Licking Memorial Health Systems (LMHS) is pleased to recognize the Thomas J. Evans Foundation with the Building a Healthier Community Award. The award is presented each year to an individual, group, or organization in Licking County with a non-profit project or initiative that reflects LMHS’ mission to improve the health of the community.
The Thomas J. Evans Foundation was established in 1965 by Thomas J. Evans and J. Gilbert Reese in order to enhance local educational, cultural, and recreational programs and opportunities. The Foundation frequently collaborates with local charitable organizations, and is perhaps best known for its development of the extensive bike path system throughout the county.
The Thomas J. Evans Foundation is currently developing the Canal Market District between 2nd Street and 3rd Street in Downtown Newark. This project will improve access to healthy, locally grown food by establishing the Canal Market Plaza, and also will enhance the Walnut Street Park, improve downtown parking areas, and provide a venue for local musical and cultural events. The Canal Market District is a testament to the Thomas J. Evans Foundation’s commitment to improving the local community, and is a crucial component of the revitalization of the Downtown Newark area.
The Thomas J. Evans Foundation is the tenth recipient of the Building a Healthier Community Award, which was established by the LMH Development Council in 2005. Previous recipients have included LMH TWIGS, Newark Rotary Club, Salvation Army of Licking County, Hospice of Central Ohio, Granville High School Key Club, Twentieth Century Club, American Red Cross of Licking County, The Licking County Coalition of Care, and the Look Up Dental Clinic. The 2014 award will be formally presented to the Thomas J. Evans Foundation at a reception on November 7, at the John Gilbert Reese Center in Newark.