Licking County Foundation Donor Profile: Buckeye Lake Region Community Foundation

"There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about." – Margaret Wheatley. During the uncertainty of the Buckeye Lake Dam Project, a group of nearly 300 area residents and stakeholders met at Lakewood High School. This led to creating a declaration that stated the community’s strengths, weaknesses and goals. Which led to the formation of the Buckeye Lake Region Corporation (BLRC), with representation of the governmental and civic associations throughout the tri-county Buckeye Lake Region. The BLRC created a donor advised fund at the Licking County Foundation to support the groups many initiatives; actively pursuing water quality, economic development, quality of life and recreational amenity projects throughout the region. They shared these thoughts on their efforts:

What do you want the community to know about the Buckeye Lake Region Corporation?

The BLRC is working to create opportunities for the communities. Growth is coming. It is inevitable: Buckeye Lake is only 30 minutes from Columbus and has easy freeway access. We must manage the growth of the area in a manner consistent with the values of the communities.

What has inspired you about our community?

The passion. The Buckeye Lake region is someplace special with a unique lifestyle that is worth nurturing and protecting. The residents and business owners are rightfully protective of it and willing to make extra effort to keep it special.

Anything else you haven't touched on but feel is important to share?

The BLRC has been a very successful voice for the Region. We have placed capital requests that have and will continue to fund projects to benefit everyone in the Region. However, the BLRC itself is funded by the generosity of businesses and private donors.