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.
In her estate, Wanda B. Mitchell made a gift to the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation to establish the Wanda B. Mitchell Charitable Fund. This fund is dedicated to enhancing our community by awarding grants to vital local causes and programs. Wanda's generosity will have a lasting positive impact on our community, embodying her caring spirit and commitment to making a difference.
Wanda B. Mitchell, who passed away on September 29, 2008, at the age of 97, lived an exceptional life. Born in St. Marys, West Virginia, she was the daughter of Elizabeth and Rev. Benjamin Mitchell. A distinguished educator, she graduated from West Virginia University in 1932 and earned her MA from Northwestern University in 1939. Her teaching career, which spanned four decades including six years at Parkersburg High School, was marked by her significant contributions to education. Ms. Mitchell authored the textbook “Televising Your Message” and co-authored “Stories We Can’t Forget (More Than A Memoir By Two W.Va. Sisters With A Zest For Living).” She was also featured in the film “And No Bells Ring,” produced by the National Association of Secondary School Principals, and was appointed by President Dwight Eisenhower to serve as the only woman on the National Defense Education Act Advisory Board from 1959 to 1961.
Through the Wanda B. Mitchell Charitable Fund, her legacy of compassion and dedication continues to enrich our community.
The General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) West Virginia is part of the International General Federation of Women’s Clubs. GFWC has clubs in all 50 states and 15 foreign countries.
The object of GFWC West Virginia shall be to bring into communication and to unite the women’s clubs and like organizations throughout our state for the purpose of mutual benefit and for the promotion of their common interest in education, industrial, philanthropic, literary, artistic, and scientific culture as interpreted and implemented by established policy.
The organization’s slogan is LIVING THE VOLUNTEER SPIRIT while enhancing the lives or others through community service.
GFWC West Virginia has clubs throughout the state, divided into seven districts.
The GFWC West Virginia Scholarship Fund is the oldest continuing project of GFWC West Virginia, established in 1915. It began as a loan fund and was converted to a scholarship in 2000.
The most important factor in reviewing applications is the student’s Community Service. Another important criterion is financial need.
Students must attend a West Virginia College or University unless their major is not offered in West Virginia.
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.
In his estate, Jim left a gift to the PACF that will long outlive their lifetimes and support the causes that he and Dottie cared about most, including the creation of the James and Dottie Midkiff Scholarship Fund. This scholarship fund supports area students who are pursuing a degree or career in the criminal justice or law enforcement field. Recipients are selected on the basis of character, academic performance, work ethic and community involvement.