The Portage Foundation, a community-based charity organization, is kicking off its programming with an education series, pickleball fundraiser and scholarships available to Kent State students.

“We have something for everybody,” Heidi Johnson, the Portage Foundation’s community engagement manager, said.

According to Johnson, the foundation links resources from donors, individuals and non-profits to the Portage community.

Heading the foundation’s education series is Jack Alpern, an attorney and family wealth counselor. This free series will teach community members about the importance of estate planning and inheritance. 

Many families plan out their legacy in hopes to make a lasting impact on their future generations, however, the average inheritance is spent fully in 18 months, Alpern said. It’s important to the Portage Foundation for community members, young and old, to understand planning out a legacy. 

The series will start Feb. 11 from 6-8 p.m. located in Hobbs Hall at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Kent. 

The Portage Foundation is also hosting a pickleball fundraiser with catered food, raffles and games on March 1 at the Western Reserve Racquet and Fitness Club in Streetsboro. 

The fundraiser is open to all, including beginners, experienced players and spectators. Johnson said there is a tournament for serious players, “but if someone wants to come and just play for the fun of it,” they can also sign up for social play.

Johnson, who taught at Kent State for 19 years, also encouraged students to apply for the Portage Foundation’s college scholarships. 

“Kent State students should definitely look on our website for upcoming scholarship opportunities, because we are in the middle of our scholarship application season,” Johnson said. 

More information is available on Portage Foundation’s website, and the foundation hopes to see Kent students in the future.

Tanner Smith is a beat reporter. Contact him at [email protected].