Photo Credit: Montgomery County Community FoundationEvents
Montgomery County Community Foundation’s 2025 Gifts of the Vine Wine Dinner brings community together
The Montgomery County Community Foundation (MCCF) proudly hosted its 2025 Gifts of the Vine Wine Dinner & Auction on Thursday, April 3, at the beautiful Grand Pines Reserve. The elegant evening brought together community leaders, philanthropists, and nonprofit supporters for a night of celebration, connection, and commitment to the causes that make Montgomery County stronger.
Chaired by dedicated community advocates Christin Allphin and Tim Welbes, the event was a true reflection of their leadership and passion for giving back. From the inviting ambiance to the carefully curated details, their efforts helped create a memorable night that highlighted the heart and mission of MCCF.
The highlight of the evening was the recognition of George’s Coffee club as this year’s honoree. Known for their quiet generosity, lasting commitment to building community, and sharing George Mitchell’s vision to future generations, the collective membership of George’s Coffee Club has made a significant impact across Montgomery County.
The always-engaging Nelda Blair served as emcee for the evening, bringing warmth, energy, and her well-known flair for storytelling. A highlight of the night was the live auction led by Ray Burgess, who kept the crowd entertained and bidding enthusiastically for a great cause.
The evening was a meaningful success in its own right—rallying support, elevating awareness, and reinforcing the Montgomery County Community Foundation’s vital role in the nonprofit ecosystem. Every dollar raised will go directly toward MCCF’s grant-making efforts, supporting the essential programs and services that local organizations provide year-round.
“For more than 40 years, MCCF has been dedicated to strengthening the fabric of our community through grants and scholarships that positively shape the lives of our children, families, and neighbors,” said Laura Lea Palmer, MCCF Chair of the Board. “Thanks to the generosity of our guests and the hard work of our co-chairs and volunteers, we’re able to continue investing in the organizations that care for, educate, and empower our neighbors.”
Guests enjoyed a gourmet dinner, fine wine pairings, and a variety of exciting auction packages—from weekend getaways to unique experiences—all in support of MCCF’s mission. The Gifts of the Vine Wine Dinner & Auction also provided a special opportunity to shine light on the many nonprofit partners MCCF serves through its thoughtful and strategic grantmaking.
MCCF extends its heartfelt thanks to every attendee, sponsor, volunteer, and community partner who helped make the event such a meaningful celebration. Special appreciation goes to Christin Allphin and Tim Welbes for their outstanding leadership, to Nelda Blair and Ray Burgess for bringing the evening to life, and to Grand Pines Reserve for the stunning setting.
Montgomery County Community Foundation unites donors’ passions with the future by creating legacies that improve the quality of life of Montgomery County residents through scholarships and grants in support of non-profits that tackle a wide spectrum of community needs and interests. Established in 1983 by Reverend Don Gebert and George Mitchell, the Community Foundation has awarded over $3.5 million to Montgomery County residents for 40 years, through more than 225 scholarships, 48 hurricane related home repair grants to Montgomery County residents, and 690 grants to local nonprofits. Learn more at www.mccfoundation.org.
Source: Montgomery County Community Foundation
