Philomath Community Foundation tells council its endowment has grown to roughly $1.4 million; announces four‑year scholarship

The Philomath Community Foundation updated the city council on its work and local impact during a scheduled presentation Monday night.

Brad Pankallen, a member of the foundation board, said the group has focused on philanthropy, stewardship, integrity and leadership and now manages roughly $1.4 million in assets that generate grants and scholarships for the greater Philomath community. "Here we are 26 years later, and we have $1,400,000," Pankallen said, summarizing the foundation’s growth from seed money.

The foundation distributes funds to youth programs, family and community services, arts and economic development. Pankallen said the foundation gave about $31,000 in 2023 and about $42,000 in 2024, and expects to award more in 2025 thanks in part to a new four‑year Plymouth Forward Scholarship created to make multi‑year awards more common. He described the scholarship as $1,500 per year for four years, totaling $6,000 for one student.

Council members praised the foundation’s stewardship and suggested ways the city could help raise awareness, including having materials available at community events such as the farmers market and the rodeo. Councilor Irwin, the council liaison who attends foundation meetings, described the organization’s approach as "patient, methodical" and community‑focused.

Pankallen asked the council and the public to spread the word about giving options, including estate gifts and named endowments, to help the foundation continue to expand local grantmaking and scholarships.