Donor Stories

& Impact

Explore how ACF helps donors achieve their philanthropic goals, whatever causes they’re passionate about.

three men and a woman in winter clothes walk in front of Saranac Lake ice palace
  • man standing in front of Japanese knotweed

    Natural Causes

    When Dr. Doug Johnson recognized a stand of knotweed growing alongside Route 28 in his beloved Inlet, he tackled the problem with a physician’s zeal.

  • Woman shows pamphlet to man at table

    Connecting Passion with Purpose

    “I value the ability to get on the phone with the community foundation anytime I have a client who has a big idea or particular need.”

  • Man and woman walking in snow at ski center

    Making a Local Impact is Easy

    Nancy Monette, of the Adirondack family of businesses in Malone, shares what motivates her to give through her Adirondack for Kids Fund at Adirondack Community Foundation.

  • man and woman pose together

    “This is a team effort, and we’re part of the team.”

    Alan Booth’s mother had a mantra when learning about a local issue: “What can we do about it?”

  • Couple stands together outside in front of tree

    Filling in the Blanks

    From joining Adirondack Community Foundation’s Legacy Family to making a commitment to support the region’s most pressing needs, Craig and Connie Weatherup are a force for good in the Adirondacks.

  • Woman smiles wearing purple

    Making a Splash in Lake Placid

    When it comes to making an impact on her Adirondack community, few surpass Lake Placid’s Caroline Lussi. It’s a passion she picked up during her “magical” childhood. 

  • Woman poses for photo with her dog inside.

    Helping Adirondack Neighbors Build their Futures

    In 2013, Lawson and Clint Allen created the annual Allen Family Scholarship for seniors graduating from either Willsboro or Boquet Valley Central School.

  • Woman stands in front of home

    Pathways to Civic Engagement

    “I grew up singing in choirs. I have always appreciated being one voice in a larger chorus, contributing to something bigger than ourselves.”

  • woman and man pose in front of mountains

    Pathways to Understanding

    Bill and Lisa Powers considered establishing a private foundation, but recognized that a donor advised fund was a great vehicle for achieving their philanthropic goals.

  • Couple stands together on a screened-in porch

    Doing Well and Doing Good

    From the ease of making grants to the foundation’s knowledgeable staff, Dave and Holly Wolff say a DAF is the best way to carry out their philanthropy.