The Portage Foundation is a nonprofit, community corporation that acts as a “bridge” between donors and charitable activities that serve area residents.
Our Mission
The Portage Foundation is building a thriving and dynamic community for Portage County and the region. We inspire philanthropy, build endowments, impact causes and foster projects, and engage community leaders.
Portage Foundation 2023 Annual Report
The 2023 Annual Report has been release by the Board of Trustees. The report outlines the impacts the foundation has had within the area and our generous donors.
Meet Our Team
The Portage Foundation office is located at:
6693 N. Chestnut Street, Suite 268-B, Ravenna, Ohio 44266.
Office hours vary, so please contact us at 330-470-8950 to set an appointment.
Please continue to use the following address for all mailings: PO Box 623, Kent, OH 44240
Our Board of Trustees
Our team is led by trusted experts, professional advisors, business and nonprofit executives, and civic leaders intent on ensuring every donation does the most good.
Kamelia Fisher
President
Sr Director of Development & Engagement
Autism Society of Greater Akron
Akron, Ohio
Eric Decker
Vice President
Sr VP/Chief Lending Officer
Portage Community Bank
Kent, Ohio
Beth Padisak
Board Secretary
Co-Owner
Deerfield Ag Services, Inc
Deerfield, Ohio
Linda Zucca
Board Treasurer
Emerita Professor of Accounting
Kent State University
Kent, Ohio
Victor Baerman
Retired
Aurora, Ohio
Lissa Barry
Grants Committee Chair
Retired
New York, New York
John E. Brachna
President
JAACZ Business Growth Services, LLC
Garrettsville, Ohio
Steve Fisher
Sales Representative
Post Glover Resistors
Madison, Indiana
Anne Jorgensen
Advancement Associate
St Vincent St Mary High School
Akron, Ohio
Emeritus Trustees:
Michael Bakes
Marjorie L. Conner
Joann Hayes
Eric Hummel
Ralph Kletzien
Kevin T. Lewis
Debbie Smeiles
Applying for Board Membership
The Portage Foundation Board of Trustees is a highly selective position with a membership process that starts with our online application. Once the application is completed, candidates will be reviewed for eligibility, and those who are selected to move forward will meet with the Board Recruitment Team. Finalists will meet with the Executive Committee for approval and referral to the full board for final acceptance.
Read our Annual 990
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.