It all started with a single turkey. The bird was given to Harrison Mayor Clyde Small, who didn’t need it, so he gave it to Fred Dole, co-owner of the Whitewater Market on the corner at 102 Harrison Avenue. There, Mr. Dole cut the turkey in half to feed two families in need. Sixty years later, that tradition of giving—now established as the Harrison Mayor’s Fund—continues in the same location and throughout the City.
Today that space is occupied by 1860 Taproom & Bottleshop, where customers can round up their tab to donate to the Mayor’s Fund. The shop will also feature the Mayor’s Fund in its CommUNITY tap handle on Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 11, 18, and 25, 2020. On those dates, a portion of proceeds from a designated beer will be donated to the Fund.
The Harrison Mayor’s Fund is a charitable organization dedicated to helping those in need of financial assistance in the greater Harrison community. It is run by community volunteers, with Councilwoman Jean Wilson currently serving as president of the organization. Over the years, local businesses including JTM Food Group and Remke Markets, and organizations such as American Legion Post 199, have contributed.
“Harrison is a great community to live and work in,” Wilson said. “There are so many caring people willing to take extra steps to help neighbors when they are in need.”
Today, the Mayor’s Fund helps the community in three key ways.
- The Mayor’s Fund is always available to provide a hand up for local families in a time of crisis. The Fund provides thousands of dollars’ worth of grocery vouchers, food pantry items, and assistance paying rent, utilities, or medical costs. This is conducted through the assistance of another local charity, Christ’s Loving Hands.
- During the holiday season, the Mayor’s Fund partners with local churches and schools to assist about 150 families with food, coats and even toys for young children.
- As budget allows, the Fund is providing scholarships for graduating seniors who have been involved in City recreation events or Mayor’s Fund activities.
Contributing to the Mayor’s Fund
The Mayor’s Fund raises money throughout the year at various festivals and events, but the most important fundraiser has been a golf outing in September. Due to COVID-19, the board is determining whether to conduct the event. If you would like to contribute financially to the Mayor’s Fund, you can mail a check payable to Harrison Mayor’s Fund, to PO Box 471, Harrison, OH 45030. If you are interested in volunteering with the Mayor’s Fund, contact Jean Wilson at (513) 708-1969.
