Our Family Tree
Learn about the generous donors who have established charitable funds through Stark Community Foundation.
Learn about meaningful traditions enjoyed by local families and organizations this time of year.
THE CAMP FAMILY
For more than 50 years, Jim and Cincy Camp and their family have used the same recipe for Thanksgiving cranberry orange relish. When the children and grandchildren are old enough, they are allowed to use the family's four-generations-old hand grinder to grind a bag of cranberries and oranges. Guests or new family members take part in the tradition by ceremoniously having the first taste before the sugar is added, and the unexpected tartness often provides a good laugh. The Camps also participate in holiday ministries through Christ Presbyterian Church, including ringing The Salvation Army donation bell.
THE GOLDEN KEY CENTER FOR EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN
For many years, The Golden Key has hosted a Polar Express-themed holiday sing performance where students in each grade sing holiday songs in front of an audience of family and friends. Students and staff wear pajamas for the day and enjoy movies, hot chocolate and holiday surprises. When guests were limited for in-person activities due to the pandemic, The Golden Key continued the special tradition of Polar Express day by recording each class performance and sharing it with the grade’s virtual classroom. Students were able to safely experience the performance side of the tradition, and they enjoyed the day celebrating with their classmates.
JOSETTE BEDDELL MEMORIAL FOUNDATION
One of the ways Josette Beddell's family celebrates the holidays is with an annual baking contest. As a family, they describe themselves as naturally competitive— especially in the kitchen. Each year, a different category of baked goods is chosen, recent years being pies and loaves of bread. Both the adults and children bake a contest entry, and everyone votes for their favorite. The winner receives a prize, but no reward matches the pride that comes along with winning!
THE VARIAN FAMILY
The Varian family's holiday traditions center around family, friends and the three generations living on their East Canton farm, Varian Orchards. Outside activities enjoyed on the farm include sled riding, building snowmen and cutting down their own Christmas trees. Indoors, the Varians enjoy activities like playing games, building projects and baking cookies together. The Varians also enjoy participating in their churches' holiday music programs and are hosts to many friends who join in on their holiday festivities