Ohio Foundation Awards $1M in Scholarships Since 1998

Since 1998, a small Ohio foundation has quietly changed the lives of more than 500 students by giving away over $1 million in scholarships.

The Buckeye Career Center Foundation is now hosting its first Hearts to Horizons Fundraising Gala on February 14 to help even more seniors launch their careers. The event takes place at Glass on Enchanted Acres in Dennison, bringing together community members and business leaders for an evening of dining, live entertainment, and giving back.

Tickets cost $150 per person and include dinner, desserts, and auctions. DJ Bob Hickman and Saxy Rob will provide the entertainment. Every dollar raised goes directly to scholarships awarded to Buckeye Career Center seniors each spring.

"Hearts to Horizons is more than a fundraiser. It's a night of significance where supporters come together to invest in our students who are preparing for meaningful careers," said Kimberly Hobart Fleming, president of the foundation.

The scholarships make a real difference in students' lives. Some use the money to buy tools for trades like welding or carpentry, while others use it for college tuition. For many students, this funding removes barriers that might otherwise keep them from pursuing their dreams.

The Ripple Effect

When a student receives support to complete their education or training, the benefits extend far beyond one person. These graduates return to their communities as skilled workers, filling critical jobs and strengthening the local economy. They become mentors to the next generation, showing younger students that career success is within reach.

The foundation is actively seeking event sponsors and auction donations. Anyone interested can contact them at 330-447-5522 or buckeyefoundation@gmail.com. Tickets are available at Buckeye Career Center, Mako's Market, or A New Angle Salon.

"By partnering with the foundation, you are investing in a brighter future for both students and the community at large," Fleming said.

Over 28 years, this foundation has proven that community support can transform lives, one scholarship at a time.