Bridge Builders Community Foundations (BBCF) is proud to celebrate 50 years of inspiring generosity and building community. Established in 1975 as the Venango Area Community Foundation by a group of community leaders fronted by attorney Ben McFate, the Foundation began as a local repository for philanthropy. Its first major milestone came in 1977 when two sisters created the Harrington-Rew Fund with $80,000 in unrestricted gifts – now grown to nearly $200,000 and distributing 5% annually.

Today, BBCF manages $21.5 million in assets, with roughly one-third supporting scholarships. Most of the Foundation’s funds are “field of interest” funds, allowing donors to define the area of support, while a few are very specific—supporting unique causes like endangered turtles, bowling, or even first communion dresses.

Steve Kozak began leading the Foundation in 1985, guiding its expansion with a focus on addressing community needs. During his tenure, the Foundation began offering scholarships and brought in additional staff for administrative support. The longest-serving board member, Lynn McCaslin, has served for more than 20 years. Her brother, Kurt Lolley was the one of the first scholarship recipients.

By the early 2000s, the Foundation’s influence had extended beyond Venango County. Forest County became the first affiliate in 2007, followed by Clarion County, prompting a rebrand to Bridge Builders Community Foundations. Each affiliate now has its own local advisory committee to assist with community knowledge, grant and scholarship making, and advocacy.

In 2011, Trenton Moulin took the helm as President, following Kozak’s retirement. Under his leadership, the team expanded with Lauren Hart joining as Director of Finance in 2013 and Tessa King serving as Grants and Scholarship Manager. In 2024, the office relocated from Oil City to Franklin’s Elk Street, providing a more visible and accessible space to serve the community.

Trenton describes BBCF as the intersection of philanthropy and grant making, emphasizing that “even the smallest gifts can have long-lasting impact on individuals and the community at large.” He continues to advocate for impactful giving and currently serves on the board of the Pennsylvania Community Foundation Association.

As BBCF celebrates this milestone year, they invite the public to join their 50th Anniversary Golden Gala on September 27th at Cross Creek Resort featuring Keynote Speaker Charlie Batch. For more information or to reserve your seat, contact Bridge Builders Community Foundations and help celebrate five decades of building stronger communities together.

Congratulations to BBCF!

Click here to learn more about the Golden Gala