GREATEST GENERATION FUND ESTABLISHED AT

THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF

HERKIMER & ONEIDA COUNTIES, INC.

 

The Oneida County World War II Memorial Trip, Inc. has established the Greatest Generation Fund at The Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties, Inc. This fund will benefit not-for-profit organizations that support and serve the needs of World War II veterans as well as other United States military veterans who haveserved overseas in more recent conflicts.

 

The Greatest Generation Fund was created as an acorn fund, which means that it is still growing to meet The Foundation’s $10,000 minimum requirement for a permanent endowment. It was established with an initial gift of $9,748.33 and The Foundation is accepting contributions to build the fund so that grants from income may be awarded to not-for-profit organizations.

 

This fund was established by the committee of the Oneida County World War II Memorial Trip, Inc. The committee was established to replicate the success of the Herkimer County World War II memorial trips that occurred in 2004 and 2005. Through several fundraising efforts, the committee was able to take 425 WWII veterans to Washington, D.C. during four separate 3-day visits in 2007.  

 

In 2008, the committee brought the veterans together for a reunion so they could exchange photos and stories of the experience. Most living WWII veterans residing in Oneida County were able to participate in these all expense paid trips because of the committee’s hard work and dedication, and donations from individuals, families, and businesses.

 

Peggy O’Shea, president and CEO of The Foundation said, “We are honored that the committee chose to establish this fund at The Community Foundation. Veterans have selflessly protected our country, and this fund provides us all with the opportunity to honor and support the brave men and women who have upheld the honorable standards set by ‘The Greatest Generation.’ In the past few years, The Foundation financially supported these trips, and we now look forward to giving back to those who have served through this fund, by making grants to not-for-profits that serve their needs.”