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ometimes communities need a boost: They need a catalyst, a spark, to inspire innovators and organizations working for change. One such catalyst is The Sugar Bush Foundation, a supporting organization of The Ohio University Foundation. Since the start of the campaign, The Sugar Bush Foundation has contributed more than $1.1 million through The Ohio University Foundation to worthy projects that improve the quality of life in Appalachian Ohio. The Sugar Bush Foundation was envisioned as a new model for university-community partnerships, say its co-founders, Professors Mary Anne Flournoy, PHD ’95; her husband, Don; and their two children, Eli and Hylie. “We’ve been in Athens for 42 years and have been on our farm, Sugar Bush Farm, for 41 years,” says Don, a professor of media arts and studies in the Scripps College of Communication. “We wanted to give back in a way that benefits the university and the community.”
Sugar Bush partners have tackled projects such as redirecting large appliances from landfills, developing alternative energy from sunflower oil and bringing local crops into school cafeterias. In each instance, the foundation has provided not only funds but also connections: It links local nonprofit organizations with a need or idea with the Ohio University scholars, researchers and students who can progress the ideas or fill a need. In doing so, it presents critical hands-on learning opportunities for students. “The Sugar Bush Foundation supports projects where university students and scholars impact the community, and the community impacts the students and scholars,” Don says. “It provides the seed money to kick-start and the support to flesh out ideas.” An example of this dynamic in action is illustrated by the community members who recently partnered to develop Shagbark Seed & Mill, generating new economic opportunities while establishing a regional food network unlike any in the country.
spring 2014
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