The award is presented annually to a local philanthropist who has shown exceptional dedication to improving the community through time, talent, and treasure, according to Erin Clemons, the foundation’s president and CEO.
The McCloys, who have four children, focus their efforts of time, talent, and treasure on improving the lives of area neighbors living with disabilities.
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They got their start after their second child, Sam, now 22, was born with Down Syndrome, a moment Bill McCloy said was “probably the greatest and most scariest day of our life.”
Being introduced to the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati was the spark that ignited the couple’s philanthropic efforts, he said.
“Because we came from humble beginnings, I think we really didn’t know all of the need of all of the non-profits out there that are really in need out there,” Jenny McCloy said. “Having Sam was an introduction into that world.”
Jenny McCloy is a 20-year volunteer with organizations such as Melodic Connections, where she serves as board president, and ReelAbilities Cincinnati as Festival Chair.
Bill McCloy, who serves as chief strategic relations officer of CE Power, is board vice president of the Ken Anderson Alliance, an organization acting to create opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities. He is a past board member at Down Syndrome Association of Cincinnati.
The McCloys also support several local hospitals, parochial schools, and charitable organizations.
In addition, they are supporters of the Forever Fund Operating Endowment at the Community Foundation of West Chester/Liberty, and hold a philanthropic donor fund at the Foundation, as well.
Despite their generous giving, Bill McCloy said the couple never uses the word “philanthropist.”
“We knew that we had a responsibility to give back,” he said. “What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind? What do you want to teach your children? What kind of money do you want to leave behind? What are you going to do with your money?”
Patti Alderson, for whom the award in named, founded the Community Foundation of West Chester/Liberty 18 years ago. She said the McCloys are “amazing individuals and, as a couple, they’re a dynamo.”
“I was doing a little research on them and thought ‘Let’s see what they’ve give to,’” Alderson said. “It’s easier just to say ‘You name it, they’ve given to it.’ What a wonderful example they set in their lives … They’re just great people and good souls.”
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