CFTT Tioga County, PA’s “Seeds of Hope” Event a Resounding Success
Sayre, PA — The Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers (CFTT) celebrated the strength and generosity of Tioga County at its “Seeds of Hope” event on September 15, 2025, at the newly renovated Knoxville Public Library. The evening highlighted the impact of community support and philanthropy in fostering lasting change.
Guests enjoyed exceptional cuisine from A. Hughes Catering Co., live music by Baleigh McClaren, and historical tours of Knoxville led by Ron Meinstereifel, including a display of the Rails to History HO-scale model railroad. Photographer Tim McBride captured the memorable evening, with all three generously volunteering their time and talents.
Presentations emphasized the transformative power of philanthropy. CFTT CEO Charity Field noted that in 2024, the foundation awarded over $377,000 in grants and scholarships, including $182,000 to 104 students, and shared plans for the Tioga County Community Impact Fund to support emerging community needs. Erin Cook, Director of the Knoxville Public Library, highlighted how CFTT grants have enhanced programs, technology, and accessibility for patrons of all ages. Michael Hanawalt of Tri-County Rural Electric Cooperative spoke about the Tri-County Rural Electric Scholarship, helping local students pursue trade education and return to strengthen the local workforce.
Attendees also participated in a raffle, awarding $500 grants to three local nonprofits: the Knoxville Public Library, Northern Tier Recreation Authority, and the John F. Bush Scholarship Award.
CFTT Tioga County Advisory Member Melissa Sentiff closed the evening with a reminder of the lasting impact of community generosity: like planting a seed, even small acts of giving can grow into enduring benefits for future generations, creating hope, opportunity, and a stronger community for all.
About the Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers
Founded in 2003, the Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers serves 5 counties, Bradford, Potter, Sullivan and Tioga County, PA and Tioga County, New York. The Foundation is committed to building philanthropic resources that will sustain healthy and vital communities now and into the future. The Foundation currently manages over 170 funds valued at $15 million dollars and has awarded over $2.3 million in grants and scholarships since inception, positively impacting hundreds of lives in the region.
For more information on its work in the community contact Joselyn Allen-Elford at 570.888.4759, by email at jallenelford@twintierscf.org and www.twintierscf.org.
Contact: Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers
Joselyn Allen-Elford
Resource Development Associate
570-888-4759
jallenelford@twintierscf.org