Community Foundation of South Lake Celebrates 30th “Pearl Anniversary”

For wedding anniversaries, 30 years is typically the “pearl” anniversary. As the Community Foundation celebrates its 30th year, I’d like to share “pearls of wisdom” about this true gem!

Pearls show us that something lasting can come from humble beginnings. The Community Foundation of South Lake was formed on June 30, 1995 as the result of an agreement between the South Lake Hospital and Orlando Health (formerly Orlando Regional Healthcare.) Even though the population of South Lake County was only about 10,000 then, visionary leaders sowed the seeds to Serve the greatest needs in our community.

Pearls give us the phrase “the world is your oyster.” We believe anything is possible when you Connect people who have the capacity to help with those who need it most. This is the centerpiece of our mission.
Today our reach is like a string of pearls: people helping people.

Pearls are stunning in their natural form. In the same way a living oyster grows a pearl from a grain of sand, our purpose is multi-layered. It’s natural for the Community Foundation to Give to organizations that lift people in crisis, promote education, and support children and families.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, the Community Foundation of South Lake has grown to manage nearly $16 million in assets and has cumulatively awarded more than $9 million to local nonprofits and $740,000 in scholarships to students from South Lake County.

Pearls are timeless. So is the Community Foundation. For the next 30 years, and beyond, we will continue our mission to Serve. Connect. Give.

Stay in touch about the upcoming events to celebrate our 30th anniversary. We hope you’ll join us!