Many don’t know that the first instrument Columbus native and world-renowned musician Rahsaan Roland Kirk played was a water hose. His passion and innovation would later inspire the establishment of a Scholarship Fund in his name.

The Wexner Center for the Arts remains a cultural hub in the Columbus community after 25 years.

Joe and Cary Hanosek’s family experiences and charitable interests transformed into an idea to help children with epilepsy.

Cindy Monroe, founder, president, and CEO of Thirty-One Gifts, started the direct selling company in 2003 with the goal to provide financial opportunities that empower and inspire women. Through her vision, she has changed the lives of more than 100,000 women who have chosen to join the business as independent sales consultants.

American Electric Power and American Electric Power Foundation have been champions of efforts to make the central Ohio community stronger for many years. They were key partners in helping transform the downtown riverfront into a destination with parks and exciting amenities for residents and visitors alike, and have supported a wide range of nonprofit organizations and programs.

Adaptive Sports Connection strives to make sports and outdoor recreation accessible to all.

Matt Martin, Director of Community Research, shares his experiences traveling to Japan as part of a multi-sector cohort of Columbus leaders to learn about the many ways Japanese communities are responding to aging population trends. The experience offered inspiring examples of the way cities are building community, as well as insights into how central Ohio can ready itself for a growing population.

For many, the name White Castle is synonymous with hamburger sliders and restaurants that resemble castles. But for central Ohio nonprofits and White Castle team members across the country, the name holds a far deeper meaning. It’s a family business that values giving back to the community and invests in educational opportunities to help people achieve their dreams.

Wanting to be more thoughtful and strategic with their charitable giving, Chauhan and Wakelin established the Wakelin-Chauhan Family Fund, a Donor Advised Fund at The Columbus Foundation, in 2022. Through the fund, the family has generously supported numerous organizations, including those promoting the arts, education, healthcare, and more.

Meet the 2021 Spirit of Columbus honoree, The Food Soldier Roshelle Pate, who, along with The Food Soldier network, represents neighbors helping neighbors and the true essence of community.