Local Giving.
Lasting Impact.
Helping you make a difference in Wells County.
Hope Lights a Tree
In the spirit of the season, the Wells County Foundation invites you to take part in the annual Hope Lights a Tree program — a meaningful tradition that brings our community together to honor and remember loved ones.
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With each donation, an ornament is placed on the tree at the Angel of Hope Memorial Park as a symbol of love and remembrance. All are welcome to join us for the Remembrance and Tree Lighting Ceremony on December 6 at 7 p.m. in Bluffton.​
make an impact with year end giving
As the year comes to a close, it’s the perfect time to make a gift that will have a lasting impact in Wells County. When you give through the Wells County Foundation, your generosity goes further. Our stewardship, community knowledge, and long-term investment approach ensure that every dollar you give continues to support local needs for years to come.
why give through the wells county foundation?
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Your gift stays local. Every donation supports programs, nonprofits, and projects that directly benefit Wells County residents.
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You choose the impact. With a wide range of established funds—scholarships, community grants, youth programs, arts, health, and more—you can support the causes that matter most to you.
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Your generosity grows. Endowed gifts are invested for long-term sustainability, allowing your contribution to support the community year after year.
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We make giving simple. Whether you want to give now or plan for the future, our team can help you navigate the best giving options for your goals.
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Explore all available funds and find the one that aligns with your charitable interests here.
create a legacy of your own
If you’re interested in creating a new fund—whether in honor of a loved one, to support a specific cause, or to leave a personal legacy—we’re here to help. The Foundation team can walk you through the process and design a fund that reflects your values.
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Contact us at 260-824-8620 or email wellscountyfound@wellscountyfound.org to start the conversation.
other ways to make a difference
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Give in honor or memory of someone special.
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Make a year-end gift to support the Foundation’s work through our unrestricted funds, which allow us to respond to emerging community needs.
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Consider including the Foundation in your estate plans to ensure your generosity continues for generations.
This season, your gift can brighten our community—today and well into the future. Thank you for partnering with us to enhance the quality of life in Wells County and make our community a stronger, more vibrant place for all.
Each year, the Bette A. Erxleben Volunteer of the Year Award honors an individual who has made outstanding, sustained, and selfless contributions to the Wells County community. Recipients represent the very best of community spirit—those whose volunteer work has made a lasting impact in areas such as youth, education, human services, community development, health, or the environment.
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This year, we are proud to recognize Dave Goodwin as our 2025 Volunteer of the Year!
