DONOR SPOTLIGHT

When Paula Eddy, the Executive Director of the Elk County Community Foundation for nearly 20 years, is asked about CAPSEA, the first thought that always comes to mind is just how dedicated the nonprofit and its entire staff is to its mission. According to Paula, “You can tell they genuinely care about the people they are helping.”

Every year the Elk County Community Foundation receives hundreds of applications for money requests from worthy organizations and community groups. The Foundation leans on donor advisors to help decide which ones are the most deserving and who is in need of their financial assistance. It was one of those donor advisors who approached Paula, requesting her support and suggesting that she learn more about this local nonprofit.

“I think it speaks volumes to have one of our advisors advocating for CAPSEA, because it means that they truly believe in the organization and its impact on our community. CAPSEA has always been known to ask only for what they truly need, so when they reach out for support, people respond.”

Over the last 10 years, the Elk Foundation has provided nearly $20,000 to CAPSEA to help provide: 

• housing and food to families staying in their safe house/shelter
• new air conditioning unit,
• training
• office furniture
• phone upgrades
• a new board table and chairs
• DSL installation
• and to support services like TIR (Trauma Incident Reduction) Counseling, which helps victims of trauma learn to heal.

“Sitting in meetings with the CAPSEA staff, you can sense the dedication in the room. They work diligently to provide a supportive and driven environment for staff, volunteers and the people they serve, making this organization worth every penny donated to them.”