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New Charitable Foundation Focuses on Local Needs
New Charitable Foundation Focuses on Local Needs
By Sebastian Langenberg
If you’ve ever wondered how Middleburg maintains its strong sense of community and supports its most vulnerable residents, you can thank the Middleburg Charitable Foundation (MCF). Much like the town itself, this foundation combines historic charm with modern purpose, working quietly but effectively to keep the community strong and vibrant.
“We wanted to build an organization that was really community driven,” explained Erik Scheps, president of the MCF “Our vision was to create something that would truly serve as a centerpiece for supporting our neighbors in need.”
An outgrowth of the town’s previous Health Center Advisory Board, the recently formed MCF represents a new chapter in Middleburg’s long history of taking care of its own. With initial funding of over $1 million, including $853,300 from the Health Center Fund, and a large donation from the Town, the foundation has positioned itself as a powerful force for good in the community.
What makes the MCF special isn’t just its financial resources – it’s the foundation’s deep understanding of local needs. The foundation maintains annual charitable distributions of on average $60,000 to local charities, focusing on four key areas that touch every corner of the community: health, education, personal safety, and food security.
MCF operates independently from the Town government but maintains strong local ties through its unique board structure. The board consists of three town residents, two at large who may live outside of town limits and two Town Council members, ensuring decisions reflect both local community needs and surrounding areas. It’s this careful balance of independence and connection that allows the MCF to be both responsive and responsible in its charitable giving.
“Middleburg is a big family,” said Scheps, “and the MCF embodies this spirit in its approach to charitable giving.”
The foundation also serves as a centralized channel for charitable funding, making it easier for local organizations to access support while ensuring donations make the maximum impact.
Looking toward the future, the MCF is focused on growth and accessibility. A strategic plan is being finalized, including an updated website, to make it easier for community members to learn about the foundation and how donate. They’ve also established professional partnerships with local financial and legal experts to ensure long-term sustainability. Wiseman and Associates manages the fund’s investments.
Want to be part of this community effort? The MCF welcomes community involvement and support. Anyone interested in learning more about grant opportunities or supporting the foundation’s mission, should visit the foundation’s website, MiddleburgCharitableFoundation.org.
As MCF continues to grow, it will always remain true to its core purpose: serving as a cornerstone of support for Middleburg’a most vulnerable members.
“The MCF stands as a testament to Middleburg’s commitment to taking care of its own – a modern expression of small-town values that have defined our community for generations,” Scheps said.
In a world where community ties often seem to be fraying, the Middleburg Charitable Foundation reminds us that here, at least, the bonds of community remain strong.
