Fund Est. 2000
Mrs. Phil (Carolyn) Barger, was an active volunteer for many nonprofit organizations in Adams County and served as a past board member for the Youth for Christ organization.
Carolyn felt establishing an endowment for the Youth for Christ organization through the Adams County Community Foundation was a great way to show her support for the efforts of the Youth for Christ today and for many years into the future.
Married in 1957, Phil and Carolyn were together for 51 years. Both born in Adams County, Phil and Carolyn retires as business owners of the well-known Gerber's grocery stores in Decatur, and the parents of three children, all who lived in the Adams County. Mike (passed away Nov. 4, 2016), Michele, and Ted. Their three children and all seven grandchildren graduated from Adams Central School. They were dedicated parents and dedicated to one another and community minded supporters.
Phil and Carolyn have been supportive of the Adams County area and its residents, and they continue to give and provide support. Through this fund, a grant is presented every year to Youth for Christ organization serving Adams County residents.
Youth for Christ (YFC) organization began during WWII. Young ministers and evangelists began holding large rallies in Canada, England and the United States. From these rallies YFC was born as a national movement working to reach young people. YFC grew in momentum with revivals popping up around the nation. Thousands committed their lives to Christ as the emphasis on evangelism continued. Efforts shifted toward campus evangelism, and the first Campus Life staff began developing strategies and materials for engaging students.
Carolyn and Phil firmly believed in the necessity to establish a strong foundation in moral and Christian doctrines. They instituted this fund in 1999 to help provide operational support for the Youth for Christ serving, Adams, Blackford, Grant, Jay, and Wells Counties Chapter of the Youth for Christ located in Bluffton, IN.
The ACCF respectfully remembers: Phil Barger, 68
(September 17, 1940- April 19, 2009)