Osborne Meese Academy

Who is Osborne Meese?

Osborne Meese is considered the founding father of the Richland County Foundation. Along with six other businessmen in 1945 he established the Richland County Foundation after handling the payments to indigent individuals in Richland County through the Scattergood Fund for years. Osborne Meese had an admirable business ethic, strong community ties, excellent leadership ability, and foresight for Richland County. The other founders include Robert B. Black, Scott F. Coffin, John H. Finefrock, George W. Stephens, Paul R. Tappan, and Norman L. Wolfe.

What is the Osborne Meese Academy?

The Osborne Meese Academy is a training program aimed at increasing the capacity of your nonprofit organization. The Osborne Meese Academy was established out of a need within the community to build capacity, serve as an informational resource and act as a catalyst to encourage stronger collaboration among nonprofit organizations.

How can my organization get involved?

Organizations may apply to become participants of The Osborne Meese Academy. In 2022-23, the Foundation will host The Fund Raising School which is part of Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Participants will receive their Certificate in Fund Raising Management (CFRM) through a four-course curriculum.

This is a 12-day commitment over a two-year period. All classes will be held at Mid Ohio Educational Service Center, 890 West Fourth Street, Mansfield.

Principles and Techniques of Fundraising - March 14-17, 2022

Development Annual Sustainability - September 21-22, 2022

Developing Major Gifts - March 14-16, 2023

Managing the Capital Campaign - September 19-21, 2023

What is the cost to participate?

The cost to participate is $1,000 per person, per year.

What are the expected outcomes of the program?

The goals of The Osborne Meese Academy are:

~Develop sustainable organizations to be ready to meet community needs
~Strengthen executive leaders and governing bodies
~Increase knowledge about and implementation of nonprofit governance and organizational effectiveness

For more information call 419-525-3020 or email Senior Community Investment Officer Allie Watson awatson@rcfoundation.org