Since 1963, the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation has championed possibility across the region by connecting generous people to the area’s greatest needs and opportunities. Today, that mission continues as we work to strengthen local nonprofits, steward charitable resources, and serve as a trusted leader in philanthropy.
By supporting our Community Sponsors campaign, you’re helping sustain the day-to-day work that makes long-term impact possible. Your annual gift directly supports the Foundation’s operational needs — ensuring our team can continue responding to community challenges and providing expert services. Thank you for partnering with us to build a stronger, more vibrant future for our region.
Craig D. Richards was born the son of John W. Richards and Paula J. Brasseur on September 27, 1961.
As a 1983 graduate of the West Virginia Institute of Technology School of Engineering, Craig began his long and dedicated career as a licensed PE in the state of West Virginia.
In 1988, Craig became an employee of Burgess and Niple, beginning his 34-year tenure with the firm. In that time, he became a valued and loyal employee dedicating his passions to servicing areas of West Virginia, Ohio, Michigan, and Virginia. His service led to many successes and accolades amongst the engineering community by and large. Craig was the director of the Engineering Section of the firm’s Parkersburg, WV office and earned shared ownership with the company. He was the immediate Past-President of the West Virginia Water Environment Association, Chairman of the Vienna Planning Commission, and Secretary/Treasurer of the Northern Panhandle Watershed Council, to name a few. Most recently, Craig played a pivotal role in the development of the West Virginia Infrastructure Report Card- a report that aided Senator Manchin and the US Senate to pass the US infrastructure Bill of 2022.
Craig was the dedicated husband of Vickie, his wife. They were blessed with 37 beautiful years of marriage. Craig and Vickie also raised two daughters- Megan (Lee) Weiss of Marietta, and Katlyn Richards of Parkersburg; and they were blessed with two fun-filled grandsons, Henry and Harvey Aston of Marietta.
Craig was passionate about engineering, cars, and being the handyman extraordinaire. Friends and family of Craig would often find him tinkering on one of his beloved Mustangs or taking the car for a drive with his wife, daughters, and grandsons. He was also an active member of St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, sharing a faith that provided him with the comfort and strength he needed in the final days of his life. Those who knew Craig would describe him as diligent, dedicated, compassionate, and honorable.
After a valiant struggle with cancer, Craig passed away on February 19, 2023. He died at home surrounded by his beloved friends and family.
Craig’s family and friends created a memorial scholarship fund in his honor to support students who are pursuing a degree or certification in civil engineering.
James G. "Jim" Midkiff and Dottie L. Midkiff of Vienna, WV, shared a deep and enduring love that spanned decades. Together, they built a life filled with mutual devotion, community service, and cherished memories.
Jim was born on February 1, 1943, in Parkersburg, WV, the son of the late Charles C. Midkiff and Marguerite Carney Midkiff. A graduate of Parkersburg High School (Class of 1961), he pursued higher education, earning an associate degree in law enforcement from Parkersburg Community College and a bachelor's degree from Glenville State College. Jim proudly served his country as a U.S. Marine during the Vietnam Era, becoming a life member of the Third Marine Division Association, Post 1212 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and a member of American Legion Post 15 and The Marine Corps League. His dedication to public service defined his career, culminating in his role as the City of Parkersburg's 32nd Chief of Police. Throughout his years in law enforcement, he held numerous leadership positions, including serving on the Governor's Commission on Crime, Delinquency and Corrections, and various local advisory boards. Jim was a lifelong sports enthusiast and an avid fan of WVU football and basketball, enjoying racquetball and golf in his later years. Jim passed away peacefully at his residence on February 1, 2024
Dottie was born on October 7, 1943, in Parkersburg, WV, to the late Cledith H. and Darla J. Cantwell. She was also a proud graduate of Parkersburg High School's Class of 1961 and had a fulfilling career as a legal secretary. Dottie's life was centered on her beloved husband, Jim, who she described as her greatest source of love, care, and happiness. During her illness, Jim devoted himself to her well-being, embodying the unconditional love they shared. Dottie’s warmth and kindness were deeply felt by her family and friends. Dottie passed away on October 2, 2017.
Jim and Dottie rest together at Parkersburg Memorial Gardens. Their enduring love and commitment to each other and their community remain an inspiration to all who knew them.
The James and Dottie Midkiff Charitable Fund supports the region in a variety of important ways. The fund focuses on three important fields:
1) Provides unrestricted grantmaking support allowing the Foundation the support our community's need and opportunities.
2) Supports animal welfare programs through the Foundation's service area.
3) Funds environmental programs/causes. (ie. land and water conservation, protection of native animals, plants, natural ecosystems, parks, and similar such programs/causes in the Foundation's service area.)