WILLIAMSPORT, PA — The First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania (FCFP) is inviting residents from across the region to play a hands-on role in local philanthropy through its Community Grant Panels. This initiative is part of FCFP’s 110th birthday celebration—“110 Years Bright”—marking more than a century of philanthropy, partnership, and community impact across North Central Pennsylvania.
As part of this milestone year, FCFP is expanding opportunities for community members to directly participate in the grantmaking process by helping review applications and recommend funding for the Foundation’s 110th Community Grants.
“We’re excited to invite more voices into this process during such a meaningful year for our organization,” said Erin Ruhl, Director of Community Engagement. “For 110 years, our work has been shaped by the generosity and insight of our community. These panels continue that tradition by bringing people together to help guide thoughtful, inclusive grantmaking.”
FCFP will select two Community Grant Panels, including 110 residents from Lycoming County and 110 residents from across Montour, Northumberland, Snyder, and Union Counties. Panelists will hear presentations from local nonprofits and help determine which projects will receive one of two $110,000 grants.
FCFP is seeking individuals from all backgrounds, sixteen years or older, who are interested in learning more about community needs and contributing to meaningful local impact. No prior grantmaking experience is required. Selected panelists must be available on October 13 and October 15, 2026, for in person nonprofit presentations. The deadline for applying is June 30, 2026.
If the number of applicants exceeds available spots, panelists will be selected through a random drawing to ensure a fair and unbiased process. Every application is valued and considered equally, with the goal of assembling panels that reflect a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints from across the region.
Ruhl added, “As we celebrate 110 years bright, we invite you to be a bright part of what’s next. Become a grant panelist—review, discuss, and decide—and help award $110,000 while shaping the future of our communities.”
Apply to serve on a Community Grant Panel:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe9GKJbVxpFnd9s27_ySbDoDIzl-K-
qG2XLLmYkpdj_mIEsvQ/viewform .
The Community Grant Panels are one of several special initiatives taking place during FCFP’s 110th birthday year. Under the theme “110 Years Bright,” the Foundation is celebrating its legacy while looking ahead continuing to invest in programs and partnerships that strengthen communities and improve quality of life throughout the region. For more information about FCFP’s 110th birthday, fundraising initiatives, and grant opportunities, visit www.fcfpartnership.org/110-years .
The First Community Foundation Partnership of Pennsylvania works to improve the quality of life in
North Central Pennsylvania through community leadership, the promotion of philanthropy, the strengthening of nonprofit impact, and the perpetual stewardship of charitable assets. FCFP strives to create powerful communities through passionate giving.
