The Portage Foundation

To inspire, impact, and engage the Portage County community


Calling All Area Nonprofit Leaders

Is your nonprofit curious about our Community Grants program? Join us for a free Grant Writing Workshop designed to help local organizations navigate the application process with confidence.

Whether you’re applying for the first time or looking to strengthen your next submission, this hands-on session will walk you through:

  • The components of a Community Grants application
  • Best practices for writing a compelling grant proposal
  • The types of programs and projects that receive funding

Come ready to learn, ask questions, and connect with other local nonprofits working to make a difference in our community.

Date: Friday, July 25th
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Kent Free Library, 2nd Floor Meeting Room


Introducing the Matthew G. Butcher Memorial Scholarship

In memory of Kent Police Department Officer (retired), Unit #234, this scholarship was created to help Kent Roosevelt Seniors on their chosen career path as a first responder or in the mental health field.

Matthew Gordon Butcher spent twenty-two years serving the communities of Brimfield Township and the City of Kent as a Police Officer, with four of those years dedicated to Kent City Schools as the Resource Officer. He had an ability to connect with people on a very real level, and he spent many hours talking with students and staff about life, choices, and navigating high school.

Matt was an inspiration to many, dedicating his time freely to so many people. Our hope is that his memory and the impact he made in this world will live on through this scholarship.

Donations here will support the Matthew G. Butcher Scholarship Fund, which was established by Matt’s family through the Portage Foundation.

Matt dedicated his life to helping area youth. Help us carry that forward with a donation to the Matthew G. Butcher Scholarship Fund.


Partner with the Foundation – Opportunities for Corporate Partnerships are Available Year-Round

Partnering with the Portage Foundation provides your company or organization with valuable visibility and recognition throughout the year. Your partnership will be prominently highlighted at every Portage Foundation event within a 12-month period, including our Donor Appreciation event. This is a unique opportunity to showcase your commitment to community impact while gaining meaningful exposure to our network of donors, supporters, and local leaders. Join us in making a difference and elevate your brand with the Portage Foundation today!


Our Impact

The Power of Giving

This presentation highlights the collective impact made possible through the generosity of our donors and partners in 2025. Together, we celebrate the progress achieved and the momentum carrying us forward into 2026.
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DONORS

Explore giving opportunities that maximize your charitable gift

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NONPROFITS

Discover funding opportunities & our Grants process

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STUDENTS

View the variety of scholarship opportunities for area students 

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ADVISORS

Guide your clients on ways to create a lasting legacy

Imagine Leaving A Legacy Within The Community You Love

The Portage Foundation is a charitable organization created by and for a community of people. It is supported by local donors and overseen by a board of private citizens who work toward the greater good of the community. Funds come from a variety of sources, including bequests and living trusts, and are invested in perpetuity. The investment earnings are then distributed to worthy organizations or causes.

The purpose of a community foundation is two-fold:

  • To grow endowments that will continually benefit its defined area through grant-making and other charitable activities;
  • To serve those who donate to the endowment by helping them to accomplish their charitable goals.

The Portage Foundation, like all community foundations, is governed by a board of trustees comprised of community leaders and is administered by professional staff. Operating expenses are paid from an annual fund fee and from gifts designated by donors to cover foundation operating and program costs.

Your Legacy.

Our Mission.

The impact you have on your community can last long into the future when you partner with the Portage Foundation. Learn more about what we offer and ways you can make an impact

Let’s Talk

Our team is ready to help connect members of the community with the organizations and individuals working to make Portage County a vibrant and resilient area. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and services.

Your legacy, OUR mission.

Create a lasting impact on your most cherished causes while gaining tax benefits for yourself. Contact us today and help build a brighter future.