by Community Foundation of Fayette County | May 7, 2026 | CFFC News
It was another unforgettable evening at the Community Foundation of Fayette County’s 5th annual Gala of Giving ~ Catalyst for Change! We extend our gratitude to Fairchance Construction Company as Presenting Sponsor, to all 2026 sponsors, our 400 guests, and everyone who contributed donations, time, and talents for this extraordinary night.
“We were blown away by the generosity in the ballroom! An anonymous donor committed to match all donations during the event, dollar-for-dollar, highlighting the impact of giving back — together,” said CEO Jessica Hajek-Bates.
CFFC has awarded $175,000 in Catalyst for Change Grants from event proceeds, and another $100,000 will be awarded this summer to invest in projects that spark change and growth in Fayette County.
See photos from the event on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/cffayettepa
Save the date for the next Gala of Giving on April 3, 2027!
by Community Foundation of Fayette County | Feb 2, 2026 | CFFC News
The Community Foundation of Fayette County (CFFC) is accepting sponsorships, program booklet advertisements, auction item donations, and ticket reservations for the fifth annual Gala of Giving ~ Catalyst for Change on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at Seven Springs Mountain Resort. Fairchance Construction Company is the gala’s Presenting Sponsor. Proceeds will support initiatives that drive meaningful progress in Fayette County.
As guests are greeted, they will register for the silent auction’s mobile bidding and enjoy cocktail hour with an open bar. Mike Clark of WTAE Pittsburgh Action News 4 will once again serve as the master of ceremonies. A brief program will highlight CFFC’s efforts to inspire charitable giving, support nonprofits, and nurture positive community impact.
Guests will enjoy a delicious dinner followed by a live auction hosted by Tony Quarrick. Following dinner, Kendall Brothers Band will draw guests to the dance floor with live music. The silent auction will close at 9:30 p.m. with auction checkout at 10:00 p.m. The fun will continue at the after party in the Matterhorn Lounge, with live music from Levi Graft and late night snacks.
“We love turning this event into something truly memorable for our guests,” said Angela Braun, Gala of Giving Chair. “The enthusiasm and generosity of our guests support projects that ignite meaningful change in Fayette County. That energy is exactly what this event celebrates.”
The foundation has awarded $175,000 in Catalyst for Change Grants through event proceeds. An additional $100,000 will be awarded this summer.
“We are motivated by the possibilities ahead with additional support and partnership for the Catalyst for Change Grants. The foundation sees this as a big opportunity for growth and impact,” said Jessica Hajek-Bates, CFFC Chief Executive Officer.
Formal attire is requested for the event. Individual ticket sales will be available at a later date.
Please contact Trish Desvarro, Gala Event Manager, with any questions at desvarro@gmail.com or call the CFFC office at 724-437-8600.
by Community Foundation of Fayette County | Feb 2, 2026 | CFFC News
Community Foundation of Fayette County (CFFC) invites nonprofits to submit a Letter of Inquiry (LOI) for up to $100,000 in funding for a Fayette County project. Interested nonprofits must attend a mandatory 1-hour forum to understand the possibilities of the Catalyst for Change Grant.
This grant opportunity is provided through Gala of Giving event proceeds. The annual event raises money to invest in projects that will spark change and growth in Fayette County. So far, the foundation has awarded $175,000 in Catalyst for Change Grants.
“Our board of directors is driven by a shared belief in what’s possible when a community invests in bold ideas,” said Ron Gabriel, CFFC Board Chair. “The Catalyst for Change Grants are designed to spark that momentum, and we invite nonprofits to explore the updated criteria and bring forward visionary projects that can truly move our county forward.”
The foundation is looking for significant impact that will spark meaningful and measurable change, but the project is not required to reach across the entire county or involve collaboration. CFFC is especially inspired by projects that ignite economic opportunities and build lasting, sustainable solutions to community needs. Applicants are challenged to consider including matching funds for all or a portion of the amount requested.
Interested nonprofits must attend a 1-hour in-person forum at CFFC’s office (250 West Main Street, Uniontown, PA 15401) on one of the following dates: February 12 at 9:00 a.m.; February 18 at 3:00 p.m.; February 20 at 12:00 p.m. (No registration needed.) Nonprofits will submit an LOI through CFFC’s online grant portal by the deadline of March 15 at 5:00 p.m. The grant is designed for up to a one-year timeline, starting with the award in July. Nonprofits can submit for an existing project or a new project. More details about the selection process are listed on the “Nonprofits” page at www.cffayettepa.org.
“We encourage nonprofits to think beyond a one-time impact or a single project – we want them to dream boldly about Fayette County’s future and how their project will address community needs,” said Jessica Hajek-Bates, CFFC Chief Executive Officer.
Interested nonprofits can begin their LOI submission now. However, upon review of the submitted LOIs, only projects that attended one of the mandatory forums will be considered.
by Community Foundation of Fayette County | Jan 2, 2026 | CFFC News
We invite you to the Community Foundation of Fayette County’s annual Gala of Giving ~ Catalyst for Change on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at Seven Springs Mountain Resort! This fabulous event raises money for bigger and bolder funding projects in Fayette County. So far, the foundation has awarded $175,000 in Catalyst for Change Grants to invest in county-wide, collaborative projects that address a variety of community needs. These grant awards are possible through the generous support of our sponsors, attendees, and partners. Your continued support will help spark more positive change and growth!
Join in support through one of the many sponsorship opportunities.
Browse the event website to learn more.
Please direct questions to Trish Desvarro, Event Manager, at desvarro@gmail.com or 724-557-0820.
by Community Foundation of Fayette County | Jul 25, 2025 | CFFC News
The Community Foundation of Fayette County invites you to learn more about the ways we are building a stronger Fayette County and how you can get involved!
7.25 Mid Year Newsletter