Hudson Community Foundation recognizes local philanthropists

In honor of National Philanthropy Day on Nov. 15, Hudson Community Foundation saluted two local couples – Benjamin and Lindsay Baran and Sean and Nancy Ward – for their charitable work, the foundation said in a press release.

“A vibrant community like Hudson thrives on the generosity of so many people who give their time, share their resources, and offer their leadership for the greater good. The Barans and the Wards are just two examples of those who reach out enthusiastically to help their neighbors and create positive change,” said HCF President Amy Jordan. “We are highlighting them this year because they inspire others who come forward to make Hudson a better place.” 

HCF awarded the Barans its Volunteerism Award for their encouraging volunteerism. The couple created the annual Vincent William Baran Day of Service, a catalyst for hundreds of people to serve and support nonprofit organizations throughout Northeast Ohio in conjunction with the Vincent William Baran Charitable Fund at HCF. This series of community projects is conducted each September in memory of their 7-year-old son Vinny who died tragically in November 2020 after being struck by a car.

Sean and Nancy Ward focus their charitable giving on social services, education and conservation.

In the first two days of service, conducted in 2021 and 2022, 783 volunteers performed 1,929 hours of service at more than 20 nonprofit organizations, the release stated. Approximately 700 total people have participated in the Hudson Friends of the Poor Walk across both years, which raised approximately $25,000 for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. Those funds directly support programs and assistance to a catalyst those in need throughout our region.

The Wards received the HCF Philanthropy Award for their sustained and strategic legacy of charitable giving over four years through The Sean and Nancy Ward Charitable Foundation at HCF.

The couple uses their Donor Advised as a charitable savings vehicle and to have access to funds when needs present themselves, according to the release. Their giving is focused on social services, education and the development and preservation of parks and natural resources. ∞

Featured Photo: To honor their late son, Benjamin and Lindsay Baran established and organize an annual day of service, which has resulted in nearly 2,000 hours of service by more than 780 volunteers.