Foundation Grants Over $8.2M

During the Richland County Foundation’s annual meeting, President & CEO Allie Watson reported that the Foundation granted $8,223,066 in 2025. Donors continue to be very generous, and gifts for the year totaled $5,057,567.

Foundation donors were most passionate about supporting education and youth with grants totaling $3,589,613. Other sectors receiving grants were community and economic development $2,234,733, arts and culture $1,167,923, health and human services $934,430, churches $175,425 and environment $120,942. To review the 2025 annual report, go to richlandcountyfoundation.org. 

Watson outlined the Foundation’s Downtown Forward Project, which is a transformational revitalization initiative made possible through the donation of 14 historic downtown Mansfield buildings from John and Mimi Fernyak.

The gift places approximately 180,000 square feet of property under community leadership and launches a $25 million redevelopment project in partnership with Windsor Companies, an Ohio-based development firm specializing in historic redevelopment and community-centered downtown revitalization. The phased project will restore historic buildings, introduce new housing, and activate commercial spaces in the heart of the city.

The project applied for federal and state tax credits. If those are approved in June, the project could begin in late summer.

“This is one of the most significant moments for downtown Mansfield in generations,” said Watson. “The Fernyak family’s extraordinary gift ensures these historic buildings remain community assets while creating new opportunities for residents, businesses, and investment. Downtown Forward represents long-term commitment, thoughtful growth, and belief in Mansfield’s future.”

During the business portion of the meeting, DJ Daniels, Crystal McMillen, and Nyasha Oden were approved as incoming Board of Trustees members. The following trustees will serve as officers this coming year: Chair Lee Tasseff, Chair Elect Dakota Durbin, Secretary Jack Stewart, and Treasurer DJ Daniels.

Jana Mulherin completed her nine-year term and was recognized for her dedication and service to the community.