About Us/History
The Chenango Foundation is responsible for aiding research and development contributing to the community development of the Chenango County area. The Foundation also provides continued oversight and development of the Leadership Chenango program aimed at enhancing the development and skills of individuals to become future community and civic leaders.
History & Projects
The Chamber of Commerce-Chenango County Foundation, Inc. was officially renamed The Chenango Foundation, Inc. in November 1996. The Chenango Foundation was created to provide a vehicle for community development projects. Successful projects and efforts have included The Northeast Classic Car Museum, Colorscape Chenango and The Children’s Center.
The Northeast Classic Car Museum opened its doors in 1997 under the auspices of the Chenango Foundation. Sponsorship and project support was provided for the establishment of the tourist destination. In 1998, the NECCM received their 501c3 designation. Originally encompassing just one building and 50 cars on display, they currently have over 170+ vehicles on in 5 connected buildings. Informative videos, period fashions, and more enhance the Museum experience. In May of 2009, the Museum opened another 30,000 square feet of exhibit space. Approximately 16,000+ visitors from all across the country visit the museum on a yearly basis.
Colorscape Chenango Arts Festival is a juried outdoor exhibition of gallery quality fine arts crafts and music. The sponsors and participants are dedicated to providing an interactive atmosphere featuring artist demonstrations, educational activities for children and adults, live entertainment and quality food vendors. The Chenango Foundation provided sponsorship and project support from 1994 until the Festival received their 501c3 designation in 2000.
The Children’s Center, a state-of-the-art developmental and childcare center, was constructed in 1991 through a creative partnership with city government, Opportunities for Chenango and contributions from the business community and committed individuals. In January 1997, OFC decided not to renew their contract and the management and operation of the Center was temporarily transitioned to the Foundation. In 2003, Catholic Charities of Chenango County became the parent organization of the Center. Due to lack of a positive balance sheet, in 2011, the Children’s Center closed and the restricted funding was returned to the Chenango Foundation.
Other projects include: Oxford CSD – General Education work Experience & Career Exploration prgms; Common Sense Thrift Shop; Workforce Dev Initiative; and Mind Matters Neurofeedback Intervention Research Center.
The Chenango Foundation also continues to provide oversight and development of the Leadership Chenango program, initiated in 1989, aimed at enhancing the development and skills of individuals to become future community and civic leaders.
