The Clinton County Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Kraus as its new Executive Director, effective August 4, 2025. Alison Belfrage will continue in her role as Executive Director until then and has graciously agreed to assist with the transition after August 4th on a consulting basis.
“The Foundation Board is excited to have Mark join us in this leadership capacity and help guide the Foundation to its next chapter of helping create a thriving community where people want to live, work, and grow. We will be announcing a ‘meet and greet’ event soon where the community will have the opportunity to welcome Mark to Clinton County,” stated Jeff Drapalik, Foundation Board President.
Currently, the Major Gifts Officer for Mercy Health Foundation of Clark & Champaign Counties, Mark brings 35 years of philanthropy and nonprofit management skills to the Foundation. Much of his career has been working with various chapters of the Boy Scouts of America – Director of Development for the Lincoln Heritage Council in Kentucky; Scout Executive / CEO for the Verdugo Hills Council in California; and Scout Executive / CEO for the Connecticut Yankee Council. In these various roles, Mark successfully achieved his goals to increase philanthropy revenue, grow youth membership, expand the organization’s network of supporters, secure major and legacy gifts and complete major capital projects. In addition, his ability to quickly assimilate into the community and establish partnerships with community organizations was a major factor of his success.
“I am thrilled to be joining the Clinton County Foundation and am eager to get to know the community better and partner with all interested parties. Helping a growing community address issues impacting its residents is a passion of mine,” shared Mark.
Currently a resident of Jamestown, OH, Mark was born and raised in the Dayton area. There he participated in several volunteer activities including coaching youth athletics in Vandalia and heading up the Carroll High School Alumni Association, until his departure for Louisville, KY in 2000. Mark returned to his midwestern roots in 2024. Mark holds a B.A. in Communications from the University of Dayton.
Jeff Drapalik
Board President