Strong communities don’t happen by chance. They’re built through partnerships, generosity, and people who believe in investing in the place they call home. That’s the mission behind the Harrison County Community Fund, an affiliate of the Bluegrass Community Foundation.
“Our mission is to create opportunities, solve local challenges, and improve the quality of life for everyone in Cynthiana-Harrison County,” said Jacquelyn Burrell, a member of the Harrison County Community Fund Board. “The Fund was established to be a source of community funding to meet needs that typically cannot be fully addressed through traditional means like taxes or city-county government budgets.”
As an endowed community fund, donations continue working for Harrison County long after they are made. The principal remains invested, allowing the Fund to provide lasting support for projects and initiatives that strengthen the community for generations to come.
That long-term vision has helped make a lasting impact across Harrison County. Over the years, the Fund has supported a variety of initiatives, including lighting for the walking trail at Flat Run Veterans Park, a one-time grant for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, a matching fundraising campaign to assist local businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, and partnerships that have contributed to downtown revitalization through public art, the Pocket Park, and the downtown sound system. The diversity of these projects reflects the Fund’s commitment to responding to the community’s changing needs and opportunities.
Looking ahead, the Board recognizes that Harrison County faces many of the same challenges as communities across Kentucky, including expanding access to healthcare services for vulnerable residents. Through partnerships with organizations such as Harrison Memorial Hospital’s Care-A-Van transportation program, the Fund continues exploring ways to help remove barriers to essential care while supporting the county’s continued growth and well-being.
For Burrell, serving on the Board has also been an opportunity to help shape the future of a community she has called home for more than two decades.
“When I joined the HCCF Board, I had lived in Harrison County for over 20 years and was excited about the efforts to re-invent Cynthiana in some respects,” Burrell said. “I wanted to be a part of this new vision and see the community thrive.”
The Harrison County Community Fund also hopes to dispel the misconception that philanthropy is only for major donors. In reality, the Fund grows through the collective generosity of community members. Whether through a monthly contribution, an annual gift, or a one-time donation, every dollar strengthens the endowment and helps ensure those gifts continue benefiting Harrison County well into the future.
But for Burrell, the Fund’s future isn’t measured solely by dollars raised- it’s measured by relationships built throughout the community.
“Donations are always welcome,” Burrell said. “However, what’s most important is making sure we are visible as not only a funding source but a community partner. We want to hear from you, Harrison County! We’re embarking on a campaign to increase awareness of the Fund and assess where we can do the most good.”
As the Harrison County Community Fund looks toward the future, its focus is on listening to residents, strengthening partnerships, and identifying where it can make the greatest impact. From supporting community improvements and local nonprofits to investing in projects that enhance quality of life, the Fund hopes to continue serving as a trusted resource for years to come.
Whether you have an idea for a community project, are interested in partnering with the Fund, or simply want to learn more about its mission, the Board encourages residents to connect and be part of the conversation. Together, those partnerships can help shape an even stronger Harrison County.