CEO at the Van Wert County Foundation
Seth is the leader of The Van Wert County Foundation and has an impressive list of credentials. He has worked in economic development, downtown revitalization, and community planning. He continues to work on his family farm where he is knowledgeable about local agricultural practices.
Local foundations can play a powerful role in transforming historic buildings and catalyzing broader community revitalization. This panel brings together leaders from three community foundations to explore how local philanthropy can help move challenging preservation and redevelopment projects from vision to reality. Panelists will discuss what foundations look for when evaluating projects, the community priorities and donor motivations that shape their funding decisions, and the different ways philanthropic resources can be deployed—from grants and capital investments to partnerships that help leverage additional public and private investment. Through examples of significant historic building rehabilitation projects in their communities, panelists will examine how an initial foundation investment can build momentum, attract additional resources, and spark subsequent redevelopment in surrounding downtowns. The conversation will offer practical insight into how preservation advocates, developers, municipalities, and community organizations can engage local foundations and position historic rehabilitation projects as opportunities for broader economic and community impact.
Come ready to share stories, passion, and pathways to the redevelopment of downtowns across Ohio. Together, we’ll explore: • The economic development tools shaping our cities • The critical role of public–private partnerships • The architectural significance of our historic fabric • How vision and strategy come together to overcome today’s marketplace challenges in construction, commercial leasing, and retail. This is your chance to connect with fellow leaders, exchange ideas, and be inspired by the bold work of revitalizing Ohio’s urban cores. Bring your insights, your questions, and your vision for the future. Ticketed Event. This session has been approved for 2.00 AIA LU credit.