When Nick Strimbu, Jr. died on December 4, 1989, the family thought it would be appropriate to establish a trust fund in his memory. The initial idea was for memorial contributions to be distributed amongst the many charities Nick supported during his lifetime. The outpouring of contributions was overwhelming cumulating over $67,000 in the first few months after his death. Prior to the monies being dissipated, the family was approached by several of Nick’s close friends requesting that a permanent memorial fund be established. These friends formed the Strimbu Memorial Fund Board of Directors. On December 28, 1990, the Strimbu Memorial Fund became part of the Shenango Valley Foundation.
Since that time, the Strimbu Memorial Fund has raised millions of dollars and has grown to over
$1,672,023.48 in assets. The fund has also provided over $1,588,417.00 in scholarships and support for a variety
of economic development and charitable causes.
The mission of the fund is stated elsewhere on this website, but paraphrased is as follows: Lend help, wherever help is needed. |
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The fund annually grants (10) $1,000 and (1) $10,000 college scholarships to local high school seniors planning to further their education. Leadership and self-reliance are the two most important criteria that are required, in order to receive one of these scholarships. These requirements were established to mirror the example that Nick demonstrated during his lifetime. Our philosophy is simple. One of the most substantial ways to enhance our community’s future is to help educate the young people who will be the leaders of tomorrow.
Each May the Strimbu Memorial Fund holds its Strimbu Memorial Fund Annual Bar-B-Que that has enabled us to perpetuate
Mr. Strimbu’s legacy. The event hosts 1,600 of the surrounding communities’ finest citizens. The Bar-B-Que
features live music, the Leader Scholarship Award presentation and a silent and live auction, filled with unique
items. The food is professionally prepared and reminiscent of a full scale Texas Bar-B-Que complete with a variety
of spit cooked meats, six foot diameter paella skillets and many more scrumptious items. One of Mr. Strimbu’s
philosophies was that a guest should never leave thirsty or hungry. We try to uphold his philosophy in a big way.
The event has sold out every year since its inception and last year netted over
$119,889.00 in proceeds. The key to
the success of the fund raiser is attributable to the participation of all the attendees. Ticket distribution, planning of
food, cocktails, and entertainment, as well as acquisition of auction items are a few of the essential ingredients that
are given the utmost attention. We believe an event will be successful only if its participants have an exceptional,
positive experience.
The Strimbu Memorial Fund endeavors to make a noticeable impact on the quality of life within our geographic footprint and beyond. Our funding of key economic initiatives will enhance employment opportunities in our region. Our assistance to agencies and individuals in need will help people with a hand up, not a hand out. Support from members of the community, by attending our fundraisers, plays a crucial role in perpetuating the mission. |
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