What We Do
The Metzenbaum Foundation was established with donations from the estates of Harvey J. Dick and Irene Trask and by passionate family members who recognized the need for and importance of financial support for the developmentally disabled in Geauga County. For over 15 years, The Metzenbaum Foundation has committed to improving the quality of life for individuals and families impacted by developmental disabilities through grants, community awareness and integrated opportunities.
Our Work
The work of The Metzenbaum Foundation supports individuals with life altering challenges including:
- Behavior Disorders
- Autism
- Intellectual Disorders
- Cerebral Palsy
- Downs Syndrome
- and more
Yearly, The Metzenbaum Foundation awards approximately $30,000 in grants from our endowment and serves over 300 individuals through programming.
Board of Trustees
Dennis Schmidt, Chair
Ted Gedeon, Vice-Chair
Jim Janson, Treasurer
Leslie Galicki
Jeff Mackey
Tom O’Brien
Steve Oznowich
Gary Sigman
Wally Waldbauer
Nanette Warholic
The Metzenbaum Foundation Board of Trustees, community volunteers and clients installed Therapeutic Raised Garden Beds at six Geauga County Supported Living Homes. Yearly, the raised gardens are replenished with fresh growing materials and plants under the direction of board member Leslie Galicki. The clients and their providers tend to the gardens through the growing season and enjoy the fresh vegetables.
Our Team
Sally Biel Contizano
Executive Director
Bonnie Veleba
Recreation/Special Olympics
Marsha Marin
Community Connections and PR Coordinator
Josh Kain
Recreation/Special Olympics