There is so much happening at the Portage Foundation everyday! Check back here to see the latest news, announcements and updates regarding our programming, grants, scholarships and more.
The Portage Foundation is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 Community Grant cycle, awarding more than $58,000 to 30 local organizations and initiatives working to improve quality of life across Portage County. Funding will support programs in education, health, human services, food security, economic development, and the arts—advancing the Foundation’s mission of connecting …
The recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) is changing the landscape of charitable giving. While new rules create challenges, they also open doors for thoughtful planning. That’s why 2025 is an especially important year to connect with your attorney, CPA, and financial advisor. At Portage Foundation, we are ready to work alongside you …
The Portage Foundation has reactivated its Rapid Response Fund to help meet urgent community needs as many local families face the possibility of reduced access to federal food assistance. The Fund will provide emergency, flexible grants to nonprofit organizations and public agencies working to ensure that residents have access to food and essential services during this period of uncertainty.
From ghost walks to mead tastings to military history, unique experiences go up for bid this September This September, area residents can unlock unforgettable adventures while making a meaningful impact. The Experience Portage County Online Auction supporting the Portage Foundation, running September 1 through September 30, features an exciting lineup of one-of-a-kind packages designed to showcase …
Making sure that the inheritance you leave to your loved ones doesn’t become a curse An inheritance can launch your family to achieve greater accomplishments, or it can destroy their lives. Learn about actual case studies and specific techniques to give meaning and significance to what you leave to your family. Create a legacy that …
The Portage Foundation has awarded $44,000 in scholarships for 2024. The scholarships were awarded in a wide range of areas, including a scholarship for students entering trades. The following award recipients were organized by school:
The Board of Trustees of the Portage Foundation recently awarded over $133,000 in grants to 23 area non-profit organizations. The awards reflected the foundation’s key funding priority areas and included support to existing programs and newly started organizations. “The Portage Foundation began to award grants in 2000,” noted Janice Simmon-Mortimer, Executive Director, “and since that …
The Portage Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Heidi Johnson as the organization’s new Community Engagement Manager. In this role, she will work to advance the Foundation’s mission to foster community relationships, promote philanthropy, and impact causes in Portage County.
Johnson brings a wealth of experience in community development and engagement, making her a strong fit for the Portage Foundation. With an extensive background working with and for various Portage County nonprofits, Ms. Johnson is poised to contribute to the Foundation’s efforts in supporting local community-focused organizations.
Honoring a Legacy of Grit, Determination, and Education on Giving Tuesday
The Portage Foundation Board of Trustees has named Janice Simmons-Mortimer as Executive Director to lead the community foundation. Simmons-Mortimer will transition from her role as Outreach Manager for the foundation to begin her new leadership role on September 1, 2023.
“As a resident of Portage County, I see the many great things that are currently happening to make our area stronger as well as the challenges still to overcome. I am excited to lead such a wonderful community foundation that has a legacy of service and a desire to positively impact our local area,” said Simmons-Mortimer.