Gene Wiles Memorial Fund Grant Applications Open

The Gene Wiles Memorial Fund, a component fund of the Community Foundation of Washington County, now has applications available for its annual grant which provides financial support through a qualifying organization to a young adult from Washington County, Maryland, or the surrounding area, pursuing an agricultural endeavor. Applicants must be between the ages of 16 and 21 and have an affiliation with 4-H programs, the FFA or the Washington County Agriculture Board. Projects must relate directly to agricultural interests. Recipients will have to provide appropriate documentation of expenditures. Last year’s recipient, John Justin Martin, used the award to purchase a bred gilt to expand his swine breeding operation.The Wiles family created the Gene Wiles Memorial Fund at the Foundation to memorialize their son, Gene. Born in Hagerstown, Gene attended Clear Spring Middle School, where he was an honor student. He participated in many different organizations including the Washington County 4-H Dairy and Swine Clubs as well as the youth group and archery club at Five Forks Brethren in Christ Church.Apply here for the Gene Wiles Memorial Fund grant.