Friends of the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation have joined together to create a new permanent endowment fund that will forever support the Foundation’s work and honor the dedication of the organization’s previous Executive Director, Judy Ritchie.

The Judith Ritchie Legacy Fund is a tribute to Judy’s 24-year career and dedication to the region and its regional community foundation. To help the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation (PACF) grow this fund, Judy’s husband Doug Ritchie and friends, Mary Riccobene, and Mary Anne and Doug Ketelsen are offering a $1:$1 match for all donations to the Judith Ritchie Legacy Fund made before June 30, 2024. Total match available is $225,000.

Dubbed the “Extra Mile Challenge” by the PACF Board of Directors, the Foundation is pleased to announce that it’s two-thirds of the way to meeting the fundraising challenge.

To date, 59 donors have contributed a total of $155,500 to the Judith Ritchie Legacy Fund. Lead supporters, with gifts varying from $5,000 to $50,000, include Kay and Dr. Wayne Dunn, Mary and Bob Wright, Wendy and John Ralsten, Ginger and Curtis Miller, West Virginia Central Federal Credit Union, the Spirit of Giving Fund, and many anonymous donors. Gifts have gratefully been received in memory of Carol and William Watson and Sue and Bruce White.

“For 60 years, the PACF has been a resource to assist civic minded individuals in meeting their charitable goals,” said PACF supporter Curtis Miller. “Judy went the extra mile for many years as Executive Director. It is our turn to go the extra mile and help the Foundation take a big step toward its own sustainable future.”

Those who want to go the “extra mile” for the Foundation may make their donation online at www.pacfwv.com/extramile or by mailing a check, made payable to the PACF, to PACF, PO Box 1762, Parkersburg, WV 26102. Individuals who would like to learn more or to discuss other gift options may contact the Foundation’s current Executive Director, Fred Rader, or its Senior Development and Stewardship Officer, Julie Posey, by calling 304-428-4438.