The Spirit of Giving grant program is a philanthropic initiative led by The PM Company and administered through the Parkersburg Area Community Foundation and Regional Affiliates (PACF). Established in 2011 by Pat Minnite, Sr., the Spirit of Giving Fund was created to uplift communities in the Mid-Ohio Valley through strategic financial support to nonprofit organizations. The PM Company, a locally rooted business, emphasizes community betterment through this annual grantmaking process, highlighting its enduring commitment to regional well-being and the legacy of its founder.
The primary objective of the Spirit of Giving program is to strengthen nonprofit services and outreach in Wood County, West Virginia, and Washington County, Ohio. The grant supports organizations that deliver critical services, educational programs, and community initiatives. Every year, The PM Company and a network of local business partners and vendors pool donations into the fund, with The PM Company matching every contribution. This model has significantly amplified community impact over the years, resulting in over 300 grants totaling $916,000 since the fund's creation.
In 2024 alone, the program distributed $100,000 to seven nonprofit organizations. Grants are typically used to enhance program delivery, expand outreach, or bolster operational capacities. While the fund does not outline specific spending restrictions, its focus remains on supporting organizations with demonstrable impact within the targeted counties.
Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations that serve residents in Wood County, WV, and Washington County, OH. There is no mention of additional eligibility restrictions or specialized requirements such as fiscal sponsorships or exclusion of certain nonprofit types, but all applicants must clearly demonstrate their service impact within the defined geographic area.
Applications are submitted online via the Spirit of Giving Fund's dedicated webpage. The 2025 application window opened on July 23 and closes on August 30. The process does not mention any pre-application steps such as letters of intent or concept papers. Evaluation is handled by PACF in collaboration with The PM Company, and the review process aims to support organizations that align with the fund’s mission of community enhancement and sustained impact.
Key personnel involved in the program include Karmyn Conley, representing the Minnite family and The PM Company, and Amy Nahley, Senior Program Officer at PACF. Organizations seeking assistance or additional information can contact the foundation via phone at 304-428-4438 or email at [email protected]. Although the exact award notification or project period dates are not specified, the annual nature of the program suggests awards are typically announced after the close of the application window. The Spirit of Giving program operates on an annual cycle, encouraging recurring participation and ongoing support to regional nonprofits.
