(West Chester, PA – September 10, 2025): The Board of Directors of the Chester County Community Foundation invites the community to attend its 31st Annual Meeting on Monday, October 27, 2025, at Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center in West Chester.
Each year, the Community Foundation recognizes a Door Opener who champions legacy philanthropy. This year’s honoree is Joseph A. Bellinghieri Jr., Esq. of MacElree Harvey, who is celebrated for his leadership in establishing the Barber Family Legacy Fund with the late Sue Barber. The fund supports underprivileged children, at-risk youth, and individuals with special needs while promoting dignity and opportunity for all in memory of Sue’s son Barry.
The evening will also feature the presentation of the fourth annual Emeritus Honorable Dr. Clifford E. DeBaptiste Visionary Award to Anthony Stancato Jr., recognized for his transformative vision for downtown West Chester through strategic redevelopment and community investment. Established in 2022, the award honors community visionaries who inspire and uplift Chester County. Named for Emeritus Honorable Dr. Clifford E. DeBaptiste—West Chester’s first Black mayor and a pioneering leader in revitalizing downtown—the award reflects his lifelong commitment to “uplifting life through service.”
The Community Foundation will also honor Stanley’s Dream and highlight fund advisors Donna and Stan Edwards. They established the fund in 2004 in memory of their son, Stanley Edwards Jr., a bright and determined student whose life was cut short by brain cancer at 14 years old. Since its founding, Stanley’s Dream has awarded more than $110,000 in scholarships to local high school seniors pursuing college and contributed $140,000 to childhood brain cancer research, carrying forward Stanley’s legacy of hope, resilience, and determination.
Looking ahead to 2026, the meeting will also highlight the America 250 Friends at Chester County Community Foundation Fund, tied to the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary. This effort will engage Chester County in honoring the past, exploring our collective journey, and shaping a more inclusive future —through educational programs, storytelling, and community events.
The 31st Annual Meeting is free and open to the public. The program begins at 5:00 PM, with receptions before and after the event at 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM. RSVP: (610) 696-8211 | events@chescocf.org Details: chescocf.org/events/annmtg2025
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About the Chester County Community Foundation
Headquartered in West Chester’s Lincoln Building, the Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter so their legacy philanthropy makes a difference now and forever. The Community Foundation holds $136 million in trust and annually awards $6.6 million in grants and scholarships. To learn more about the Community Foundation, visit www.chescocf.org.
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