The McKean County Community Foundation is pleased to announce that the 2026 grant cycle for the Joe DeMott Port Allegany Community Development Fund will open July 1, 2026

Established in 2018 by Joe and Sue DeMott, the fund was created to benefit the Port Allegany community for generations to come. Following Joe's passing in December 2020, the fund was renamed in his honor, ensuring that his legacy of service and commitment to the community continues through annual grantmaking.

The fund is guided by an advisory committee made up of individuals with strong ties to the Port Allegany area who share Joe's passion for community improvement. Their goal is to support projects that enhance the quality of life for local residents and preserve Joe's vision of giving back to the community he loved.

Eligible nonprofit organizations, schools, municipalities, and community groups serving the Port Allegany area are encouraged to apply. Grant applications are now online and will be accepted from July 1 through July 31, 2026. Organizations interested in applying can find grant guidelines, eligibility requirements, and application instructions at www.mckeancountyfoundation.org.

"Joe devoted his life to serving Port Allegany and improving the community for others," said Tiffany Boschert, Executive Director of the Community Foundation of the Northern Alleghenies. "The fund he and Sue established continues to support the community he loved while creating opportunities for future generations. As we open this year's grant cycle, we encourage organizations serving Port Allegany to learn more about the fund and apply for funding that can make a meaningful impact in our community."

Joe's impact on the community was extensive. He spent 38 years serving residents as a pharmacist and businessman and dedicated countless hours to public service. Throughout his lifetime, he served as Mayor of Port Allegany, a McKean County Commissioner, a member of Port Allegany Borough Council, and an active participant in Rotary and numerous community organizations. He was also an Eagle Scout, a veteran of the Army National Guard, and a founding board member of the McKean County Community Foundation.

Joe played a vital role in establishing and developing the McKean County Community Foundation and served on the board of its parent organization, the Community Foundation of the Northern Alleghenies. His vision was to create lasting opportunities that would strengthen communities long into the future.

Today, the Joe DeMott Port Allegany Community Development Fund continues that vision by supporting nonprofit organizations and community initiatives that improve the quality of life for Port Allegany residents.

Community members, businesses, and former residents who would like to honor Joe's vision for Port Allegany may also contribute to the Joe DeMott Port Allegany Community Development Fund. Gifts help ensure the fund can continue supporting local projects and organizations for years to come.

Donations can be made online at www.mckeancountyfoundation.org by clicking the "Donate Now" button. Checks should be made payable to the McKean County Community Foundation and mailed to MMCF, P.O. Box 708, Bradford, PA 16701. Please include the fund name in the memo line.

The McKean County Community Foundation is an affiliate of the Community Foundation of the Northern Alleghenies. Through charitable funds established by generous donors, the Foundation supports local communities through grants, scholarships, and charitable initiatives that improve the quality of life throughout the region.

For more information, contact the Community Foundation at 814-834-2125.