Cass County Community Foundation

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Cass County Community Foundation Awards Richard Copeland 2019 Richard W Cassidy Jr. “Thanks for Giving” Award and announces $5,000 Grant to the Cass County Historical Society in honor of Copeland

Last Updated on November 9, 2019 by Cass County Community Foundation

A renaissance man, mentor, historian, pianist, teacher, friend, devoted husband, father and volunteer; these are a few of the words used to describe Richard Copeland Friday night at the Cass County Community Foundation’s “Thanks for Giving” celebration, a donor and volunteer recognition event. The event was held to honor longtime Cass county resident, Richard Copeland for his unselfish generosity over a lifetime of volunteering to make Cass county a great place to live. In recognition of his uncommon achievements and outstanding community volunteerism, Copeland received the Richard Cassady Jr. “Thanks for Giving” Award.

The award is given to an individual or individuals, who through their unselfish and outstanding commitment of time, talent and treasure, embodies the CCCF spirit of giving. When announcing the award, Deanna Crispen, CCCF president said, “Richard has spent his entire life along the banks of the Wabash, growing up in Posey County, going to college at Indiana State and teaching at Washington Elementary with the river right outside his window. While he has lived many places, Logansport is home and where he has shared his incredible time, talents and treasure. His passion and zest for life and our community are as strong today as they were when he started his teaching career here.”

Several testimonials were shared highlighting the impact of Copeland’s lifelong service. Speakers included CCCF Board members Bud Reed, also a historical society board member with Copeland; Elizabeth Billman, a student teacher under Copeland’s watchful eye, Barrie McClain a fellow teacher, Sue Ridlen, a political and historical colleague, and Mike Shannon, a historical society and All-Saints church member with Copeland. Also sharing their stories about Copeland were Paul Ulerick, Historical Society Board, and Mayor Dave Kitchell who proclaimed Friday, Richard Copeland Day in Logansport.

CCCF Board Chair Lucy Burns presented the crystal award to Copeland, pointing out that it is not awarded every year and that his name would be permanently displayed on the “Thanks for Giving Plaque at the CCCF office. In accepting the award, Copeland shared, “I didn’t do anything for myself; I just did for those around me. My students were like my kids, and they still are my kids today. Eileen and I had the opportunity to travel all over the world but this home. I love Logansport.”

As a final surprise for Copeland, Tim Rich CCCF grants chairman, announced he had tried to telegram and connect with several local historical figures from the past such as general John Wilkinson and General John Tipton to find one more way to honor Copeland. As the room filled with laughter, Rich announced the foundation was awarding a $5,000 grant to the Cass County Historical Society in honor of Richard Copeland and his numerous contributions to the community.

Copeland once again shared his love for Cass County and Logansport and how important the evening had been for him.

For more information about the award or grants, call CCCF at 574-722-2200

SOURCE: News release from Cass County Community Foundation

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