In 2009, it inspired two generous Licking County donors to create a lasting form of support for students in the North Fork School District. Although they chose to remain anonymous, their Designated Agency funds have made a difference in the educational experience of thousands of young children.  

The Treble Clef Fund was established by a donor inspired by a sign at a local music store that read, “Teach a boy to blow a horn, and he won’t blow a safe.” The Fund supports music education programs and materials for students in grades K - 6. The “I Need” Principal’s Fund, established by the same family, takes its name from the way teachers approach Michelle Gorius, principal of Newton Elementary School, with requests for non-budgeted needs for students. Grants from each fund are split evenly between Newton and Utica Elementary schools in western Licking County.

North Fork’s Treasurer, Kellie Breehl, comments, “The generous gift of the Treble Clef and ‘I Need’ grants have been a boost to North Fork and Utica Elementary and their music programs.” The Treble Clef grant recently assisted with the purchase of instruments, technology and classroom equipment to help make the program an exciting place for children to learn and create music. The “I Need” grant funds have allowed the school to recognize students who have gone above and beyond their peers as Leaders of the Month, part of the Leader in Me initiative.   

Breehl states, “With continued support from the Licking County Foundation’s Treble Clef and ‘I Need’ grants, the district has the opportunity to provide students with a multitude of experiences that would not have been previously available to them.”