Our Mission: Give Where You Live
Our Story
In the summer of 2021, Ross residents Martha and Dana Mehl had a bold vision: What if we created a community foundation dedicated to supporting the people of Ross for generations to come? For years, the Mehls had been deeply involved in their scholarship fund with the Hamilton Community Foundation (HCF). But they dreamed of something bigger—something that would uplift their hometown in a lasting and meaningful way.
With their characteristic determination and deep love for their community, Martha and Dana approached HCF with their idea. What began as a simple fact-finding conversation quickly grew into something extraordinary. With HCF's established reputation, deep expertise, and commitment to community impact, it became clear that an affiliate partnership was the perfect path forward. And so, the Ross Community Foundation (RCF) was born.
The RCF officially became the first affiliate of the Hamilton Community Foundation in 2022, giving it access to collective investments, administrative support, and decades of philanthropic expertise. But the real heart of the Foundation is its people—an all-volunteer board of passionate Ross residents and business owners who committed to a bold goal: raising $500,000 for the Ross Community Impact Fund by the end of their first year.
Fueled by the generosity of over 40 local families and the unwavering support of founding donors, the board not only met their $500,000 goal but surpassed it. This remarkable achievement wasn’t just about numbers; it was about building a foundation—literally and figuratively—for meaningful, lasting change in the Ross community.
Since its inception, the Ross Community Foundation has returned over $40,000 in total to local organizations serving the Ross community. These grants have been able to support a wide variety of needs in our community. Additionally, the Foundation has been able to serve our local nonprofits with continuing education opportunities and other essential needs.
Each year, our board continues to grow the Community Impact Fund through the Community Harvest Campaign, an annual fundraising effort dedicated to ensuring the Foundation can address the changing needs of the community.
The Ross Community Foundation's Community Impact Fund is a cornerstone of its mission. This unrestricted fund offers flexibility for the Foundation's board to address the most pressing needs of the community, ensuring every dollar is directed where it can make the greatest impact. Donors can also direct their gifts to specific passions by creating their own fund, whether it’s supporting local schools, addressing human needs, or funding cherished community projects. This flexibility allows every donor to see their values reflected in the Foundation’s work.
Today, the Ross Community Foundation stands as a testament to what’s possible when a community comes together with a shared vision and a generous spirit. It’s more than a fund—it’s a living, breathing embodiment of hope, connection, and possibility.
