HOPE Foundation Awards Grants from Marlin Thompson Fund

Left: The HOPE Foundation awarded a grant from the Dr. Marlin D. Thompson Fund to ACES Alternative School for Darke County students. Right: The Dr. Marlin D. Thompson Fund provided a community grant to Anthony Wayne Early Childhood Program to make upgrades to its playground equipment.

In a tribute to HOPE Foundation founder Dr. Marlin D. Thompson, the foundation created a memorial fund after his death in 2010. Donors have contributed over $43,000 to support annual grants to local non-profit organizations as well as scholarships. The grants reflect causes that were important to this inspiring leader who was passionate about education and community giving. The Thompson Fund recently awarded a grant to ACES Alternative School, located in downtown Greenville and a service of Council on Rural Services. ACES gives Darke County students the extra boost needed to graduate from high school.

“Without ACES, many of these kids may drop out of high school,” said coordinator Jeff Vaughn. “Now, they have a diploma and the outlook for their future completely changes.”

Dr. Marlin D. Thompson, founder of the
HOPE Foundation of Darke County.

The HOPE Foundation grant to ACES provided curriculum materials that were necessary but impossible to attain due to budget cuts.

The Thompson Fund awarded another grant to Anthony Wayne Early Childhood Program to make upgrades to its playground equipment.

“Gross motor development is essential for a child’s success,” said Roxann Leeper, Anthony Wayne director. “This equipment will fit the needs of our smaller and visually impaired students.”

The HOPE Foundation is pleased to add these two organizations to what will be a long line of recipients in years to come.

As Darke County’s community foundation, the HOPE Foundation receives, manages and distributes charitable gifts for the benefit of Darke County residents. For more information, visit HOPE’s website at www.hopedarkecounty.com, or call 548-4673.