BRIDGE TO Opportunity
Uno cial hybrid version IMPACT REPORT
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
A BOLD NEW PLAN
“What
if we could do more?”
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
S.
Dale High
Chairman of the Board
Suzanne M. High
Vice Chair
Michael W. Van Belle
Treasurer
Thomas T. Baldrige
Steven D. High
Gene P. Otto
Hilda A. Shirk
Jordan S. Steffy
Carl J. Strikwerda
That was the challenge before us as we completed a season of visioning and planning over the past year to shape and define a direction and desired impact for High Foundation’s next chapter. We began the process of strategic thinking, research, and engagement with Board and committee members—driving toward a plan to execute on our benefactor, S. Dale High’s vision. What emerged from this work is a bold plan to intentionally and strategically invest in the communities where High companies have a presence—in South Central Pennsylvania and beyond.
To get the job done, we are making an investment in our infrastructure and organizational capacity to achieve the results we know are possible. We are also establishing a clear reporting structure to measure and communicate our impact. We are pleased to share our progress with you on pages 4 and 5 of this Annual Impact Report where we unveil our new mission, core values, and community commitment.
In just one year, we’ve made impressive progress toward our goals, but this is only the beginning. We know that systemic change is difficult and requires consistency, collaboration, and resilience. We are dedicated to making real change together, and we are confident that along with High companies and our community partners, our unified efforts will lead to a brighter future for all. Please join us on the following pages as we reflect on our activities and investments over the past year and celebrate our shared accomplishments.
What if we could do more? We can, and we are!
Robin D. Stauffer Executive Director
High Milestones
1931
High Welding Company is born on Lemon Street in Lancaster City.
1963
S. Dale High joins the family business.
1977
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.
1980
High Foundation is formed.
1983
High Foundation establishes college scholarship program for coworkers’ high school students.
1990
1995
S. Dale High is Founder of the High Center for Family Business at Elizabethtown College.
2001
2009
2017
High Foundation is a major donor of the High Library at Elizabethtown College. 2022 2023
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 partners 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
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 Strategic Framework
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 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 community partnerships where High companies operate.
$1,735,148
S. Dale High Presented with Historic Preservation Trust Award
S. Dale High, Chair of High Foundation and Chair Emeritus of High companies, received the Leadership Award from the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County at the 2024 C. Emlen Urban Award Ceremony. The Leadership Award is presented to an individual who recognizes the value of saving historical artifacts and taking the initiative to ensure their preservation. The award is in recognition of Dale’s leadership skills, restoration and preservation efforts, and his overall goodwill in the community.
Through the preservation of Old Town Lancaster, the building of the Marriott at Penn Square, the preservation of old farmhouses during the development
of Greenfield, and helping to launch the Thaddeus Stevens and Lydia Hamilton Smith Center for History and Democracy, Dale has worked to ensure future vibrancy while preserving the structures that define our community. In his remarks, Dale said:
“Let us all continue to build bridges between our past and our future to remind us of where we came from and inspire where we can go.”
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.
High 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.
2024 Essence of Humanity Award Winners
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 overcome adversity and affect positive change. Regardless of accolades, opinions, or obstacles, they demonstrate the highest human qualities—courage, love, strength, determination, persistence, and more. 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.
Our 2024 Essence of Humanity award winners are Gerald Wilson and Dr. Leroy Hopkins, who have dedicated their lives to service, displaying characteristics of courage, love, strength, determination, and persistence. We congratulate Gerald Wilson and Dr. Leroy Hopkins for their outstanding service to others.
GERALD WILSON grew up in Southeast Lancaster City. After graduating from McCaskey High School, he joined the Lancaster City Bureau of Police as a Cadet. He became extremely active in the community through his work with Crispus Attucks Community Center and the Lancaster Boxing Club. Following his retirement from law enforcement, Wilson taught criminal justice at McCaskey High School for 14 years.
Over his career, Wilson has served on the Board of Directors of the Lancaster County Historical Society, Lancaster County Blind Association, Crispus Attucks Community Center, SouthEast Lancaster Health Services (now Union Community Care), and the Urban League.
DR. LEROY HOPKINS is a Lancaster native and McCaskey High School and Millersville University graduate. He spent the early part of his career as Associate Director for Program and Planning and then Acting Executive Director of the Lancaster Urban League. Dr. Hopkins also holds a Ph.D. in Germanic Languages from Harvard University. From 1979 to 2015, he taught German at Millersville University, retiring as Professor Emeritus of Foreign Languages.
In addition to his professional accolades, Dr. Hopkins has served on many nonprofit boards, including Crispus Attucks Community Center, Lancaster County Library, LancasterHistory, and the Historical Society of Pennsylvania.
Bridges to Opportunity
From health and human services to science and education, High Foundation is proud to partner with organizations leaving a lasting impact on the communities where High companies operate.
Look for our 2023/2024 Bridges to Opportunity stories on the following pages.
Ringling College of Art and Design
Since its opening in 1931, Ringling College of Art and Design has become a world-renowned education center for the next generation of artists and designers, educating both students and the community on how art and creativity are essential dimensions of life.
As a residential campus located in Sarasota, Florida, Ringling College encourages students to connect inside and outside of the classroom and studio setting. The tight-knit campus catalyzes creativity and builds a foundation for generous collaboration and community involvement in the future, which begins during their college years.
“We are an amazingly creative kind of community. That energy just bounces off the walls in terms of how the students interact,”
– Dr. Larry R. Thompson President of Ringling College
In 2024, High Foundation partnered with Ringling College to establish a grant for students from underrepresented populations in Florida, furthering the College’s efforts to cultivate a diverse and inclusive community of artists. During his 25-year tenure as president, Dr. Thompson has watched students of all backgrounds and creative disciplines transform their education into flourishing careers in the arts.
With programs like Computer Animation, Motion Design, and Game Art ranking among the best in the nation and the world, graduates from Ringling College are highly sought after, as artistic giants like Disney, Pixar, and Universal Studios visit campus each year to recruit students.
“We are all about shattering the myth of a starving artist,” Dr. Thompson said. “We take raw talent and turn it into real professionalism so students are able to harness their creative energy and turn it into sought-after products like animations, paintings, or graphic design.”
By partnering with institutions like Ringling College of Art and Design, High Foundation is proud to champion the next generation of creatives positioned to impact the communities where they live and work.
Robin Stauffer, Executive Director of High Foundation, presents Anthony Cancro, Senior Development Officer of Ringling College of Art and Design, with a grant to support underrepresented students pursuing a career in the arts.
Chesapeake Bay Foundation
The Chesapeake Bay is a 64,000-square-mile watershed, spanning six states and impacting more than 18 million people. Since 1966, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) has devoted itself to one mission: Save the Bay.
To restore this massive watershed, CBF works to establish programs to educate future generations of environmental scientists, advocate for legislation to prevent further degradation of the bay, and collaborate with regional partners to adopt innovative approaches to environmental stewardship. With a presence in Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and the District of Columbia, as well as 15 field centers, CBF seeks out innovative conservation efforts grounded in science and community needs.
“We really think the best way to learn about the bay and its rivers and streams is on them,” said Hilary Harp Falk, President and CEO of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.
Located in Virginia Beach, CBF’s Brock Environmental Center is an entry point for students, conservationists, politicians, and community leaders to experience the Bay. Boasting a Living Building Challenge™ certification from the International Living Future Institute, the Brock Environmental Center adheres to rigorous standards of water conservation and energy efficiency.
In March 2024, CBF welcomed leadership from High Foundation and High companies to tour the facility and share how the built environment can promote long-term environmental sustainability in bold and replicable ways, ensuring people and nature can thrive together in every community the Bay touches.
Inspired by the work of CBF in Virginia Beach and other organizations where High operates, High Foundation is devoted to the critical need to address climate change and environmental concerns and find a long-term solution.
Chesapeake Bay Foundation welcomes High Foundation team members at the Brock Environmental Center in Virginia Beach.
Lancaster Central Market
Established in 1730, Lancaster Central Market is the oldest publicly owned continuously running farmer’s market in America. Home to over 65 locally owned businesses, Lancaster Central Market is a mainstay for residents of Lancaster City.
Lancaster Central Market connects local farmers directly with consumers, supports small-scale agriculture, promotes healthy eating, and aims to keep fresh produce accessible to everyone—all with the vision of creating a sustainable and thriving community.
With funding from High Foundation, Lancaster Central Market launched its SNAP Double Bucks program, an effort to reach Lancaster City’s most vulnerable population and combat food insecurity. Through this program, shoppers enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services can double up to $30 of SNAP benefits when shopping at Lancaster Central Market.
Since launching the program in November 2023, approximately $30,000 in SNAP vouchers have been purchased, with 374 individual families accessing nutritious food.
“The market provides affordable and accessible food options to a broad segment of the population, including low-income families. This ensures that all community members can benefit from fresh and healthy food,” said Donna Langley, Executive Director at Lancaster Central Market.
“By shopping with us, you’re not just buying food—you’re investing in our local economy, reducing environmental impact, and building a stronger, healthier future for all of Lancaster.”
– Donna Langley Executive Director at Lancaster Central Market
As Lancaster Central Market approaches its tricentennial year, its commitment to the Lancaster community only becomes stronger. With High Foundation’s support, the team at Lancaster Central Market is modernizing the historic building by upgrading the building’s doors and addressing critical structural improvements, ensuring the longevity of the space for decades to come.
The Factory Ministries
For 30 years, The Factory Ministries has journeyed with people facing rural poverty in Eastern Lancaster County, fueled by the belief that “everyone’s journey matters.”
Recognizing a lack of financial resources is only one aspect of poverty, The Factory Ministries adopted a holistic definition of poverty addressing six categories, including intellectual, physical, emotional, spiritual, relational, and financial resources.
The Factory Ministries provides intentional programming, aimed to develop resources across each focus area, to community members at every age and in each season of life.
Starting from birth, Building Braves programming exists to support families during their children’s most critical developmental stages including education and support for mothers who have just given birth as well as assistance and resources from Pre-K through sixth grade. Pequea Valley students are welcomed to Factory Youth Center when they reach seventh grade, where they connect with peers, receive homework help, and have access to mentoring from a team of volunteers. At 18 years old, community members can access adult advocacy services to set goals, address basic needs of shelter, food, and safety, and work to build friendships with their neighbors.
“We believe all humans are created and have an inherent sense of dignity and worth and value.”
–
Adam Nagle Executive Director of The
Factory Ministries
“As much as we like to look at poverty as an individual problem, we all play a part in finding the solutions,” said Nagle.
Believing transformation is only possible through forming genuine connections, The Factory Ministries invests in building relationships with community stakeholders, leading to exceptional collaboration between local businesses, passionate community members, faith leaders, social service organizations, and the Pequea Valley School District, among others. High Foundation is proud to partner with The Factory Ministries to empower people, connect resources, and build community in Eastern Lancaster County.
High Coworkers in Action
High coworkers are invested in their communities. Their hard work makes a difference each and every day. We are proud of the significant contributions they have made volunteering across Lancaster County.
Lancaster Conservancy
The High Hotels LTD. Corporate office team had a volunteer event at the Lancaster Conservancy Climbers Run Nature Center. They were tasked with clearing a section of hill that is infested with Multiflora Rose, an invasive species that was planted to prevent soil erosion.
Second Harvest Food Bank
In August, some of our Springhill Suites Allentown and the Home2/Tru Easton teammates spent time with the wonderful people at the Second Harvest Food Bank of Lehigh Valley and Northeast Pennsylvania.
Here are some stats of what the team accomplished during their time at Second Harvest Food Bank >>
1,300 lbs of food sorted
2,415 lbs of food packed
2,012 meals provided to the community
Keith Williams, Vice President of Engagement and Education with the Lancaster Conservancy, did a great job of educating the group and leading the charge. Keith shared that High partners deeply with Lancaster Conservancy, calling out the great work in Greenfield and the financial support High has provided.
StructureCare® Habitat House
The StructureCare® team is dedicated to being part of High Foundation’s mission to improve the lives of people who live and work in the communities in which High companies provide economic investment and employment.
Recently StructureCare® Lancaster and Philadelphia area coworkers volunteered with Lancaster Lebanon Habitat for Humanity at a new build community in Columbia, PA in partnership with High Foundation.
Our Coworkers Celebrating a Higher Purpose
In December 2023, S. Dale High completed his transfer of ownership of both High Industries Inc. and High Real Estate Group LLC to High Foundation. This new structure continues Dale’s legacy of values-based leadership as well as his commitment to the High companies and the communities in which they provide economic investment and employment. It is a continuation of The High Philosophy of trust and innovation that has been in place for decades and will continue to benefit Lancaster County and beyond for generations to come.
To celebrate this significant milestone in the company history, all High coworkers were invited to designate $100 to an organization of their choice from a list of 108 partners across the communities where High businesses operate. More than 86% of High coworkers gave over $165,000 to causes they cared about.
“When High coworkers celebrated the announcement of our Higher Purpose, they celebrated with an outpouring of generosity to our communities. They truly demonstrated the belief that— owned by High Foundation—the work we do makes a difference.”
– Darryl Gordon Vice President of Human Resources/EEO Officer, High companies
Chris Snyder and Robin Stauffer (center) with the staff at ATTOLLO.
Steve Nieli, Chris Snyder, and Robin Stauffer presenting a check to Kate Zimmerman from United Way of Lancaster County.
Jake Fisher of High Steel Structures (center) presenting a check to Family Promise of Lycoming County.
High Foundation Impact Snapshots
We are proud to amplify the work of bold environmental advocates and passionate humanitarians committed to addressing critical housing needs in communities where High coworkers live. Here’s a look at a handful of our 2023-2024 partner projects we have been honored to support:
ENVIRONMENT
Chesapeake Bay Foundation
We purchased a hybrid SUV to support the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s programming across Pennsylvania. >> cbf.org
Stroud Water Research Center
Our funding ensured stream-side plantings received high-quality aftercare to reduce water pollution in downstream communities and the Chesapeake Bay. >> stroudcenter.org
Lancaster Clean Water Partners
We supported Lancaster Clean Water Partners’ efforts to boost collaboration between community partners as they advocate for clean water across the county. >> lancastercleanwaterpartners.com
Lancaster Conservancy
As Presenting Sponsor, we contributed toward the eighth annual Lancaster Water Week with over 60 events and opportunities to learn, explore, and act to protect Lancaster waterways.
>> lancasterconservancy.org/water-week
RegenAll
We sponsored RegenAll’s second annual Climate Summit at The Ware Center - Millersville University where more than 50 partner organizations gathered to identify resilient climate solutions.
>> regenall.org
The Nature Conservancy
We sponsored innovative conservation solutions to preserve essential waterways, benefit farmers, and protect our environment.
>> nature.org
HOUSING
Bridge of Hope
We sponsored additional affordable housing options for single mothers facing homelessness.
>> lancaster.bridgeofhopeinc.org
Community Action Partnership’s
(CAP) Domestic Violence Services
We supported CAP’s crisis intervention programming and safe housing options for individuals escaping domestic violence.
>> caplanc.org
Good Samaritan Services
We funded the repair and improvement of a temporary housing location where residents can live for up to six months as they work toward stability.
>> goodsamservices.org
Homes by TLC
We funded the development of eight affordable housing units in Mercer County, NJ where tenants pay no more than 30% of income towards their housing, no matter how low their income is.
Lancaster Redevelopment Fund
We sponsored a new construction project that will grant residents of Lancaster County access to safe and affordable housing options.
>> lchra.com
York Habitat for Humanity
Our funding afforded qualified families interest-free 30-year mortgages that do not exceed 30% of a family’s income.
>> yorkhabitat.org
2024 High Scholarship Winners
High Foundation announced our 2024 High Scholarship Award recipients, Chase Orinski of Bethlehem, PA, and Lincoln Dillman of Lancaster, PA. The students have been awarded $20,000 scholarships, which provide $5,000 per year for four years.
High Foundation values education and has been investing in the children of High coworkers for the past 41 years, encouraging secondary education in the form of college or trade school. A June 12 luncheon was hosted to bring together parents, students, and High Foundation’s Board to honor the students and congratulate them on their accomplishments.
Robin Stauffer led the event with opening remarks. She celebrated Chase and Lincoln for their many accomplishments and noted that both students have chosen to embody the High value of servant leadership through their volunteer work and community involvement.
CHASE ORINSKI is the son of Amy Orinski, Project Coordinator with High Construction Company, who joined High companies in 2020. Chase attended Liberty High School in the Bethlehem Area School District where he served as president of the Future Business Leaders of America Club, an organization he participated in all four years of high school. He was a member of the golf team, serving as its captain his senior year, and participated in DECA Inc. and Science Olympia. Community service included participation in Greater Lehigh Valley Athletes, Bethlehem Area Public Library, Historic Bethlehem, and Lehigh Valley International Airport as a Junior Navigator. Chase plans to pursue a degree in Sports Management from the University of Iowa.
LINCOLN DILLMAN is the son of Brad Dillman, Vice President of Engineering with High Steel Structures LLC, who joined High companies in 2007. Lincoln attended Conestoga Valley High School, where he was a member of the National Honor Society as a junior and senior, Class Secretary in 10th–12th grades, Commissioner of Line Crew his junior and senior year, and participated in Students Against Destructive Decisions all four years, serving as president his senior year. Community service included founder and president of Readers Helping Readers, English as a Second Language tutor, and Shop with a Buckskin. Lincoln plans to pursue a degree in Political Science and Economics from the University of Richmond.
Chase Orinski alongside his mother Amy Orinski, Project Coordinator with High Construction Company
Lincoln Dillman with his mother Anne Dillman and father Brad Dillman, VP of Engineering at High Steel Structures
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.
Lancaster Water Week celebrates the 1,400 miles of streams and rivers in Lancaster County. These waterways are the source of our drinking water, drive economic and agricultural growth, and allow us to escape into nature. As Presenting Sponsor, High Foundation was honored to support this important work for our community.
“ 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
Since 2012, High Foundation has been proud to support the Lancaster County Community Foundation’s signature event, the ExtraGive. Over the last 11 years, community members have raised over $100 million for causes like health, education, hunger, and poverty alleviation. As Presenting Sponsor, High Foundation is proud to support this annual day of giving when every community member can invest in what matters to them.
Special thanks to our community partners
A Woman’s Concern
Anchor Lancaster
Arts at Millersville University
ATTOLLO Prep
Bench Mark Program
Bethany Christian Services of Central Pennsylvania
Blessings of Hope
Boys & Girls Club of Lancaster
Bridge of Hope
Bright Side Opportunities Center
CASA of Lancaster County
Central Market Trust
Central Pennsylvania Food Bank
Chesapeake Bay Foundation
Chestnut Housing Corporation
Church World Service Lancaster
City of Lancaster
The Clinic for Special Children
Clothes That Work
The Common Wheel
Community Action Partnership of Lancaster County
Community First Fund
ACROSS 13 CITIES AND 6 STATES
Conservation Foundation of Lancaster Co
Cultural Alliance of York County
Demuth Foundation
East Chestnut Street
Mennonite Church
Eastern Mennonite University
Education Foundation of Sarasota County
Elizabethtown College
The Factory Ministries
Foundation of the EDC of Lancaster Co
Franklin & Marshall College
Friendship Community
GiGi’s Playhouse Lancaster
Girls on the Run Lancaster
Good Neighbors
Good Samaritan Services
Greystone Manor Therapeutic Riding Center
Harrisburg Area Community
College Foundation
Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County
HomeFront
Homes by TLC
Horizons at Lancaster Country Day School
Immigreat Lancaster, Inc.
The Janus School
Joseph T. Simpson Public Library
Junior Achievement of South Central Pennsylvania
Lancaster Area Habitat for Humanity
Lancaster Bible College
Lancaster City Alliance
Lancaster Clean Water Partners
Lancaster Cleft Palate Clinic
Lancaster Conservancy
Lancaster County Community Foundation
Lancaster County Food Hub
Lancaster General Health Foundation
Lancaster Mennonite School
Lancaster Redevelopment Fund Inc.
Lancaster Science Factory
Lancaster Symphony Orchestra
LancasterHistory
Leadership Lancaster, Inc.
Lighthouse Vocational Services
Little Conestoga Creek Foundation
Mental Health America of Lancaster County
The Mix at Arbor Place
The Nature Conservancy
New Hope Community Life Ministry
New Hope Ministries
Parish Resource Center Inc.
Partners for Environmental
Stewardship
WILLIAMSPORT WILKESBARRE
Penn State Health
Penn State THON
Pennsylvania College of Art and Design
Peyton Walker Foundation
Pleasant View Communities
Prima Theatre
RegenAll
Ringling College of Art and Design
The Salvation Army
Samaritan Counseling Center
Schreiber Center for Pediatric Development
Spanish American Civic Association (SACA)
Stroud Water Research Center
Susquehanna Heritage Corporation
SWAN - Scaling Walls A Note At A Time
Tec Centro Workforce Network
Tenfold
Thaddeus Stevens Foundation
United Way of Lancaster County
Water Street Mission
Welsh Mountain Health Centers
YMCA of the Roses
York Habitat for Humanity
Youth Mentoring Partnership
HARRISBURG
LANCASTER
MT. LAUREL
CHARLOTTE
CHARLESTON
