Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Indiana Philanthropy Alliance has named Rich Haddad, president and CEO of K21 Health Foundation, the recipient of the 2026 Hazelett Award for Leadership in Grantmaking, recognizing nearly 20 years of service that has helped organizations grow, developed nonprofit leaders and advanced health and well-being across Kosciusko County.
Haddad received the award Sept. 3 during IPA’s Philanthropy Leads Conference in Indianapolis, according to a provided news release. Named in memory of philanthropic leader Susie Hazelett, the award honors individuals who demonstrate generosity, mentorship, high professional standards and a deep commitment to serving others.
K21 Health Foundation is a private, independent foundation dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of Kosciusko County residents. Haddad has led K21 Health Foundation since 2006, bringing a background in finance and community service to the role. During his tenure, he has helped position K21 as more than a source of grants, using the foundation’s resources and relationships to connect people, support nonprofit capacity and pursue solutions to local health needs, the release states.
“Rich is a convener and collaborator. He sees his role as more than a funder in building a stronger community,” said Patti Hays, CEO of WindSwell Foundation, who nominated Haddad for the award. “His longevity in Kosciusko County is built upon trusted relationships over the decades. People come together at his initiative, and nonprofits and the communities they serve are stronger as a result.”
K21’s “Wellness for Generations” approach reflects that long-term perspective, with an emphasis on improving health and well-being today while considering what Kosciusko County will need in the years ahead, according to the release.
The Kosciusko Health Services Pavilion is one example. A concept developed and funded by K21 early in Haddad’s tenure, the building brings health and human service organizations together in one location, making services more accessible and giving providers opportunities to better coordinate their work.
Haddad’s influence can also be seen in the people and organizations he has supported along the way.
“Rich leads with integrity, humility and a deep commitment to serving others,” said Rebecca Bazzoni, founder and CEO of Joe’s Kids. “He is not driven by personal ambition, but by a genuine desire to see others succeed.”
Bazzoni credits Haddad with serving as an advocate, mediator, mentor and friend to Joe’s Kids since its early years, helping the organization establish credibility, build community connections and navigate periods of growth. Haddad also helped bring nonprofit CEO roundtables to the community, creating space for leaders to learn from and support one another.
Other organizations have experienced that same willingness to step in when needed. Leslie Friedel, CEO of Stillwater Hospice, described Haddad as a trusted connector and adviser who has helped organizations explore ways to preserve services, improve operations and plan for long-term sustainability.
Haddad’s contributions extend beyond Kosciusko County. He has been active in Indiana’s philanthropic sector for many years, including service in IPA board leadership, where he has shared his experience with peers and contributed to efforts connecting grantmakers across the state.
Throughout his tenure at K21, Haddad has paired careful stewardship with a willingness to think expansively about philanthropy’s role, the release states. As the foundation’s resources have grown, he has remained focused on using them to expand access to care, support capable organizations and bring people together around opportunities to improve quality of life.
