The Scranton Area Community Foundation is proud to announce the launch of its 70th Anniversary Campaign, commemorating seven decades of dedicated service and impactful philanthropy in the Northeastern Pennsylvania region. Since its establishment in 1954, the Foundation has been at the forefront of fostering community development, supporting nonprofit organizations, and enhancing the quality of life for residents in Northeastern Pennsylvania. During this special time, the Foundation aims to celebrate the Foundation’s rich history while looking forward to a future of continued growth and community support.

To coincide with this milestone year and continue improving on the Foundation’s critical work, the Scranton Area Community Foundation is establishing a permanent home in Lackawanna County in 2024. The Foundation was generously gifted the building that houses the Century Club of Scranton on Jefferson Avenue, directly across the street from its current rented office location in Scranton. This gift will allow the Scranton Area Community Foundation to have a permanent home in Lackawanna County later this year and better serve the community through various on-site services for nonprofits, as well as the ability to convene the community to work on important solutions.

The Scranton Area Community Foundation will spend the next few months renovating, improving, and preserving the historic building. During this time, the Foundation seeks support from the community to help finalize this move and continue providing charitable support to the community. “Supporting our anniversary campaign will help us to uplift the communities we serve in Northeastern Pennsylvania and enable us to enact meaningful change across our region,” stated Laura Ducceschi, Scranton Area Community Foundation President and CEO.

“By joining our 70th-anniversary campaign, you help us reach our goal as we prepare to move into our new home, honor the Foundation’s legacy, and inspire continued philanthropic efforts in our region,” stated Ellen Burkey, Scranton Area Community Foundation Board Chair. “Every contribution makes a difference, and 100% of your donation stays local, supporting the needs of our renovations and our region’s greatest needs,” she added.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony and ‘Platinum Jubilee’ anniversary celebration event is planned for December 2024. This event will bring together donors, community partners, nonprofit leaders, and the community to reflect on the Foundation’s accomplishments and celebrate its future. Look for more information on the Platinum Jubilee and ribbon-cutting ceremony to come soon.

To support the Foundation’s transformative journey, visit 70.safdn.org to learn more.

The Scranton Area Community Foundation works to meet critical community needs and support local causes, programs, and organizations. From improving access to equitable transportation to transforming the lives of women, girls, and their families, building the capacity of nonprofit organizations, advancing various causes in animal welfare, and ensuring all residents have access to safe and healthy housing, the Scranton Area Community Foundation is dedicated to helping to improve the quality of life in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

“The Scranton Area Community Foundation was established as a community trust in 1954 by the Scranton Family. Their initial $1 million gift was the seed that has grown into a permanent vehicle for donors to accomplish their philanthropic goals while helping to support positive change in our community,” Ducceschi stated. “Today, ninety cents of every dollar spent at the Foundation goes directly to grants, scholarships, and programs in the communities we serve,” she added.

The Scranton Area Community Foundation offers a range of charitable funds, allowing donors to advance a cause, support an individual organization, provide flexible support for community needs, or recommend individual grants.

“Reaching this 70th-anniversary milestone is a testament to the unwavering support of our donors, our nonprofit partners’ dedication, and our community’s resilience,” said Ducceschi. “As we celebrate our 70th anniversary, we remain even more committed to driving positive change and creating a vibrant, inclusive community for all across Northeastern Pennsylvania,” she added. “And we do this all through the support of our generous community.” The Scranton Area Community Foundation invites everyone to participate in the celebration and the 70th Anniversary Campaign activities. Visit safdn.org for more information about upcoming events, grant opportunities, and how to get involved. Naming opportunities and special recognition opportunities exist. Multi-year pledges can also be accepted and are appreciated.

The Scranton Area Community Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Northeastern Pennsylvania through philanthropy, collaboration, and community leadership. Since 1954, the Foundation has provided over $50 million in grants and scholarships, supporting a wide range of programs and initiatives that address the community’s most pressing needs.