News & Stories

Each year, the Community Foundation recognizes several people from Frederick County who are selfless in their contributions of time, energy, and talents because they want to make a difference in the lives of others. We are pleased to announce the 2021 Wertheimer Fellows for Excellence in Volunteerism who will be honored on November 18, 2021, at our 35th Annual Report to the Community. The public may join in honoring these volunteers through the livestreamed event on November 18 at 7:15 p.m., by visiting www.FrederickCountyGives.org/NothingTopsPhilanthropy and clicking on the video box.

It’s fair to say that James D. “Jim” Summers is a “numbers guy.” As such, he has a unique understanding of the role The Community Foundation of Frederick County plays in preserving the area’s quality of life—today, tomorrow, and in perpetuity.

When Gordon Cooley and Teresa Warfield were growing up in Hyattstown and Damascus, Maryland, respectively, helping friends and neighbors in need was “just something the community did. There was very little fanfare,” said Mr. Cooley. “Either through the church or some other way, those who were in a position to help just did so—we took care of each other.”

For more than three decades, The Community Foundation of Frederick County has worked with donors to translate their charitable intentions into powerful acts of philanthropy. By connecting people who care with causes that matter, the Community Foundation has found a way to build community and enrich the quality of life in Frederick County—now and for generations to come.
Jack Leishear is one of the people who has reached out to the Community Foundation to help him leverage his resources to set in motion real and lasting change in Frederick County.

Harold and Elizabeth Kehne were longtime educators in Frederick County. They positively influenced countless students and believed in the power of education to help shape young people’s lives. A fund in their memory at The Community Foundation of Frederick County honors their legacy by providing support to students pursuing a career path similar to theirs.