Each year, the Sturgis Area Community Foundation’s Annual Meeting brings together the people who make our work possible: our donors, community partners, board members, and volunteers. It’s a special night to pause, say thank you, and celebrate the impact of philanthropy right here in St. Joseph County.

This year’s event kicked off with a warm welcome from Trustee Joe Hass, followed by fellow Trustees Kim Bontrager and Erin Melchi-Baker, who helped lead the approval of our committees and officers for the year ahead. Their thoughtful leadership set the stage for an evening filled with appreciation and connection.

As part of the evening’s tradition, the Foundation recognized outgoing board members whose leadership and dedication have left a lasting impact on their respective affiliate foundations. Each honoree was celebrated for their volunteer service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to creating positive change in their hometowns.

Constantine Area Community Foundation (CACF) – Presented by CACF President Dan Sorensen

• Kathy Messner
• Max Taverneir
• Austin Cooper

Three Rivers Area Community Foundation (TRACF) – Presented by CACF President Ron Buckhold

• Emily Daniels

White Pigeon Area Community Foundation (WPACF) – Presented by CACF President Eric Jones

• Sally Vellenga
• Michele Bush

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2025 John E. Oster Award for Excellence in Teaching to Jodie Scheid, a dedicated teacher at Sturgis Middle School. The award was presented by Dr. Art Ebert, Superintendent of Sturgis Public Schools, and Sarah Gardner, daughter of John E. Oster.

Established in memory of the late John E. Oster, a respected Sturgis attorney and advocate for education, this annual award honors educators who exemplify exceptional professional standards and a deep devotion to the Sturgis community. Scheid’s passion for teaching and her impact on students embody the very spirit of this meaningful recognition.

To close the evening, Executive Director Lindsay Aguilar reflected on an incredible year for the Foundation, marked by collaboration, growth, and generosity. From advancing the Foundation’s Childcare Initiative, to celebrating milestone anniversaries—50 years for the Three Rivers Area Community Foundation and 25 years for the White Pigeon Area Community Foundation—there was much to celebrate.

Perhaps most inspiring, the Foundation saw a remarkable year of giving, with total gifts exceeding $1.6 million across St. Joseph County.

The evening ended with gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose, a reminder that when we come together, our collective generosity makes extraordinary things possible.

The Sturgis Area Community Foundation is a $41M foundation committed to serving the charitable needs of our community and enriching the quality of life for all people in the Sturgis area. Through philanthropic services, strategic investments, and community leadership, the Sturgis Area Community Foundation helps people support the causes they care about now and for generations.

For more information on grants or donor services, email sacf@sturgisfoundation.org.