The close-knit community of Upper Arlington will soon gather to celebrate the philanthropic spirit that permeates its streets and homes. Honoring those who have contributed significantly to the town’s welfare, the Upper Arlington Community Foundation (UACF) is gearing up for its annual event, The Heart of UA, set for April 27 at the Bob Crane Community Center. This event is not just a feel-good gathering. It serves the practical purpose of raising funds that will allow UACF to operate as a grantmaker in the community.
This year's spotlight shines upon the Crane family, which is recognized for their enduring support and contributions to Upper Arlington. Previous honorees read as a who's who of local philanthropists, including Kip Greenhill in 2024 and the Ness family in 2023. Through events like Heart of UA, the Foundation has channeled resources towards impactful projects, such as the $8.1 million acquisition that fostered the renovation of the event's namesake, the Bob Crane Community Center.
UACF focuses on initiatives that bolster the quality of life for Upper Arlington's residents. This includes programs designed to aid older adults—like the File of Life program, highlighted on the UA Commission on Aging's initiatives—and a balanced program for those grappling with Alzheimer’s. The Foundation also addresses urgent needs through the Good Neighbor Fund. It offers a crucial financial lifeline for individuals and families blindsided by hardship, helping them secure necessities like housing and healthcare.
The scope of the Foundation's influence stretches from the pragmatics of emergency aid to the aesthetics of community spaces—"several landscaped areas in our parks and public spaces have been enhanced thanks to the support of the Foundation, " according to the City of Upper Arlington. Public safety hasn't been neglected either, with UACF funding CPR training for first responders, underpinning the CARES program's start-up, and granting children access to Safety Town, a program dedicated to early safety education.
Upper Arlington residents prepare to join hands in a collective celebration of community spirit and commitment as the Heart of UA approaches. This year’s honorees, the Crane family, embody the ideals of local stewardship and generosity that the event and the Foundation continuously strive to uplift. For an evening, benefactors and beneficiaries alike will bask in the warmth of a community that recognizes its pillars and commits to building upon its legacy.
