The family of Sean Swan-Leuze, in recognition of his retirement after 29 years as an educator, has established the Sean Swan-Leuze Scholarship Fund to support graduating seniors from Southwestern Central School.

The Chautauqua Region Community Foundation is pleased to announce that Pierre Chagnon has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the John D. Hamilton Community Service Award. A celebration honoring Chagnon’s commitment to community service will be held on Friday, September 18, 2026.

The Women's Giving Circle (WGC) of Chautauqua County celebrated another milestone of collective giving at its 2026 Annual Meeting, awarding a total of $75,000 to programs addressing childcare access, availability, and support for families throughout the region.

For more than 80 years, Jamestown High School’s 100 Member Club has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to supporting Jamestown High School students through scholarships and educational enhancements. Today, that legacy is poised to continue for generations to come through a partnership with CRCF.

CRCF is once again inviting residents throughout Chautauqua County to come together in support of local nonprofits during Give Big CHQ, the region’s annual 24-hour online day of giving.

Through a generous estate gift to the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, the Diane L. Benson Memorial Scholarship has been established to support future educators pursuing careers in English education.

CRCF recently approved a grant from the Fund for the Region to support the Chautauqua County Humane Society’s $7 million capital campaign.

Chautauqua Region Community Foundation and Community Heart & Soul have announced a new partnership to strengthen communities across the Chautauqua Region by expanding access to a proven, resident-driven approach to community engagement. 

The Conewango Valley Kennel Club has established the Conewango Valley Kennel Club Scholarship to support local students as a way to give back and build a future workforce.  

The Chautauqua Region Community Foundation and the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation are pleased to announce that Rural Philanthropy Fellows have been added to their teams through a unique partnership with the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation.

CRCF has more than doubled the number of endowed Donor Advised Funds in the last 5 years. The Funds offer flexibility, tax advantages, and opportunity for the donor to remain hands on.

For professional advisors, client retention is most vulnerable during generational transitions. Nationally, fewer than 20% of heirs continue working with their parents’ advisor after inheriting assets. Philanthropy offers one of the most natural and meaningful entry points. Conversations about giving invite discussions about values, legacy, and shared purpose, while strengthening the advisor’s role as a trusted guide. 

One of the most powerful tools for professional advisor clients age 70½ and older is the Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD). QCDs allow eligible clients to direct IRA distributions to charity.

The Chautauqua Region Community Foundation has announced the establishment of the Ranger Relief Fund, created by a group of active and retired volunteers from the fire service across Chautauqua County.

The Bemus Point Library Board of Directors is proud to announce the creation of the Bemus Point Library Fund, an endowment fund established at the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation to ensure the long-term strength and sustainability of the library.

The second annual Jeep Jam and Ride for Randy event brought together community members, riders, and supporters on August 17, 2025, for a day of fun, remembrance, and giving back — all in support of local charitable causes.

The life and legacy of Michelle Rogene Johnson-Anderson, a lifelong nurse, educator, and mentor, will continue to impact future generations of healthcare professionals through a newly established memorial scholarship.

The family and friends of the late Andy Field recently established the Andy Field Memorial Fund to honor Andy's legacy and support the organizations and causes that were meaningful to him throughout his life.

The Chautauqua Region Community Foundation is pleased to announce that Vince Horrigan has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the John D. Hamilton Community Service Award. A celebration event is scheduled for September 19 at the Roger Tory Peterson Institute.

The Community Support Group of Southwestern NY (CSGSWNY) is delighted to announce a pivotal moment in their mission to serve local needs, marked by the upcoming launch of Willow Creek Thrifty Treasures, a new mission-based thrift store in Clymer.