Welcome to the

Franklin County Insider!

A Message from Teresa Beckner, Committee Chair

Hello everyone,

In the midst of my final year as Chair of the Franklin County Community Foundation (FCCF), I’ve found myself reflecting on the journey we’ve taken and the impact we are making together.

Last year, the FCCF granted more than $71,000 to local nonprofit organizations dedicated to serving the Franklin County community. As the advisory committee prepares to award this year’s grants later this summer, I remain energized and inspired by the opportunity to continue building meaningful relationships and working hand-in-hand with passionate community members to drive positive change.

My involvement on the Board of Directors of The Foundation for Enhancing Communities has further broadened my understanding of the needs within our South-Central Pennsylvania region. It has reaffirmed the importance of collaboration and our united commitment to making a difference.

Teresa Beckner, Committee Chair

While my time as Chair will soon be coming to a close, I look forward to remaining active on the committee throughout 2026 in a member role and continuing to support and serve the Franklin County community I care so deeply about.

Warm regards,

Teresa Beckner,

FCCF Advisory Committee Chair

Meet Your Steward

Erin Gilbert, Philanthropic Officer

Hello everyone,

My name is Erin Gilbert, and I’m proud to serve as the steward to the Franklin County Community Foundation (FCCF). In this role, I act as a bridge between TFEC and the FCCF Advisory Committee—working together to build strong relationships and foster meaningful connections that benefit the entire Franklin County community.

The Foundation for Enhancing Communities recently conducted a community needs assessment across the counties we serve. In Franklin County, two pressing challenges emerged:



• The growing lack of affordable housing, with both median home and rental prices rising faster than incomes.
• Limited access to affordable, high-quality early childhood education and daycare.

These findings will continue to guide and shape the work we do moving forward.

As steward, my goal is to cultivate trust and collaboration between community members and both the FCCF and TFEC. I’m passionate about connecting with local organizations and residents to make a positive, lasting impact in Franklin County.

And you can be a part of this mission, too. Whether it’s supporting your local farmers market, volunteering at a neighborhood event, or taking part in sustainability efforts like recycling—every action counts. Philanthropy isn’t just about financial support; it’s also about showing up, lending a hand and investing your time and energy in your community.

If you’re interested in getting more involved with the FCCF or learning how you can make a difference, I’d love to hear from you. Please feel free to reach out at egilbert@tfec.org.

Together, we can continue building a brighter future for Franklin County.

Sincerely,



Erin Gilbert

Philanthropic Officer

egilbert@tfec.org

The Needs of Franklin County

TFEC strives to stay informed on the needs of the community.

Our TFEC Team has compiled the needs of Franklin County to inform the steps we take when helping with community development. Our Franklin Needs Assessment is a comprehensive look at Franklin County and the challenges facing its citizens.

2024 in Review

The Franklin County Community Foundation had a big impact in 2024! Read about the nonprofits and students who were supported throughout the year.

Grantee Impact in Action

MilitaryShare allows Central Pennsylvania Food Bank to serve the heroes who previously served for us by providing nutritious food to eligible military veterans and their families at MilitaryShare distribution sites. Grant funds were used to source, store, package and distribute health-sustaining food to our eligible military veterans and families throughout Franklin County. 

Meet the Advisory Committee

Our advisory committee is dedicated to helping steward the Franklin County Community Foundation into an era of strength and support. Thank you to our dedicated committee members!

• Teresa Beckner, Chair
• Elizabeth Denlea, Vice Chair
• John Boozer
• Lisa Eyer
• Anne Finucane

• Elissa Heil
• Doug Harmon
• Linda Gottfried
• Daniel Baer
• Jason Crider

Thank you for reading!