Angels Camp, CA…Long-time Calaveras resident, Merita Callaway, was recently welcomed to the Calaveras Community Foundation (CCF) Board of Directors. Merita has lived in Calaveras County for over 28 years and is, probably, best known as the 2nd longest serving member of the Board of Supervisors. She represented District 3 from 1993-2014. She is a graduate of the University of San Francisco with a Secondary Teaching Credential. Prior to the Board of Supervisors, she was the PG&E Mother Lode Manager. A well-respected county resident, Merita is a member of several community groups: Advisory Member of the Calaveras Big Trees Association, Sierra-Nevada Logging Museum, Murphys Community Club, Calaveras Grown and Calaveras Humane Society to name a few. Merita’s daughter, a graduate of Bret Harte High School, lives in the Bay Area.

As a past small business owner in Amador County and a Community College Business instructor, Merita understands the difficulties many non-profit groups face in fund raising and bringing worthwhile projects to fruition.

Merita states: “I have been supportive of the goals of the Calaveras Community Foundation since its inception in 2000. Being a grass roots group that supports individual and non-profit organizations in our county, it exemplifies what being a community is about. I look forward to working with the dedicated volunteers who manage the Foundation. Over the years, I have recommended CCF to people who want to donate to community groups through a 501(c)(3) entity, establish a donor advised fund or look for funding opportunities for projects. It is local; the funds collected stay in Calaveras County.”

Merita hit the road running and brought to the Foundation’s attention a need that was ultimately filled for the Animal Scapes project from the Calaveras Arts Council. President Linda Kangeter says: “The Foundation is excited to have Merita join our Board. Her years of experience in County government and her knowledge of District 3 will help our efforts to support projects that improve the lives of residents in all parts of our County. Welcome Merita! “

Calaveras Community Foundation is very proud of what has been accomplished since its founding in 2000. Celebrating its 15th year, CCF manages over 45 charitable funds and fiscal scholarships. As of June 15, 2015, more than $1,000,000 has been distributed in scholarships, competitive grants and assistance. Students have been helped to pursue their educational dreams. Other funds have gone to support a wide range of projects to improve the quality of life from one end of our County to another.

For more information about CCF, or to make a donation, please call (209) 736-1845 or visit its website www.calaverascommunityfoundation.org.