Four local organizations won $10,000 to support efforts aimed at improving the community.

Learning how they can help is one of the main goals of the Lima Memorial Foundation Emerging Philanthropists group.

Lima Senior High School DECA students made a $1,000 donation to the Special Olympics.

The Friends of the Symphony serve as a support organization for the Lima Symphony Orchestra. Throughout the year, members hold fundraisers to provide financial assistance for educational programming and other organizational needs.

“This year’s show was another great success,” said one organizer. “Even with the heat, the community came out strong, and we’re proud to support these groups doing meaningful work.” Among the non-profits receiving funds was the Veterans Food Pantry of Northwest Ohio, Warriors Way, Spread the Love, The Love Luggage Project, Westgate Angels, All Star Pet Rescue, Soldiers of Honor, and The Arc of Lima.

Coach Rod Simpson, who leads the C2K Striders, says the athletes are ready for the challenge.

“The kids are going to have an opportunity to compete against the best of the best around the country,” Simpson said. “So, you know, I'm just looking for them to have an opportunity to be exposed to greatness.”

To keep her memory alive, the Lima affiliate of the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice (NABCJ) established the Bonita Haynes Memorial Scholarship. It is funded in part by an annual golf scramble, which organizers hope will continue to grow in both participation and sponsorship to increase the amount raised.

Money raised during the July campaign will go directly toward helping sustain the Salvation Army’s year-round operations in Lima.