Concord - The New Hampshire Charitable Foundation's Nashua Region held its annual celebration last evening at the Sky Meadow Country Club in Nashua.  Foundation donors, community partners, volunteers and staff gathered to celebrate a remarkable year for the region including a record-breaking year for grants and the inaugural presentation of the Nashua Region Emerging Leader award.  Brad and Beth Kreick, of Nashua, are this year's recipients. 

In 2008, the Foundation distributed $462,000 in grants and scholarships to Nashua area nonprofit organizations and students.  This represents a 50% increase over the previous year and an increase of nearly 300% since 2006.  Peter Tamposi, chair of the Foundation's Nashua Region board commented, "We remain equally committed to our nonprofit partners in 2009; however, in light of these difficult economic times, we need your help to support these vital organizations so they can maintain the services and programs that make this region such a great place to live."

Rob Prunier, vice president of Business Development at Harvey Construction, presented the Emerging Leader Award to two people who personify exceptional community service, leadership, and commitment to the Nashua Region – Brad and Beth Kreick.  Prunier, who served on the award selection committee, praised the Kreicks for their service.  "They are true examples of active philanthropy, they want to have an impact now, and they serve as role models for other young leaders in our community."

The Kreicks are currently involved with several organizations, including Big Brother Big Sisters of Greater Nashua, Conway Arena, Boys and Girls Club of Greater Nashua, Adult Learning Center, Nashua Police Athletic League, Nashua Soup Kitchen and the Child Advocacy Center of Hillsborough County. 

Brad is the executive vice president at Apria Healthcare Inc., and the founder and CEO of BRK Ventures, LLC, an investment and management services firm.  Beth is the student activity coordinator at Nashua High School North.

The New Hampshire Charitable Foundation serves communities throughout New Hampshire, southeastern Maine, and eastern Vermont. The Charitable Foundation manages a growing collection of charitable funds created by individuals, families, and corporations, and awarded more than $34 million in grants and scholarships in 2008. The Charitable Foundation is non-partisan, frequently playing the role of convener and catalyst on a broad spectrum of issues. Based in Concord, the Charitable Foundation roots itself in the communities through seven regional advisory boards. More information is available at www.nhcf.org, or by calling 603-225-6641.