safeguard the rich heritage and green spaces that define Scranton, on Wednesday, November 9th the City of Scranton and the Scranton Area Community Foundation proudly announced the launch of the Electric City Foundation. This philanthropic endeavor, a collaborative venture between the City of Scranton and the Scranton Area Community Foundation, aims to ensure the preservation and longevity of our beloved parks and historic landmarks by supporting programs, projects, and organizations which benefit the Scranton community.

PHOTO: City of Scranton Mayor Paige G. Cognetti pictured with Laura Ducceschi, Scranton Area Community Foundation President & CEO, and board members of the Electric City Foundation at Nay Aug Park’s Schimelfenig Pavilion on Wednesday, November 8, during a press conference to announce the Electric City Foundation.

“We are proud to have a long-standing relationship with the City of Scranton and, through the new Electric City Foundation established at the Scranton Area Community Foundation, many areas of focus in the City will benefit residents and the community, including preservation of city buildings and city parks, and more,” stated Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “The Electric City Foundation is a perfect example of how collaboration can lead to a stronger community,” Ducceschi added. “We are grateful to partner with the City of Scranton to administer this new charitable Foundation.”

The Electric City Foundation is currently accepting donations at www.safdn.org.

Support the Electric City Foundation

Watch the press coverage of the Electric City Foundation launch


Margaretta Belin Chamberlin Award and Roseann Smith Alperin Award Presented During Women in Philanthropy Annual Celebration

The 2023 recipients of the Margaretta Belin Chamberlin Award and the Roseann Smith Alperin Award were awarded on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, during the Women in Philanthropy Annual Event which took place at POSH at the Scranton Club.”

The 2023 Margaretta Belin Chamberlin Award was presented to recipient Karen Clifford.

The 2023 Roseann Smith Alperin Award was presented to Natalie O’Hara.

“Both recipients are an inspiration to others and are recognized for their integrity and selfless dedication to our community,” stated Laura Ducceschi, President and CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation.

Both awards are presented annually through the support of charitable funds established at the Scranton Area Community Foundation. These charitable funds were established to memorialize a loved one and to honor qualities of leadership and excellence that exist in members of our community.

About the Margaretta Belin Chamberlin Award

PHOTO: Will Chamberlin and Kathleen Graff, children of Margaretta Belin Chamberlin, present the 2023 Margaretta Belin Chamberlin Award to Karen Clifford during the Women in Philanthropy Annual Celebration on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at POSH at the Scranton Club. (l-r): Will Chamberlin and Kathleen Graff with Karen Clifford. Photo credit: Michael Straub Photography.

The Margaretta Belin Chamberlin Award has been presented since 1992 to honor her memory and to recognize the accomplishments of women in our community while encouraging their personal and/or professional development. The Margaretta Belin Chamberlin Award is presented annually to a woman whose vision, dedication, and courage have enhanced the quality of life and expanded the opportunities for the people within her community and whose creative interests, energies, and service to others have contributed substantially to the betterment of her community.


About the Roseann Smith Alperin Award

PHOTO: Noelle Griffiths, president elect of the Junior League of Scranton, presents the 2023 Roseann Smith Alperin Award to Natalie O’Hara during the Women in Philanthropy Annual Celebration on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at POSH at the Scranton Club. (l-r): Noelle Griffiths, president elect of the Junior League of Scranton, with Natalie O’Hara. Photo credit: Michael Straub Photography.

The Roseann Smith Alperin Award was established in 1996 by the Junior League of Scranton to recognize an outstanding, highly engaged female volunteer who exhibits the heart and spirit of Roseann Smith Alperin by demonstrating the capacity to lead, motivate, and inspire others and the community she serves.


The Scranton Area Community Foundation manages many charitable funds that provide awards to individuals that possess the important qualities that donors would like to recognize. To establish a fund that honors a loved one, contact us today.


Flood Relief Grant Programs Bring Aid to Lackawanna County

Following recent flooding in our community, the Scranton Area Community Foundation has launched two flood relief grant programs. These programs offer financial support and assistance to residents, small businesses, and community organizations affected by the September 9th flooding event, aiding in the rebuilding of lives and homes. Both programs are funded through the Lackawanna County Flood Relief Fund at the Scranton Area Community Foundation.

Donate to the Lackawanna County Flood Relief Fund

In addition to the above flood relief programs, residents in the City of Scranton directly impacted by flood events may apply for relief through the City of Scranton’s Disaster Recovery individual Assistance Program. Administered by the Scranton Area Community Foundation, this grant program is made possible through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant funding.

PHOTO (l-r): Frank Caputo, Scranton Area Community Foundation Grants & Communications Coordinator; City of Scranton Mayor Paige Gebhardt Cognetti; and members of Scranton City Council at a press conference announcing the City of Scranton Disaster Recovery Individual Assistance Program.

Flood Relief Grant Programs in the News:

Funding is coming for Lackawanna County flood victims

Scranton announces flood relief grants for affected residents

Scranton announces flood relief grant details, application window opens Monday

Scranton officials announce $5K in flood recovery grants


All three flood relief grant programs are now accepting applications through the Scranton Area Community Foundation’s online portal. Additional information, including eligible uses of program funds, may be found below:

Learn more and apply for support here