HomeGrown Geauga 2026:
A Record-Breaking Celebration of Community Impact
HomeGrown Geauga 2026 was more than just a successful event. It was a powerful demonstration of what can happen when a community comes together to invest in its future.
“HomeGrown Geauga is so much more than a fundraiser. It is a powerful reflection of what makes this community special. To see hundreds of people come together alongside our sponsors, restaurants, donors, volunteers, Board and staff in support of GGP’s mission was truly incredible. Together, we didn’t just make this our most successful HomeGrown yet, we invested in opportunities for our young people, strengthened the connection between students and local employers, and helped prepare the workforce that will carry Geauga County into the future. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who believed in this event and in our mission. I can’t wait to see the impact we continue to make together.”
— Kimm Leininger, Ohio CED, President & CEO, Geauga Growth Partnership
This year’s event exceeded expectations across the board, generating more than $243,000 in support of Youth Workforce Development programs and creating opportunities that will help shape the next generation of talent in Geauga County. Total event proceeds increased by more than $10,000 over 2025, reflecting the growing commitment of local businesses, community leaders, and residents to this important mission.
The event’s momentum was evident in the strong support from our sponsors. Sponsorship participation grew from 46 sponsors in 2025 to 55 sponsors in 2026, highlighting increased business engagement and confidence in the impact of HomeGrown Geauga. We also welcomed more than 25 new donors, with total donations increasing by more than $7,000 compared to the previous year.
Beyond the impressive numbers, HomeGrown Geauga continues to serve as a platform for connection, collaboration, and community pride. The event brought together local businesses, educators, workforce partners, community leaders, and residents who share a common goal: strengthening opportunities for young people and building a vibrant future for Geauga County. Attendees enjoyed an evening that celebrated local flavors, community partnerships, and the shared belief that investing in youth today creates a stronger workforce and economy tomorrow.
The excitement and enthusiasm surrounding this year’s event were felt throughout the evening and reflected the deep commitment of the Geauga County community to supporting the next generation.
“HomeGrown Geauga was an incredible evening! The overwhelming support from our sponsors, donors, restaurants, volunteers, and guests demonstrated just how strongly our community believes in investing in the future of our young people. We are so grateful to everyone who helped make HomeGrown Geauga such a tremendous success and look forward to growing this tradition for years to come. Rooted in Tradition. Growing the Future.”
— Angie Rachuba, Director of Philanthropy, Geauga Growth Partnership
These achievements would not have been possible without the generosity of our sponsors, donors, volunteers, attendees, restaurants, and community partners. Your support is helping create meaningful pathways for youth to explore careers, develop workplace skills, and build successful futures right here in our community. Every sponsorship, donation, and volunteer contribution helps advance programs that connect students with local employers and equip young people with the skills and experiences needed to succeed.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to making HomeGrown Geauga 2026 our most successful event yet. Together, we are growing opportunities, strengthening our workforce, and investing in the future of Geauga County. We can’t wait for next year’s event as we continue to build on this momentum and expand opportunities for generations to come.
Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor : Great Lakes Cheese.
Thank you to participating restaurants:
