Supporting Non-Profits - Richland County Foundation

Osborne Meese Academy

Who is Osborne Meese?                                                                                             

Osborne Meese is considered the founding father of the Richland County Foundation. Along with six other businessmen in 1945 he established the Richland County Foundation after handling the payments to indigent individuals in Richland County through the Scattergood Fund for years. Osborne Meese had an admirable business ethic, strong community ties, excellent leadership ability, and foresight for Richland County.  The other founders include Robert B. Black, Scott F. Coffin, John H. Finefrock, George W. Stephens, Paul R. Tappan, and Norman L. Wolfe.

 What is the Osborne Meese Academy?

The Osborne Meese Academy (OMA) is a training program aimed at increasing the capacity of your nonprofit organization.  The Osborne Meese Academy was established out of a need within the community to build capacity, serve as an informational resource, and act as a catalyst to encourage stronger collaboration among nonprofit organizations.

How can my organization get involved?

We are making plans for 2025. The 2024 classes are underway.

What is the cost to participate?

The cost to participate is $250 per organization.

What are the expected outcomes of the program?

The goals of The Osborne Meese Academy are:

~Develop sustainable organizations to be ready to meet community needs
~Strengthen executive leaders and governing bodies
~Increase knowledge about and implementation of nonprofit governance and organizational effectiveness  

For more information call 419-525-3020 or email President and CEO Allie Watson awatson@rcfoundation.org