Defiance Area Foundation- Together We Can Build a Legacy of Generosity in Defiance County

Together We Can Build a Legacy of Generosity

Our Impact In Defiance County

At Defiance Area Foundation (DAF), we are dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals and families across our community. As a trusted nonprofit organization, we work closely with donors, nonprofits, and local leaders to support initiatives that create lasting impact. Whether it’s funding scholarships, enhancing community programs, or building partnerships, our mission is simple: to strengthen and inspire Defiance County through generosity and collaboration.

Community Initiatives

DAF strengthens Defiance County through initiatives like Clothes for Kids, providing school essentials to children in need; Women’s Giving Circle, supporting programs for women and children; Sherwood & Hicksville Community Funds, enhancing local projects; Piggy Bank Philanthropy, inspiring youth giving; and Project 2030, a $500,000 community-driven initiative.

Grant Making

Defiance College Disc Golf Grant Approved

DAF enriches Defiance County by awarding grants twice annually to local charitable organizations. These grants support diverse programs in education, social services, health, community affairs, animal welfare, and the arts. Applications are due by March 31 and September 30 each year. Since its inception, DAF has distributed nearly nine million dollars to enhance the quality of life in the area.

Scholarships

DAF administers over 25 scholarship funds to support Defiance County students pursuing higher education. These scholarships cater to various academic interests and personal backgrounds, with applications typically due by March 31 each year. For detailed information on eligibility criteria and application procedures, please visit our scholarships page.

$16,382,465

$880,552

254 $1,269,106

Total Assets

Grants Gifted

Grants to 104 Organizations

Donations Received

About Us

At the Defiance Area Foundation, we bring together local donors, nonprofits, and community leaders to strengthen and enrich Defiance County for generations to come. Rooted in collaboration and guided by a passionate board and staff, we support meaningful initiatives — from scholarships and community programs to long-term investments that reflect the values of those who live here. Together, we’re building a legacy of generosity, trust, and impact.

LEARN MORE

The Voice of Our Supporters

"I am a life-long resident of Defiance and have several ancestors who came to this area in the mid-nineteenth century. They brough their children, parents and even grandparents to make a life here. I wonder if they thought about how their labors and contributions would shape their community and the lives of their families and their descendants. I support Project 2030 so I can be a part of shaping our community for the benefit of today's families and future generations."

Laura ConnorProject 2030 Member

"Our Defiance community is very generous, and it's that collective generosity that helps make a profoundly positive impact in our area. My parents were proud to be a part of the Defiance Area Foundation, and Mike and I, and our families, are proud to continue in that tradition."

Laurie McCannDAF Member

"Education has always been a priority for us, as we believe it is essential for health and happiness. We hope our grandchildren will benefit from the opportunities made possible through our contributions to the Defiance City School Fund and Project 2030 Fund."

Chris OberlinDonor

"Education is important to the development of all students' learning and future success. A gift to the Defiance Area Foundation to support the Defiance City School Fund, in honor of our children, seemed like a good way for our family to give back to the community in honor of our own family. We want to encourage everyone to strive for excellence and giving back to support education and in our local community."

Melissa MortonDonor

"Mandi Kissner and Katie Groff-Held are the ultimate hometown supporters. A gift in their honor seemed a fitting tribute to recognize their love for Defiance and the people and organizations that make it home."

Traci FloryDonor

"Jeff and I are members of the Defiance Area Foundation to support the community. It is important to give back and support the Defiance area and help make it a wonderful place to live and raise a family."

Jeff and Sue StrausbaughDAF Members

"We want to get more people involved in the Hicksville Community. We continue to have on-going needs and creating the Hicksville Community Fund in 2011 has allowed us to address some of those needs."

Jim and Karen SchmidtDAF Members

"The Defiance Community Cultural Council wishes to thank The Defiance Area Foundation for your belief in what we do for the community and how you support that effort."

Roger FisherPast Community Partner

"If you're looking for a simple way to make a big impact (reoccurring giving), this is it!"