2024/25 Impact Report

BRIDGE TO

24 25 Opportunity

Unofficial hybrid version

I M PACT R E PO RT

contents

Guiding Principle

1

Executive Director Letter

2

High Foundation Board of Trustees

High Milestones

3

High Foundation Strategic Framework

4

High Impact Portfolio

6

Housing Environment

Opportunity Grants

10

Aaron’s Acres Chestnut Housing Stroud Water Research Center YWCA Lancaster

Equity Statement

18

2025 Essence of Humanity Awards

19

2025 High Coworker Scholarship

20

High Coworkers in Action

22

Stronger Together

23

High Center: 30th Anniversary

24

High Foundation Impact Snapshots

26

2024–2025 Opportunity Grantees

28

GUIDING PRINCIPLE:

“We are on this earth for a purpose that is larger than our own self-interests, and we must strive to make the world a better place.”

- S. Dale High

2024/2025 Impact Report | 1

AS I REFLECT ON THE PAST YEAR, I am truly honored to lead this organization into the future—creating and supporting meaningful, lasting impact in the communities where the High companies provide economic investment and employment. I am also forever grateful to our benefactor, S. Dale High, who through his vision and generosity has built a Bridge to Opportunity for countless individuals and families, leaving a legacy of business for good and exemplifying the true meaning of servant leadership.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES S. Dale High Chairman of the Board

Guided by our belief that every individual deserves safe, affordable housing and a healthy environment in which to thrive, we are excited to share new bold initiatives launched through our High Impact Portfolio in housing and the environment (pages 6–9). Partners for Environmental Stewardship was created to lead the development of a new Environmental Center on the Sunnyside Peninsula, fostering

Suzanne M. High Vice Chair Thomas T. Baldrige Vice Chair Steven D. High

collaboration and innovation to address the ecological issues facing our region while restoring and celebrating the natural resources that sustain us. At the same time, we are advancing a comprehensive housing strategy that includes significant grantmaking across the housing spectrum, convening partners to tackle systemic barriers, and soon, signature projects that will directly expand the supply of affordable homes for working families.

Gene P. Otto

Meanwhile, our Opportunity Grants Portfolio continues to empower

Vanessa E. Philbert

ways. From expanding access to quality education and affordable

Janice L. Snyder

environment, these grantees are creating meaningful change.

Jordan S. Steffy

human services, and historic preservation serve to strengthen our

Carl J. Strikwerda

are honored to invest in their missions and inspired by the impact

organizations whose work is transforming communities in many housing to preserving our region’s rich cultural heritage and natural Their efforts in community development, the arts, health and communities and enhance the quality of life for our neighbors. We they make every day.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Your partnership, passion, and perseverance continue to inspire us. Together, we are building a more just, sustainable, and hopeful future for all.

With gratitude,

Robin D. Stauffer Executive Director

2 | High Foundation

High Milestones 1931

1963

1977

1980

1983

High Welding Company is born on Lemon Street in Lancaster City.

S. Dale High joins the family business.

S. Dale High begins leading High Industries Inc. as Chairman of the Board, President & CEO. — Old Town in Lancaster City is saved from destruction and revitalized by High organization and other investors.

High Foundation is formed.

High Foundation establishes college scholarship program for coworkers’ high school students.

1990

1995

2001

2009

2017

High Foundation is a major donor of the High Library at Elizabethtown College.

S. Dale High is Founder of the High Center for Family Business at Elizabethtown College.

High Foundation establishes the Essence of Humanity Award to celebrate individuals who exemplify the human spirit.

— The High family purchases 27 West Lemon Street in the City of Lancaster, the birthplace of High Welding Co.

High companies partner in the development and opening of Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square Hotel and Convention Center.

High Foundation becomes Presenting Sponsor of Lancaster County Community Foundation’s ExtraGive.

— S. Dale High Leadership Center opens, home to High Family Office and High Foundation.

2021

2022

2023

2024

2025

High Foundation establishes significant multi-million dollar Donor Advised Fund with Lancaster County Community Foundation.

S. Dale High transfers ownership of High Industries Inc. to High Foundation.

S. Dale High transfers ownership of High Real Estate Group LLC to High Foundation.

High Foundation announces Environmental Sustainability and Affordable Housing as High Impact Areas.

High Foundation announces role as visionary funder of newly established nonprofit, Partners for Environmental Stewardship, and plans to build a world-class Environmental Center.

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High Foundation Strategic Framework Our Mission With a heart of service and a spirit of collaboration, High Foundation builds bridges to opportunity for individuals, organizations, and communities, striving for an equitable world of beauty, prosperity, and peace.

HIGH COMPANIES

INVESTMENT IN

PROFITS GO TO

communities where

High Foundation

High operates

Our Values Servant Leadership

Boldness

Stewardship

4 | High Foundation

Equity

Optimism

How We Give HIGH IMPACT PORTFOLIO In pursuit of systemic change, High Foundation harnesses the collective power of its resources and partners to address issues that impact future generations. Current High Impact focus areas include restoring, conserving, and celebrating our natural environment and addressing the need for equitable and affordable housing.

OPPORTUNITY GRANTS PORTFOLIO In response to evolving community needs, High Foundation invests in economic vibrancy, community vitality, and individual and social well-being through grantmaking where High companies operate.

PILLARS OF

INVESTMENT 2025 Investment Total: $

ECONOMIC VIBRANCY $

$

Education

960,000 Housing

4,827,000

COMMUNITY VITALITY Community Development

INDIVIDUAL & SOCIAL WELL-BEING

Arts, Culture & Historic Preservation

Health & Human Services

1,949,833

$

$

$ TOTAL:

5,787,000

$

11,856,628

865,000

$

Environment

1,305,000 TOTAL:

1,949,795 TOTAL:

1,949,795

$

4,119,833

$

2024/2025 Impact Report | 5

High Impact Portfolio Launched in tandem with our 2024-2026 Strategic Plan,

the High Impact Portfolio is

our boldest commitment yet to creating transformational

change in Lancaster County.

With an annual investment

of $5-6 million, the portfolio

focuses on the environment

and affordable housing, two

critical issues where we believe

sustained, visionary investment can lead to lasting impact.

We’re using a wide range of strategies to drive systemic

change, including signature

projects, grants, convenings, and impact investments— all while working in close

partnership with public, private, and nonprofit stakeholders.

The High Impact Portfolio is not simply about funding;

it’s about aligning resources,

partnerships, and leadership to make a measurable difference.

6 | High Foundation

Deliberative Workshops provide tools, strategies, and partnerships to help municipal leaders address Lancaster’s housing needs.

Affordable Housing Affordable housing was a natural choice for one of our first High Impact Areas. The need is urgent, and housing stability delivers far-reaching benefits— from improving community health and well-being to strengthening economic vitality. That’s why we’re using every tool at our disposal to invest across the housing spectrum. From homelessness and workforce housing to zoning reform and capacity building, we are committed to driving innovation and impact.

Our Strategy to Date GRANTMAKING:

In 2024–2025, High Foundation supported more than 25 affordable housing organizations—strengthening their capacity to provide emergency shelter, expand affordable housing options, and plan strategically for the future.

CONVENING: Deliberative Workshops In 2024, High Foundation partnered with Hourglass and Franklin & Marshall College’s Center for Politics and Public Affairs to host two deliberative workshops engaging Lancaster County’s municipal officials on affordable housing. With participation from 25 of the county’s municipalities, the workshops identified zoning reform and public education as two of the most promising strategies to address local housing challenges. Survey results showed increased recognition of housing as a critical issue and a growing belief that local governments can take meaningful action. These workshops are part of our broader effort to equip and empower municipal leaders with tools, strategies, and partnerships to help address Lancaster’s housing needs.

Read the full report: highfoundation.org/impact

SIGNATURE PROJECTS (COMING SOON):

High Foundation is preparing to launch major community investments that will expand the supply of affordable rental housing. These efforts will deliver meaningful impact for working families in Lancaster County. Stay tuned for the full announcement.

High Foundation partnered with Franklin & Marshall College and Hourglass to convene municipal leaders around solutions to housing affordability in our community.

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Caring for the Environment High Foundation identified the environment as a High Impact Area because Lancaster County is both rich in natural assets and facing urgent challenges. With more than 1,400 miles of streams, fertile soils, and exceptional environmental organizations, our community has the tools to lead. Yet over half of our streams are impaired and air quality ranks among the worst in the nation. By investing deeply and partnering with key stakeholders, we are committed to stewarding these resources for generations to come.

Advancing a Bold Vision for Lancaster’s Riverfront High Foundation has committed $10 million to help realize a once-ina-generation opportunity: the creation of a world-class Environmental Center on Sunnyside Peninsula in Lancaster City. Led by the nonprofit Partners for Environmental Stewardship, this visionary project will serve as a regional hub for environmental education, community science, workforce

An environmental center is coming to Sunnyside Peninsula in the City of Lancaster—an important piece of urban wildlife habitat surrounded by the Conestoga River.

development, and collaborative action on sustainability and conservation.

Designed to meet the highest standards of environmental performance, the center will be located on a new 70-acre urban nature preserve, created in partnership with the City of Lancaster. Together, the Environmental Center and preserve will transform an underutilized riverfront site into a vibrant public space that protects habitat, reconnects residents with nature, and inspires the next generation of environmental leaders.

The Environmental Center will be home to mission-driven anchor organizations providing on-site education, programming, and scientific expertise. These partners include: • A lliance for the Chesapeake Bay

• RegenAll

• C hesapeake Bay Foundation

• Stroud Water Research Center

• L ancaster Clean Water Partners • L ancaster Conservancy

• Water Science Institute

With design and planning now underway, the Environmental Center is projected to break ground in 2027.

8 | High Foundation

Photo by Michelle Johnsen, courtesty of Lancaster Conservancy

Photo courtesy of Stroud Water Research Center

Photo courtesy of Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay

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Building Bridges through Opportunity Grants High Foundation is proud to partner with organizations leaving a lasting impact on the communities where High companies operate. On the following pages, we are pleased to highlight the hard work of several 2024/2025 grantees.

Aaron’s Acres Camp Program, one of the organization’s core offerings, is held each summer for children and young adults, ages 5 to 21.

10 | High Foundation

OPPORTUNITY GRANTS

Aaron’s Acres Aaron’s Acres invites children, young adults, and adults with disabilities into a life of possibility. Through therapeutic and recreational opportunities, participants socialize, strengthen communication skills, and engage in community service projects—all of which build self-confidence and boost self-esteem.

“Families will describe that so often throughout the year, they don’t see their kids happy and smiling,” said Risa Paskoff, Executive Director of Aaron’s Acres. ”A parent will say, on the first day of camp for a returning camper, they’re up in the morning wearing their yellow t-shirt at 6am at the foot of the parent’s bed.”

Since its founding in 1998, Aaron’s Acres has never turned anyone away from programming because of a disability. However, once a participant turned 21, they aged out of established programs and found themselves missing the connections, friendships, and socialization they found at Aaron’s Acres.

At the heart of each program is a dedication to inclusivity and safety. With funding from High Foundation, the organization has expanded its programming and created new opportunities for people ages five to 40 to receive yearround support, as well as additional emotional, recreational, and educational support for the participants’ families. From summer camps

“I believe that every child, regardless of ability and disability, should have the same type of experience that we all have—being able to be with their peers, engaging in meaningful activities, and having fun.”

– Risa Paskoff Executive Director of Aaron’s Acres “Aarons Acres is all about possibilities beyond disabilities. This opportunity that High is giving us is allowing families to feel, ‘Oh, we are still part of a community,” Paskoff said.

and school year programming to adult sports leagues and cooking classes, Aaron’s Acres is establishing a network that uplifts, encourages, and supports caretakers.

Scan here to watch the video

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OPPORTUNITY GRANTS

Chestnut Housing Driven by the belief that housing is a human right, Chestnut Housing works toward a future where everyone has the opportunity to live in a safe, beautiful, and affordable home.

Over a decade ago, the organization was established by a local Mennonite church and continues to maintain strong ties with neighboring congregations. As cost of living increases and rent prices rise, Chestnut Housing invites communities of faith and residents of Lancaster City to seek out tangible

Chad Martin, Executive Director of Chestnut Housing

solutions to the issue of affordable housing.

“We can’t build enough housing fast enough,” said Chad Martin, Executive Director of Chestnut Housing. “What drives me today is there is still an incredible, deep, persistent need for affordable housing in our community.”

Through a network of referral partners like Milagro House, Tenfold, and Community Action Partnership of Lancaster County, the organization transforms vacant buildings into apartments for mothers and children escaping domestic violence, people experiencing homelessness, and families looking for a fresh start.

When a new property is purchased, Chestnut Housing coordinates with local construction companies, architects, and property managers to rehabilitate the building. By leveraging volunteer

“Meeting our community’s significant housing challenges requires everyone doing their part,” Martin said.

“I want a community where everybody has a place to live that they can afford and feel at home in. A community where they can thrive and live a healthy, rewarding life. Everybody deserves that.

Everybody should have that.”

– Chad Martin Executive Director of Chestnut Housing

labor and working closely with builders to keep construction costs lean, Chestnut Housing provides high-quality apartments below market rate.

With support from High Foundation, Chestnut Housing will soon complete construction of eight new affordable apartments in Lancaster City.

12 | High Foundation

Scan here to watch the video

2024/2025 Impact Report | 13

Stroud Water Research Center partners with landowners, including Lancaster’s Plain community, to plant trees along streamside properties.

14 | High Foundation

OPPORTUNITY GRANTS

Stroud Water Research Center Since 1967, Stroud Water Research Center has been laser-focused on the science of rivers and streams. In 2024, the organization planted 10,000 trees across Lancaster County and engaged 300 students and educators in watershed education programming and professional development.

In March 2025, using funding from High Foundation, the organization contacted 4,500 streamside landowners in Lancaster County, inviting participation in a riparian forest buffer program—an intentional effort to plant trees, shrubs, and perennial plants along a body of water to protect the waterway and enhance its ability to flourish.

“Stroud Water Research Center is grateful for the support of

These efforts are part of Stroud Water Research

High Foundation to help us

Center’s commitment to advancing knowledge

provide valuable outreach for landowners and farmers throughout Lancaster County in freshwater stewardship.”

– Jessica Provinski Director of Development at Stroud Water Research Center

and stewardship of freshwater systems through global research, education, and watershed restoration. So few organizations study these critical systems and how to protect them, with a collaborative approach that accounts for decades of environmental changes. By producing trusted science needed for successful stream and river restoration, Stroud Water Research Center fosters people’s passion for water’s impact in their lives.

“This outreach is essential for the Stroud Center to help meet the ambitious goals of Lancaster County’s Clean Water Action Plan to plant 6,000 acres of streamside forest,” said Provinski.

Scan here to watch the video

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OPPORTUNITY GRANTS

YWCA Lancaster YWCA Lancaster dedicates itself to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

“At YWCA Lancaster, our mission is more than just words—it’s a deep commitment,” said Stacie Blake, CEO of YWCA Lancaster. “We can’t do this work alone. It takes the support of dedicated partners who share our vision, and High Foundation has been one of those steadfast allies from the very beginning.”

To fulfill its mission, the organization engaged

A rendering of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Counseling Center and New Choices Career Development Program

in a historic renovation and expansion project at its Lancaster City location. The organization will increase its capacity by 42% with 16 new living units featuring suite-style rooms.

“When we first imagined the YForward initiative, High Foundation didn’t just support us—they believed in us.”

– Stacie Blake CEO of YWCA Lancaster “Their early investment provided the essential funding needed to develop the plans for this historic rehabilitation project. That belief laid the

concludes, 16 new tenants will move into safe, affordable housing. Additionally, an ADAaccessible elevator will be installed and the Sexual Assault Prevention and Counseling Center and New Choices Career Development Program will move to a new space, fully outfitted with private offices, community rooms, secure waiting areas, and a discrete client entrance.

“The impact of High Foundation’s support reaches far beyond bricks and mortar—it’s about restoring hope, strengthening our community, and ensuring that YWCA Lancaster remains a source of empowerment for generations to come,” Blake said. “Together, we are creating change.”

foundation—literally and figuratively—for what has now become a truly transformative effort for YWCA Lancaster and the entire community,” Blake said.

YForward is an effort to ensure everyone has access to stable housing, essential services, and economic opportunity. After construction

16 | High Foundation

Scan here to watch the video

The YWCA’s Child Enrichment Center offers hands-on activities in a nurturing environment, designed to support intellectual, physical, and emotional growth.

Opportunity Grants photography by Jenny Foster

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We Work for Equity

A world in which all people have access to opportunity is the world

we want to help build. Our investments and initiatives further the goal of embracing diversity, promoting mutual respect, and broadening opportunity for everyone.

H igh Foundation is committed to leading while learning what it means

to be a diverse, equitable, and inclusive organization. While this is an

ongoing and evolving process, we’re proud of the strides we’ve made and will continue to work toward a more equitable future for all.

18 | High Foundation

2025 ESSENCE OF HUMANITY AWARD

Honoring Those Who Inspire the Best in All of Us Each year, High Foundation recognizes people in our community who give of

themselves selflessly—role models of

the human spirit who work tirelessly to

DERRICK BURCH is driven by his lived experiences, exhibiting a lifelong commitment to making a positive impact through his work as Director of Development and Community Engagement at The Mix, grant writing consultancy, catering, and involvement with various organizations. Derrick’s story is one of resilience, compassion, and unwavering commitment to bettering his community.

overcome adversity and effect positive

change. Regardless of accolades, opinions, or obstacles, they demonstrate the highest human qualities, moving beyond personal circumstances to make life better for

others. Since 2001, the Essence of Humanity Award has elevated the stories of these individuals who exemplify the human

spirit, beyond the requirements of their

formal work lives, and demonstrate what it means to be a compassionate citizen.

At the Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast on January 20, 2025, the Essence of Humanity Award was presented to Derrick Burch and Ron Martin, who have dedicated their lives to service, displaying characteristics of courage, love, strength, determination, and persistence. We congratulate Derrick and Ron for their outstanding service to others.

RON MARTIN spent four decades as an anchor and reporter at WGAL, the NBC affiliate serving the Susquehanna Valley. Ron’s 40-year career was groundbreaking, making history as the first person of color to anchor at WGAL and becoming a trusted source, delivering the news that mattered to the people of the Susquehanna Valley. He also took others under his wing, mentored them, and was a champion for them.

2024/2025 Impact Report | 19

2025 HIGH COWORKER SCHOLARSHIP

Recognizing and Honoring Academic Excellence

In 1982, to commemorate the founding of the High companies

by Sanford H. High fifty years before, High Foundation inaugurated a scholarship program for the benefit of children of coworkers.

This is a competitive program created to recognize and honor academic excellence and to assist High coworkers in meeting the costs of sending children to colleges of their choice.

20 | High Foundation

2025 Scholarship award winners shown with High Foundation Board and Committee members.

Meet the 2025 High Foundation scholarship recipients:

Matthew Crider, Jr. alongside his mother Stacey Crider and father Matthew Crider, Leadperson Mechanic with High Associates Ltd.

Lilian Mahonski alongside her mother Emily Mahonski and father Matthew Mahonski, Vice President, Managing Director of High Transit LLC

MATTHEW CRIDER, JR. is the son

his love for computer science

of Matthew Crider, Leadperson –

through his programming classes

Mechanic with High Associates Ltd.’s

where his teacher said Matthew is

Property Services Team, who joined

a “model student who is extremely

High in 2002. Matthew, a Donegal

motivated and will never settle for

High School graduate, is a member

satisfaction; he is always aiming

of the National Honor Society,

for outstanding.” Matthew plans

was a varsity starter and team

to pursue a degree in computer

captain of the football team, and

science from Penn State University.

a dedicated member of the track and field team. Matthew discovered

LILIAN MAHONSKI is the daughter of

club and engaged in Springboro

Matthew Mahonski, Vice President,

Young Life and in Student Council.

Managing Director of High Transit

Her commitment to service includes

LLC, who joined High in 2011. Lilian

volunteering with the Adventure

graduated from Springboro High

Crew Fundraiser and tutoring fellow

School where she was a four-year

students. Inspired by her close

member of the swim team, served

relationship with her grandfather

as team captain her senior year,

who became disabled when Lily

and competed for a nationally

was seven years old, Lily plans to

ranked swim club team. Lily was

pursue a degree in biomedical

a member of the National Honor

engineering from Rose-Hilman

Society and actively involved in the

Institute of Technology, where she

ski and snowboard club. She was a

plans to also compete in swimming.

founding member of the pickleball

Kaycee Sontheimer alongside her mother Tennille Sontheimer, father Neil Sontheimer; Maintenance Supervisor with High Steel Structures LLC, and brother Bryce Sontheimer

KAYCEE SONTHEIMER is the daughter

not only performs but volunteers

of Neil Sontheimer, Maintenance

as a teacher-in-training and

Supervisor with High Steel Structures

supports Princess Camp for younger

LLC in Williamsport, PA, who joined

dancers. One of Kaycee’s most

High in 2000. Kaycee graduated

defining experiences has been

from Hughesville High School

training her horse, Wiki—a journey

where she was an officer in student

that took more than two years

council, a member of the National

of perseverance, patience, and

Honor Society, and participated

grit. With a passion for animals,

in Scholastic Scrimmage, ski club,

community, and lifelong learning,

and the Constitutional Convention.

Kaycee plans to pursue a degree in

Kaycee is also a dedicated dancer

animal science and pre-veterinary

at LKW Dance Center where she

medicine from Penn State University.

2024/2025 Impact Report | 21

High Coworkers in Action

With nearly 300 hours of volunteer time invested in the community this year, we are proud of the significant contributions High coworkers have made across Lancaster County.

Bridgemania at Lancaster Science Factory Since 2016, High Steel Structures has

diaphragm bolting, and welding using

held a STEM summer camp at the

the Flux-Cored Welding process.

Lancaster Science Factory. High Steel

Thanks to our volunteers, these future

engineers introduced 13 campers

engineers walked away with new skills,

to the basics of bridge engineering,

unforgettable experiences, and a

ending the week-long camp with a

deeper understanding of how bridges

tour of High Steel Structure’s steel

connect our world.

fabrication facility. A group of eight fabricators guided the campers as they experienced weld testing,

15 volunteers 100 volunteer hours

Lancaster County Food Hub High companies’ United Way Committee

greater mission of helping neighbors

spent the day at Lancaster County Food

thrive by sharing critical resources,

Hub, the largest direct-to-client food

including food, clothing, and

and clothing distributor in the county. By

connection to supportive services.

sorting donated food, stocking shelves, and sorting and folding clothes, our volunteers contributed to Food Hub’s

6 volunteers 12 volunteer hours

Lancaster Lebanon Habitat for Humanity High Construction Company hosted its 15th Annual Charity Golf Outing at the Hershey Country Club in support of Lancaster Lebanon Habitat for Humanity.

Thanks to the support of industry partners, sponsors, and participants, the event raised a record-breaking $63,267 for the organization.

22 | High Foundation

20 volunteers 160 volunteer hours $530,000+ raised since 2008

Stronger Together In response to evolving community

needs, High Foundation partners with community initiatives that align with our values and invest in economic vibrancy, community vitality, and individual and social well-being.

We are honored to help support and amplify their good work.

Photograph by Michelle Johnsen, courtesty of Lancaster Conservancy

Lancaster Water Week celebrates the 1,400 miles of streams and rivers in Lancaster County that are a source of drinking water, drive economic and agricultural growth, and are an escape into nature. Unfortunately, over 75% of these waterways are impaired. In keeping with our desire to leave Lancaster

“ We strive to be catalytic in our approach to funding, seeking the best possible outcomes for the organizations we work with and support.”

– Robin Stauffer

Executive Director, High Foundation

better than we found it, High Foundation is proud to be the Presenting Sponsor of this event.

Since 2012, High Foundation has supported the ExtraGive, Lancaster County Community Foundation’s signature event.

By investing in causes they care about, community members have raised over $110 million for more than 500 organizations across Lancaster. As a Presenting Sponsor, High Foundation is honored to support a day of giving that works to alleviate poverty, promote environmental preservation, empower the next generation, and ensure a flourishing future for Lancaster County.

2024/2025 Impact Report | 23

For 30 years, The High Center has championed family business owners, providing the resources and support to encourage long-term sustainability.

Former President George W. Bush addressed community leaders at The High Center Business Forum in April 2025.

24 | High Foundation

Executive Peer Groups include 12–15 High Center Members committed to supporting each other, sharing best practices, and problem-solving in a confidential, discussion-based environment.

Celebrating 30 Years of The High Center Founded by S. Dale High in 1995 at his alma

than 200 executives in family-owned and privately

mater, The High Center at Elizabethtown

held businesses that power the Commonwealth’s

College was created to support family

economy. What began as an effort to support

and privately held businesses as they

business leaders has expanded to empower the

prepare for leadership transitions.

nonprofit sector as well, offering peer groups for

“I noticed that so many privately held companies had been in business for a number of years.

nonprofit leaders and focusing its services on organizational and leadership development.

Transition was absolutely mandatory and it

“There’s just so many places we want to go

wasn’t being prepared for.” Dale said. “I thought

and so many people to help and lives to

Elizabethtown College would be an ideal base

change by bringing the services of The High

for this because Elizabethtown was well known

Center to a larger region,” said Michael Mitchell,

for their business acumen, and so many of

Executive Director of The High Center.

their business graduates were moving into privately held companies in the region.”

This endeavor is among the many ways High Foundation aims to lead transformative change

The High Center was not established by

by example, inspiring leaders to give the best

consultants, but by family business people who

of what they offer to their communities.

were willing to turn their lived experiences into a shared resource. Three decades later, The High

“The High Center has well

Center has grown to become one of the nation’s

exceeded any expectations I

largest centers devoted to equipping family and privately held businesses with leadership

would of have had for it 30

development resources, executive peer groups,

years ago when it began and I

best practices in education, and legacy planning.

“Every time we have a peer group meeting,

attribute that to so many of the

there’s an impact on our business,” said Dan

leaders that have really taken

Sahd, Team Leader at Sahd Metal Recycling.

the Center to where it is now.”

“When you’re sitting around a room, being completely vulnerable, showing your numbers, talking about your challenges in your business, [and] sharing issues, it really

– S. Dale High Chair of High Foundation and Chair Emeritus of High companies

is so helpful to have all those people in that room holding you accountable on things.”

The High Center’s influence spans across six

Scan here to watch the video

regions in Central Pennsylvania, serving more

2024/2025 Impact Report | 25

High Foundation Impact Snapshots We are proud to amplify the work of passionate humanitarians committed

to addressing critical needs in communities where High companies have a

business presence. Here’s a look at a handful of projects we’ve funded over the past year:

WILLIAMSPORT, PA

Greater Lycoming Habitat for Humanity

We supported a home preservation program, making home maintenance affordable for low-income families in Lycoming County. >> lycominghabitat.org

The Salvation Army

We sponsored the Golden Agers Program, designed to disrupt patterns of marginalization and isolation among senior citizens and

Lycoming College

We supported the construction of a Learning Commons, housing Lycoming College’s tutoring services and writing and math centers in a central,

people with disabilities by providing a safe, welcoming environment to socialize and enjoy a nutritious lunch. >> pa.salvationarmy.org/williamsport-pa

accessible location. >> lycoming.edu

United Way of North Central Pennsylvania

We sponsored Project Lifesaver, a program aiding local emergency services and caregivers in protecting and locating individuals with cognitive disorders who are prone to wandering. >> uwncpa.org

26 | High Foundation

MERCER COUNTY, NJ

HomeFront

We supported the renovation of HomeFront’s dining area, elevating guest dignity and creating a trauma-informed environment where families can eat and mingle. >> homefrontnj.org

Homes by TLC

We contributed to the creation of 212 Sullivan Way, a permanent, affordable, service-enriched housing project for homeless and low-income residents. >> homefrontnj.org/Get-Help

SPRINGBORO, OH

SARASOTA, FL

Bay Park Conservancy

We sponsored the development of Bay Park Conservancy’s cultural and educational programs in tandem with the organization’s third anniversary celebration. >> thebaysarasota.org

Community Foundation of Sarasota County

We contributed to the Seasons of Sharing and Suncoast Disaster Recovery funds, providing critical hurricane disaster relief to residents of Sarasota County. >> cfsarasota.org

Clothes That Work

We funded a mobile clothing unit, broadening the organization’s reach into neighboring counties and building a stronger regional workforce. >> clothesthatwork.org

Safe Haven Farms, Inc.

We funded new furnishings, program supplies, and maintenance costs for a community center offering

Family Promise of South Sarasota County

We funded renovations of the Baffin Shelter, which provides a safe, stable place where families experiencing homelessness can rebuild their lives. >> familypromisessc.org

Safe Children Coalition

We supported the construction of the organization’s

residential, day, and community services for adults

youth shelter, creating a haven for up to 200 teens

with developmental disabilities.

experiencing homelessness each year.

>> safehavenfarms.org

>> sccfl.org

2024/2025 Impact Report | 27

2024–2025 Opportunity Grantees

ACROSS 12 CITIES AND 6 STATES

Aaron’s Acres

ECHOS

Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay

Elizabethtown College

Arch Street Center

The Factory Ministries

ASSETS of Lancaster

Faith Friendship Ministries

Bay Park Conservancy

Family Promise of South Sarasota County

Bethel African Historical Services Blessings of Hope Boys & Girls Club of Lancaster Bridge of Hope

Friendship Community Fulton Theatre Company A Gift of Smiles GiGi’s Playhouse Lancaster

The Janus School John Paul II Center for Special Learning Keystone Human Services Lancaster Area Habitat for Humanity Lancaster Bible College Lancaster City Alliance Lancaster Conservancy

Girls on the Run Lancaster

Lancaster County Community Foundation

Good Neighbors Inc.

Lancaster County Food Hub

Good Samaritan Services

Lancaster County Therapeutic Riding Inc.

City of Lancaster, PA

Greater Lycoming Habitat for Humanity

Lancaster Dollars for Higher Learning

Clothes That Work

Greenlight Operation

The Common Wheel

Gretna Theatre

Community Action Partnership of Lancaster County, Inc.

HDC MidAtlantic

Central Pennsylvania Food Bank Chestnut Housing Corporation Children Deserve a Chance Foundation Children’s Home of York

Community Basics Inc. Community First Fund Community Foundation of Sarasota County

High Center for Nonprofits Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County

Conestoga River Club Cultural Alliance of York County East Chestnut Street Mennonite Church 28 | High Foundation

Lancaster Early Education Center Lancaster Farmland Trust Lancaster General Health Foundation Lancaster Housing Fund I Lancaster Public Library

HomeFront, Inc.

Lancaster Redevelopment Fund Inc.

Homes by TLC Inc.

Lancaster Science Factory

Horizons at Lancaster Country Day School

Lancaster Symphony Orchestra

Community Progress Council, Inc Compass Mark

Lancaster Downtowners

Horn Farm Center for Agricultural Education

LancasterHistory Landis Communities

Hospice & Community Care

Leadership Lancaster, Inc.

The HUB

Leg Up Farm

WILLIAMSPORT

ALLENTOWN

PA

DENVER LANCASTER YORK OH

HARRISBURG

NC

SPRINGBORO

NJ

TRENTON/EWING

CHARLOTTE

MT. LAUREL

SC

CHARLESTON

Little Conestoga Creek Foundation

FL SARASOTA

The Loft Community Partnership Luthercare Lycoming College Lycoming County United Way

Penn State Health Lancaster Medical Center Peyton Walker Foundation

SWAN Scaling Walls a Note at a Time Tec Centro Workforce Network

Mental Health America of Lancaster County

Power Packs Project

Milagro House

Prima Arts Inc.

Thaddeus Stevens Foundation

The Mix at Arbor Place

Red Rose Film Festival

United Disabilities Services Foundation

Mt. Hope Nazarene Retirement Community

RegenAll

The New Holland Band New Hope Community Life Ministry New Hope Ministries New Person Ministries The North Museum of Nature and Science North Star Initiative Now I Can Foundation Northeast Parish Resource Center Inc. Partners for Environmental Stewardship

Ringling College of Art and Design

Tenfold

United Way of the Capital Region United Way of Lancaster County

Rock Ford Foundation VisionCorps Ryan Brubaker Foundation Safe Children Coalition Safe Haven Farms Inc.

Water Street Mission Wellness Responder

The Salvation Army

WellSpan Health

Schreiber Center for Pediatric Development

Welsh Mountain Health Centers

Spanish American Civic Association

YMCA of the Roses

Stroud Water Research Center

York County Children’s Advocacy Center

Susquehanna Heritage Corporation

YWCA Lancaster 2024/2025 Impact Report | 29

Unofficial hybrid version

1861 William Penn Way Lancaster, PA 17605 highfoundation.org

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