The Gidieon Orion Cook Memorial Fund supports programs that meet the changing needs in our community.

Gidieon Orion Cook was a true free spirit. He enjoyed many things (like Vacation Bible School, swimming, collecting and trading Pokémon cards, building with LEGOs and more) but especially liked spending time with his family. He was active, care-free and people-oriented. “Gidieon was as perfect a son as anyone could ask for,” remembers Keri Cook, Gidieon’s mother.

Gidieon died in a tragic accident in 2019 when he was just 8 years old. To honor his memory, Keri established a Community Fund at Kosciusko County Community Foundation.

“It’s a form of healing for our family – to know Gidieon’s name is still being recognized and remembered each time a grant is awarded,” said Keri.

Community Fund grants (of which Gidieon’s memorial fund is a part) award grants to local organizations that offer services to in the areas of arts and culture, civic projects, education, recreation, the environment and more. Most recently, Gidieon’s memorial fund donated $2,000 to Baker Youth Club to support their after school programs, according to a provided news release.

“We’re grateful to able to give back to local nonprofits, especially after all they gave to us,” Keri said. “We encourage others to join us and give through Gidieon’s fund, too.”

Gifts to the Gidieon Orion Cook Memorial Fund can be made online at www.kcfoundation.org or via check to 102 E. Market Street, Warsaw, IN 46580 with “Gidieon Cook” in the memo line.