2025 IMPACT REPORT STORY

The golden anniversary celebration began early with the unprecedented gift of a building just as 2024 came to a close. Ascend Bank (formerly GSB) provided TGF with office space at 44 Boston Street for two decades. In recalibrating its own space needs, Ascend offered the building to TGF, creating both an opportunity and a challenge for the foundation on the threshold of its 50th anniversary. An opportunity because the gift provides TGF a bedrock for the future. A challenge because the historic house needed some work. 

Behind the scenes, Executive Director Liza Petra and longtime supporter Andy Eder gathered a few steadfast supporters who collectively committed to funding over $230,000 worth of renovations to the historic house near the center of the Guilford Town Green. Their quick action allowed TGF to move in and focus on the milestone year’s celebrations and goals in a more effective space.

Not surprisingly, the mood was festive at The Marketplace in March when board members, staff, donors, and recipients gathered to kick off the year with a history lesson and a challenge. Recalling the seven visionaries who set out in 1975 to improve the quality of life in Guilford with $300 and three trees, the opening celebration also looked to the future, aiming to raise $500,000 to honor 50 years.

Throughout the year, TGF continued to engage the community to support its mission. News articles about outgoing chairman Alex Sulpasso and incoming chairman Christopher Hodgson, as well as letters to the editor in the local media, reminded residents of the powerful impact of connecting generous donors with worthy causes. 

September brought a whimsical reminder of TGF’s mission to improve the Green when The Guilford Penguin Project’s installation, dubbed “Bearly Autumn,” revealed a collection of cutout bears that inspired smiles and selfies. TGF became the beneficiary when the bears were auctioned off at the end of the exhibit.

Dozens of supporters gathered in November for the 50 & Forward celebration, an evening of local food, extraordinary performances, congenial conversation, and the WAVE gelato truck at the Guilford Yacht Club. The following day, a tree was installed on the green to mark the 50th anniversary of the first tree planting. 

As the sun set on the anniversary year, TGF exceeded its initial fundraising goal, raising more than $960,000 to help ensure another 50 years and beyond of making a positive impact on the Guilford community.