BGSU Alumnus Donates $1 Million to Advance Student Experience
Bowling Green State University alumnus Rodney J. Rupp, Class of ’73. has committed $1 million to elevate academic and athletic opportunities for students. His gift supports major upgrades to Steller Field and launches the Rodney J. and Suzanne R. Rupp Experiential Learning Fund, enriching business students specializing in insurance and risk management. A longtime supporter of Falcon athletics, Rupp was inspired by BGSU’s momentum and conversations with leaders and athletes. His donation reflects a deep belief in giving back and the desire to impact future generations.
Zepf Center’s Safety Net Shelter Receives $30,000 Grant
The Zepf Center has been awarded a $30,000 grant from the Oswald Supporting Organization of the Greater Toledo Community Foundation to support its Safety Net program—the only shelter in Northwest Ohio serving runaway and homeless youth. Operating 24/7 year-round, Safety Net provides emergency shelter, counseling and a drop-in center for youth ages 12–21. The grant arrives during Mental Health Awareness Month and will help sustain vital services offering safety, support and hope to hundreds of local youth. zepfcenter.org/landing/donate.
Buckeye Wheelchair Games Funded by Reeve Foundation Grant
Paralyzed Veterans of America Buckeye Chapter received a $14,599 Quality of Life grant from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation to support the 14th annual Buckeye Wheelchair Games. Held in April in Geneva, Ohio, east of Cleveland, the event welcomed over 50 athletes for a weekend of adaptive sports. The grant, part of the Reeve Foundation’s National Paralysis Resource Center initiative, helps empower individuals living with paralysis through sport, accessibility and inclusion. www.buckeyepva.org, www.christopherreeve.org
Eldred Foundation Awards $2.1M to Strengthen NW Ohio
The John Henry Eldred Jr. Foundation awarded over $2.1 million in grants to 87 nonprofits across 12 Northwest Ohio counties. Funding supports youth education, housing stability and food security—key focus areas of the Foundation’s mission. Standout grantees include Urban Wholistics, Hope House in Findlay, TARTA’s Youth Summer Blast Pass and a literacy pilot program at Reynolds Elementary. With 23% of the grant funds supporting rural communities, the Foundation expands equitable access to resources across the region. jhefoundation.org.
WGTE Wins Bronze Telly Award for “ Magic of the Old West End”
WGTE Public Media’s Toledo Stories: Magic of the Old West End has earned a Bronze Telly Award, honoring the documentary’s powerful tribute to one of Toledo’s most cherished neighborhoods. Premiering in summer 2024, the film explores the Old West End’s architectural beauty, vibrant community spirit, and historic resilience. Produced by Shane Potgieter, the documentary captures how residents have preserved this iconic neighborhood through unity and activism. The Telly Awards recognize excellence in video and television across all screens. wgte.org.
