Robert G. and Melva Campbell Riley Fund

After celebrating 51 years of marriage, Bob and Melva Riley discovered the challenge of selecting meaningful gifts for each other. The task became even more daunting when Melva faced hospitalization in the months leading up to Christmas in 2006, preventing them from engaging in the usual shopping for thoughtful presents. It was during this time that Bob came across the inception of the Acorn Fund program offered by the Community Foundation.

The Acorn Fund program provides a straightforward and adaptable method for individuals and families to establish an endowment fund. Bob and Melva soon realized that they could initiate their own Acorn Fund with a minimum of $1,000, with the potential to grow it into a more substantial and permanent fund in the future. Bob expressed, “We decided it seemed an ideal means to provide gifts to each other and for the community we love.”

In no time, the Rileys successfully expanded their fund into a full endowment. The grants generated from their fund now contribute to supporting charitable needs and opportunities across the region. Their contribution stands as a lasting testament to a love-filled gift that continues to flourish.