West Virginia’s 10th Annual Spirit of Philanthropy Critical Impact Award Goes to the​Beckley Area Foundation

“This is a very special example of a legacy gift that will benefit generations of area residents, support the work of United way and serve as a lasting memorial to a husband and wife who have been role models as business leaders, parents, and concerned community citizens,” noted Landis who currently serves as Secretary of Philanthropy West Virginia.At the closing luncheon of the 2016 Philanthropy West Virginia Conference held in Huntington. WV, on Oct. 27th, the Beckley Area Foundation was presented with a Spirit of Philanthropy Award for Critical Impact. Paul Daugherty, President and CEO of Philanthropy WV, presented the award, a vase made by West Virginia artist and glass blower Alex Brand, to Dr. Tom Lemke representing the Gift Acceptance Committee of the BAF Board of Directors.
   The award was made in recognition of the transactions which resulted in the Foundation receiving a gift of the Riffe family home on Croft Street in Beckley while the donor received credit for a charitable donation equaling the assessed value; BAF selling the property to United Way of Southern West Virginia at an attractive price below market value; a permanent endowment being established which will forever honor the Riffe family while generating income each year to defray the costs of maintaining United Way’s office.
   Susan Landis, Executive Director of the Beckley Area Foundation, and Margaret Ann O’Neal Executive Director of United Way of Southern West Virginia, were also present at the award presentation.

Top: Kathleen Mcdermott of McKinley Carter Wealth Services (event sponsor), Margaret Ann O'Neal, Executive Director of the United Way of Southern WV, Dr. Tom Lemke representing the BAF Board of Directors, Susan Landis, BAF Executive Director, and Paul Daugharty, Preseident & CEO of Philanthropy WV.
Above:  A picture of the Riffe family home before being transformed into the United Way of Southern WV home office.

   Thus, a gift of a 100 year old home full of character, craftsmanship and family memories, has undergone some renovation and now serves as the administrative headquarters of an organization serving the interests of families in a multi-county area. An endowed fund honoring Tracy and Martha Jane Riffe will forever provide funds to help cover the costs of maintaining United Way’s office.
​ Other Spirit of Philanthropy Awards were presented to William “Bill” Hogan of Wheeling for volunteer leadership and to Diane Hinkle of the Tucker County Community Foundation for staff leadership.