From Empty to Exciting: Barberton Community Foundation Awards $230K to Bring New Business

by Kate Deangelis | Apr 14, 2025 | Announcements, Downtown Barberton, Economic Development

From Empty to Exciting:
Barberton Community Foundation Awards $230K to Bring New Business

Barberton Community Foundation, in partnership with Barberton Community Development Corporation (BCDC), Main Street Barberton, and the City of Barberton, is proud to announce $230,000 in grant funding to support three new Barberton businesses as part of an ongoing, strategic effort to reinvigorate downtown Barberton.

The funding is awarded through the Foundation’s Downtown Building Rehabilitation Program (DRP) and its Restaurant & Retail Challenge—two programs designed to attract investment in dormant or inactive downtown buildings.

These programs are funded by Barberton Community Foundation and administrated by Barberton Community Development Corporation. Main Street Barberton and the City of Barberton are also involved to provide support as these business come to life downtown in the Magic City.

Grant Recipients Overview:

Downtown Building Rehabilitation Program
• Clem’s Viral Bites – $95,000 to renovate 477 W. Tuscarawas Ave.
• The Caddie Corner – $95,000 to renovate 650/652 W. Tuscarawas Ave.

Restaurant & Retail Challenge
• The Tea Lady – $20,000 to establish a new tearoom experience at 190 2nd Street NW
• The Caddie Corner – $20,000 to launch an experiential golf simulation at 650/652 W. Tuscarawas Ave.

Key to these programs is the required matching investment from the business owners. Together, these businesses are committing a 100 percent match to the funding awarded through these grants. The money will be applied to building renovations and will be paid as a reimbursement once the work is complete.

“We’re building real momentum in downtown Barberton,” said Josh Gordon, Executive Director of Barberton Community Foundation. “These grant programs represent a coordinated strategy to bring interesting businesses into our downtown while supporting people in the business community who are stepping up and investing alongside us. We’re seeing real momentum.”

“Congratulations to these businesses for being selected and investing in downtown Barberton,” said Mayor William Judge. “Continuing to build our downtown remains a priority and this is another step in that direction. The City is proud of this collaboration with the business owners, the Foundation, BCDC, and Main Street Barberton. This kind of teamwork is exactly why we’re seeing progress—and why Barberton’s revitalization continues to be successful.”

Three Businesses, One Shared Vision

Notably, The Caddie Corner received funding from both programs—underscoring how the Foundation’s distinct grant programs work together. In addition to renovating a vacant building, the Caddie Corner is a new entertainment experience in downtown Barberton.

“We’re excited to be expanding with a new business,” said Joe Giovanini, owner of The Caddie Corner. “This isn’t just a renovation project—it’s about creating experiences. We believe in Barberton and if you haven’t visited downtown Barberton in a while, you should. It’s filled with some great businesses and even better people. We hope to be able to make a positive contribution to its growth and assist in turning downtown Barberton into a destination.”

As the “boots on the ground” partner, Main Street Barberton is ready to support them – and all new ventures opening downtown.

“We’re excited to see these businesses open their doors and bring something new to our Main Street footprint,” said Melanie Black Amato, Executive Director of Main Street Barberton. “This is exactly the kind of growth we’ve been working for, and our team is ready to support these business owners and help them succeed.”

The awarded projects highlight what’s possible when public-private collaboration is focused on a vision for downtown revitalization. Three previously vacant buildings will be brought back into active use.

“We are seeing real progress in making our downtown an attractive destination for families,” says Gordon. “We’ve set the stage for real investment in downtown, and this is just the beginning.”

Strong Partnerships, Smart Investments

Applications were researched and reviewed by the Economic Vitality Committee of Main Street Barberton and formally approved by the Barberton Community Development Corporation (BCDC) Project Review Committee. Each submission was evaluated using a scoring rubric that prioritized readiness, financial sustainability, and community impact.

BCDC plays a critical role in administering the Downtown Building Rehabilitation Program, including helping validate that the work was completed as anticipated and providing the reimbursement payments.

“This is a great example of what strong partnerships can accomplish,” said Scott Wagner, Executive Director of BCDC. “We’re proud to serve as the Foundation’s administration partner on this initiative and look forward to continuing the good work of supporting Barberton’s business community.”

What’s Next

Grant recipients are now in the process of finalizing agreements and preparing for project implementation later this year. Future funding opportunities are currently under review by the Foundation’s Economic Development

Committee, and additional announcements may be made at a later date.

For questions about the grant programs, the selection process, or upcoming opportunities, please contact Melanie Black Amato, Executive Director, Main Street Barberton at (330) 510-1335, email melanie@mainstreetbarberton.com or visit mainstreetbarberton.com

JobsOhio Grant Propels Workforce Training Center Feasibility Study in Barberton

by Kate Deangelis | Jan 27, 2025 | Announcements, Economic Development

Media Advisory

JobsOhio Grant Propels Workforce Training Center Feasibility Study in Barberton

Barberton Community Foundation (BCF), in partnership with the City of Barberton, Barberton City Schools, Greater Akron Chamber, and Ilene Shapiro, Summit County Executive, is pleased to announce the receipt of a JobsOhio planning grant to explore the development of a transformative Workforce Training Center in Barberton, Ohio.

The JobsOhio grant, with matching funds provided by BCF, will fund a comprehensive redevelopment real estate study, including site due diligence, preliminary design, project feasibility and proforma analysis for a state-of-the-art training center. This initiative underscores BCF’s commitment to fostering workforce development to enable residents to upskill and pursue higher paying jobs while providing critical support to area businesses who need to build their workforce in key growth industries such as defense manufacturing and polymer science. Barberton has a unique location, strong partnerships, and an uncommon set of resources that make it an ideal community for a workforce training center.

A Catalyst for Regional Growth

The proposed Workforce Training Center is envisioned as a hub for hands-on, industry-specific training to meet the evolving needs of high-demand sectors like defense manufacturing and polymers. Positioned near Barberton’s downtown, the center aims to enhance the local economy by preparing a skilled workforce, attracting investment, and driving innovation in critical growth sectors of the national and local economy.

“This grant from JobsOhio represents a pivotal moment for Barberton,” said Josh Gordon, Executive Director of Barberton Community Foundation. “It validates our city’s potential to lead in workforce development, and we’re eager to collaborate with our partners to turn this vision into reality.”

Key Details:

Grant Purpose: Feasibility study for a Workforce Training Center
Location: Confidential
Partners: City of Barberton, Barberton City Schools, Greater Akron Chamber, Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro
Consultant: Downing Advisors
Completion Date: March 2025

Addressing Workforce Needs

As part of Ohio’s broader effort to bridge the skills gap, this project aligns with the Polymer Industry Cluster’s workforce priorities and the region’s economic development goals. With over 1,400 polymer companies in Northeast Ohio and an aging workforce, the center will provide hands-on training and certifications to prepare individuals for in-demand roles in polymers, manufacturing, and other key industries.

Background:

Greater Akron Polymer Innovation Hub: $51 million in federal funding and $31.25 million in state support.
Barberton PreK–12 Polymer Pathway: A collaborative program for student career readiness in high-growth fields.

Who/Contacts:

Josh Gordon, Executive Director – jgordon@barbertoncf.org
330-745-5995
Barberton Community Foundation
460 W. Paige Ave. Barberton, Ohio 44203

Barberton Community Foundation Approves 2024 Health and Wellness Grants, Welcomes Brad Angeloff to Board

by Kate Deangelis | Jul 23, 2024 | Announcements, Board, Grants

Barberton Community Foundation Approves 2024 Health and Wellness Grants, Welcomes Brad Angeloff to Board

(July 19, 2024 – Barberton, Ohio) – Barberton Community Foundation Board of Directors met for a regular meeting of the board on Thursday, July 18.

Kevin Murphy, Associate Executive Director of Lake Anna YMCA, was the guest speaker. Kevin wrote a grant to Tuscora Park Health and Wellness Foundation that assisted with the purchase of a blood pressure kiosk called HealthBOT. Murphy shared that not only has the kiosk been popular, but it also helped him in his own healthcare journey by detecting his dangerously high blood pressure. Kevin said, “I truly believe that the HealthBOT was a key factor in saving my life. Had I not discovered my incredibly elevated blood pressure thanks to the kiosk, I may not have sought medical attention in time.” With health and wellness grants on the agenda for the meeting, Kevin’s testimonial was helpful perspective for the board when considering the impact a grant may have on the life of a Barberton resident.

The Board officially welcomed Brad Angeloff to the Board of Directors. Angeloff brings additional financial expertise to the Board, with a 22-year career in commercial banking, finance, and lending. Angeloff is a lifelong Barberton resident and currently works at Keybank as the VP Business Banking Relationship Manager.

The main business of the Board of Directors meeting was to review and approved the 2024 Health and Wellness Cycle grants, consisting of 13 grants totaling $140,000.

Victim Assistance Program received $25,000 for their Barberton Advocacy Program. This program supports Barberton residents who have been personally impacted by crime, allowing them access to advocacy services including safety planning, court hearing accompaniment, needs assessments, and education on the legal process.
Summa Health Barberton Campus received $22,500 to support the purchase of 20 Holter cardiac monitors. These devices offer extended monitoring periods for up to a month, giving health care providers a longer and more holistic reading of a patient’s heart activity.
Child Guidance & Family Solutions (CGFS) received $15,000 to support three professional development training modules and the purchase of therapeutic supplies including sensory toys and therapeutic games for children. In 2023, CGFS offered services to 260 adolescent and adult Barberton residents through its offices.
Vantage Aging received $13,000 to expand their Meals on Wheels Northeast Ohio and partner with Barberton Area Community Ministries (BACM) to provide additional meal services to food insecure Barberton senior citizens.
Embracing Futures received $12,000 for their Orthodontic Care Program, providing complete orthodontic services for working families who have been turned down by Medicaid. This funding will support two Barberton children with severe orthodontic issues.
CareStar Community Services received $10,000 to provide Community Based Wraparound Services, which supports community health workers in Barberton who make in-home visits and connect families to many different community resources.
Humane Society of Summit County received $10,000 to support Barberton visits by MABEL Mobile Veterinary Clinic, providing low-cost spay/neuter surgeries, microchipping, and vaccines to cats and dogs.
Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank received $7,500 to support 2025 Barberton District Distribution Program, supporting one of the largest food distribution programs serving the Barberton community. Through this program the Foodbank will distribute as much as 192,000 lbs. of food, the equivalent of 160,000 meals at the Salvation Army of Barberton.
Ben Curtis Family Foundation received $6,500 to support the Birdie Bag Program within Barberton City School District. Funding will be used to purchase the meals and snacks within each Birdie Bag. On a monthly basis, the Ben Curtis Family Foundation delivers 1,540 Birdie Bags to preschool through 8th grade students and regularly stocks the food pantry in the high school.
Axesspointe Community Health Center received $5,000 to support their Mobile Meals program, to serve 55 low-income, elderly, and disabled Barberton residents.
Greenleaf Family Center received $5,000 to support Suicide Prevention Programming for Barberton’s middle and high school students.
Stewarts Caring Place received $5,000 to assist their Cancer Wellness and Support Services, providing a wide range of nonclinical support services to Barberton residents on the cancer-fighting journey, including counseling, financial and legal advising, nutrition, modified movement classes, and more.
United Way of Summit and Medina Counties received $3,500 for 2-1-1 Information and Referral Services. 2-1-1 is a free helpline and database that operates 24/7 to help Barberton residents navigate the maze of health and social services available in Summit County. Last year, 2-1-1 responded to 3,574 requests for help by phone, text, and email, from Barberton residents. 2-1-1 also scheduled 490 food appointments for Barberton households seeking emergency food.

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About Barberton Community Foundation

Established in 1996, Barberton Community Foundation has awarded over 8,500 grants and scholarships totaling more than $109 million since its inception. The Foundation strives to improve, now and forever, the quality of life for Barberton residents by providing leadership on vital issues, fostering collaboration, and creating a legacy of giving to do good. The Foundation strengthens the community for current and future generations by proactively directing its grant dollars to the community’s greatest needs. To read more about Barberton Community Foundation visit www.barbertoncf.org or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/barbertoncommunityfoundation.

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Tuscora Park Health & Wellness Foundation Announces 2024 Nursing Scholarships

by Kate Deangelis | Jul 12, 2024 | Announcements, Tuscora Park

Tuscora Park Health and Wellness Foundation Celebrates Nursing Students

(July 10, 2024, Barberton, Ohio) — Tuscora Park Health and Wellness Foundation (TPHWF) awarded $35,000 to 7 nursing students on Tuesday, July 9, 2024. Members of the Foundation’s board of governors and donors joined the students and their families for a celebratory scholarship luncheon at LaLa’s in the Lakes. Guest speaker, Karen Fitzgerald, a professor in the University of Akron School of Nursing, spoke to the group. Fitzgerald encouraged the students to focus their efforts on the whole person, emphasizing connection, empathy, and dignity as worthy values in the nursing field.

Board member Mary Jo Goss thanked everyone for attending and shared her best wishes for the students on behalf of the Foundation. “I am sure you will all go far,” she said. “It is reassuring to see all of your enthusiasm, compassion, and dedication to nursing. I wish you well in your journeys, and hope you stay in touch with all of us.”

Each of these students is pursuing a Registered Nursing degree.

Tuscora Park Health and Wellness Foundation is proud introduce the 2024 scholarship recipients:

Molly Cunningham, a senior attending Kent State University at Stark and BHS graduate, received a Kovalchin Memorial Scholarship and a Tuscora Park Health and Wellness Nursing Scholarship.
Julia Davenport, a junior attending The University of Akron Wayne Campus, received a Kovalchin Memorial Scholarship and a Tuscora Park Health and Wellness Nursing Scholarship.
Hayden Graffice, a senior attending the University of Mount Union; received a Tuscora Park Health and Wellness Nursing Scholarship.
Mary Beth Kiss, a senior attending the University of Akron, received a Scholarship in Memory of Emma Rist, RN, and a Tuscora Park Health and Wellness Nursing Scholarship.
Mary Krege, a BHS graduate attending Malone University, received a Carol A. Storad Nursing Excellence Scholarship and a Tuscora Park Health and Wellness Nursing Scholarship.
Christina Maldonado, a senior attending Kent State University and BHS graduate, received a Kovalchin Memorial Scholarship, the Christine Elaine Weigand RN Memorial Scholarship, and a Tuscora Park Health and Wellness Nursing Scholarship.
Saedie Suboticki, attending The University of Akron Wayne Campus and BHS graduate, received a Kovalchin Memorial Scholarship.

About the scholarships:

The Bernadine H. Kovalchin, R.N. Scholarship honors Kovalchin, who was an RN at Barberton Citizens Hospital with 13 years’ service, leaving in 1971 as Assistant Coordinator of Nursing Education. She was a longtime local high school instructor of Vocational Medical Careers Training and worked as a school nurse.

The committee annually recognizes another commendable nurse through the scholarship in honor of Emma Rist, R.N., who was a catalyst for the creation of a Coronary Care Unit and then head nurse of the CCU at Barberton Citizens Hospital. Rist was very dedicated to the nursing profession and a visionary for advancements in nursing.

The Carol A. Storad Nursing Excellence Award recognizes an exemplary woman who began as a staff nurse and retired as Chief Nursing Officer at Barberton Citizens Hospital, serving for 43-years total. After retiring she taught high school students interested in pursuing a nursing career as part of a four-city compact program and was affiliated with The University of Akron.

The Christine Elaine Weigand RN Memorial Scholarship is meant to help future nurses overcome obstacles and to achieve their dreams. She was an extraordinary clinician who spent 30 years as an RN, working as a charge nurse, as a preceptor for new RN employees, and as a care manager on the 5100 unit and in the emergency room at Akron General Medical Center (now Cleveland Clinic Akron General). She was active in National Association of Orthopedic Nurses (NAON) and was honored with an Excellence in Nursing award during Nurses Week in 2002.

About TPHWF

Founded in 1997, the Tuscora Park Health and Wellness Foundation is proud to invest in the education of future nurses and in projects that promote health and wellness in our community.

Mission statement: the Tuscora Park Health and Wellness Foundation promotes wellness and helps extend health care, medical and educational services and opportunities to the residents of Summit County and contiguous counties.

2024 Tuscora Park Health and Wellness Nursing Scholarship

2024 Nursing Scholarship Award Recipients

Carrie Herman presenting at luncheon

Cunninghams

Diana Stevenson and Mary Jo Goss with Seniors Cunningham_Maldonado_Kiss

Dianna Stevenson Suboticki, David Stephens_ Kiss_and Davenport

guest speaker Karen Fitzgerald with UA students

Josh presenting

Maldonados

Mary Jo Goss and Christina Maldonado

Mary Jo Goss and Julia Davenport

Mary Jo Goss and Mary Beth Kiss

Mary Jo Goss and Mary Krege

Mary Jo Goss and Molly Cunningham

Mary Jo Goss and Saedie Suboticki

Mary Jo presenting

Mary Krege and guest

Bob Weigan with Christina Maldonado and her mother

Gil Gonzales Joins Barberton Community Foundation

by Kate Deangelis | May 28, 2024 | Announcements, Economic Development

Gil Gonzales Joins Barberton Community Foundation as New Director of Economic Development

Gonzales brings national and local expertise and resources to Barberton

May 28, 2024

Gil Gonzales serves as the Foundation’s new Director of Economic Development

Barberton Community Foundation is pleased to announce Gil Gonzales has joined the Foundation as its new Director of Economic Development. Gonzales brings a strong background in economic development and a deep commitment to supporting small businesses to his role, where he will lead and support initiatives to grow Barberton’s economic base and strengthen the community by leveraging the Foundation’s resources.

“We are thrilled to welcome Gil Gonzales to our team,” said Josh Gordon, Executive Director of Barberton Community Foundation. “His extensive background in economic development, combined with his passion for small business support, make him an exceptional fit for this role. We are confident that Gil’s broad experience, leadership, and tenacity will bring growth and opportunity to Barberton, enhancing our momentum.”

Born and raised in Fresno, California, Gonzales’ upbringing shaped his community-focused worldview. Raised by his grandparents, whose work ethic and community mindset made a lasting impact, Gonzales learned the importance of putting people first and striving to leave the world a better place. These values have driven his commitment to supporting and uplifting communities throughout his career.

After earning his degree in Political Studies and Media Studies from Pitzer College, Gonzales secured a fellowship with then-freshman Senator Bob Dutton, which connected him to his career in economic development as the Senior Director for the Mayor of Los Angeles, Antonio Villaraigosa. He gained valuable insights into how government supports business, helping to secure federal and state funding, and saw the role government can play in unlocking funds and opportunity for working people.

From there, he served as the Vice President of Economic Development for the Arizona Commerce Authority, and then joined the then Governor office in California as an appointee in the Office of Economic and Business Development. In this role, he conducted large-scale negotiations for businesses, directed small business incentive assistance packages, and initiated a rural business outreach program. His work significantly contributed to economic growth and the support of small businesses across the state. Gonzales’ experience also includes building out the California Manufacturing Network and creating statewide programs for small manufacturers.

Most recently, Gonzales explored entrepreneurship, successfully securing $3 million venture capital backing and co-founding Subcity in 2021, a software platform that helps small manufacturing businesses access government tax credits, grants, and financing. Subcity helped companies obtain tens of millions in tax credits.

Gonzales moved to Ohio in 2022, following a job opportunity for his son’s mother, Kendra, as the head track and field coach for the University of Akron.

Regarding his new role, Gonzales said he sought the opportunity to work in Barberton because of the potential for growth and possibility he sees within the community.

“I always knew I wanted to get back into community service and economic development, with a focus on small business support, which is where my passion and heart is,” Gonzales said. “As a long-time economic developer, I am fortunate to be working in Barberton. This city is rich in American history, and full of hard-working people who love their hometown. We have the potential to show the rest of the nation what one small community can do together through collaboration, rolling up our sleeves and doing the hard work ahead.”

In addition to managing the Newell Industrial site, Gonzales will take the lead on the Foundation’s upcoming economic development programs, including the Economic Development Assistance Program (EDAP) and the Downtown Rehabilitation Program (DRP). Applications for these programs can be completed by businesses and building owners beginning June 1- June 30. Gonzales will oversee the programs, and coordinate with the Foundation’s program partner, Barberton Community Development Corporation.

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About Barberton Community Foundation

Established in 1996, Barberton Community Foundation has awarded over 8,500 grants and scholarships totaling more than $109 million since its inception. The Foundation strives to improve, now and forever, the quality of life for Barberton residents by providing leadership on vital issues, fostering collaboration, and creating a legacy of giving to do good. The Foundation strengthens the community for current and future generations by proactively directing its grant dollars to the community’s greatest needs. To read more about Barberton Community Foundation visit www.barbertoncf.org or follow us on Facebook.

Barberton Community Foundation Receives Clean Audit, Opens Game Changer Nominations and Economic Development Funding at May Board Meeting

by Kate Deangelis | May 20, 2024 | Announcements, Board

Barberton Community Foundation Receives Clean Audit, Opens Game Changer Nominations and Economic Development Funding at May Board Meeting

(May 20, 2024 Barberton, Ohio) –Barberton Community Foundation’s Board of Directors met for their regular meeting on Thursday, May 16, 2024.

The meeting opened with a “mission moment” from Barberton City Schools teacher Heather Miller and AMHA representative Valerie Bechtel. Mrs. Miller and Mrs. Bechtel shared how successful a tutoring program at Van Buren Homes has become. This program is a partnership between BCSD and AMHA to provide tutoring to students at the Van Buren Homes community center. Barberton Community Foundation has funded this program as a matching grant partner with the schools for the past two years. Mrs. Miller shared that since the program’s beginnings, it has expanded from 1 to 5 teachers on site, increased to 4 days a week, and teachers see an average of 25 kids from all different grades. The students are putting in the work, too. Mrs. Miller shared that one student was able to increase her math test scores by 20 percentage points since the start of the school year.

Another key outcome is that, while the program began as an outreach initiative to AMHA families, it has become successful enough that parents from around the city are taking their kids to Van Buren Homes for tutoring. Miller said they abide by five core tenants for the program. “We provide a safe space to work, a quiet space to work,” Miller said. “We provide help. We are a continuation of their school day, and we promote a culture of learning and inclusiveness.”

The Foundation’s grant approval in February secures funding for this program through the 2024-2025 school year.

Finance

Tiffany Peters, Director of Finance reported the Foundation has received a clean audit with an unmodified opinion for the 2023 fiscal year. The board unanimously approved the Foundation’s 2023 Audited Financial Statements. Josh Gordon, Executive Director, said,

Governance

The board approved a motion to bring Brad Angeloff onto the board, pending Barberton City Council approval. Angeloff is a lifelong Barberton resident and has a strong financial background, especially in banking and economic development projects, a key focus for the Foundation. “We think he’ll make a great addition to the board,” said Gordon. “We look forward to being in a position to add his talent and expertise to our board.”

Economic Development

The Board continues to focus on initiatives benefiting downtown and economic development in Barberton. Along with Main Street Barberton funding, Newell Street Industrial Park, and Program Related Investments, the Foundation funds two programs aimed at business and building owners. The Economic Development Assistance Program (EDAP) and Downtown Rehabilitation Program (DRP) applications are open June 1-30.

Game Changers

The Board’s Development Committee is seeking nominations for the 2024 Game Changer Award. This award recognizes an individual and an organization or business that has made a positive impact on the community. Details and nominations are open now until June 10. Game Changers are recognized at the Foundation’s Annual Dinner Celebration on November 7. Make your nomination today!

Other Business

Peters announced the launch of GOfund, a new portal where donors and fund representatives can log in to an account and see fund activity, donation history, investment returns, and spendable amounts of the fund. “Adding GOfund to accommodate our donors is a significant advancement for the Foundation and our focus on technology that provides transparency and clarity for donors and fund representatives,” Gordon said.

The Health and Wellness grant cycle applications are due Monday, June 3. Grant partners should submit an LOI and complete an application in the GOapply portal. Contact Barberton Community Foundation at 330-745-5995 with questions.

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About Barberton Community Foundation

Established in 1996, Barberton Community Foundation has awarded over 8,500 grants and scholarships totaling more than $109 million since its inception. The Foundation strives to improve, now and forever, the quality of life for Barberton residents by providing leadership on vital issues, fostering collaboration, and creating a legacy of giving to do good. The Foundation strengthens the community for current and future generations by proactively directing its grant dollars to the community’s greatest needs. To read more about Barberton Community Foundation visit www.barbertoncf.org or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/barbertoncommunityfoundation.

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