The primary organization dedicated to actively and comprehensively preserving local history, the Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS) is a lead collaborator for the newly established “Hometown Heroes” program. A special matching challenge to support CCHS, in honor of Arthur and Florence (Scanlon) Dietrich, is being offered by Edward Dietrich during this year’s #GivingTuesday on Nov. 28.(Submitted photo)

NORWICH –  The Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS) will participate in #GivingTuesday, a global day of giving that harnesses the collective power of individuals, communities, and organizations to encourage philanthropy and to celebrate generosity worldwide. Widely recognized shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday kick off the holiday giving season, while #GivingTuesday inspires people to improve their communities by donating to local charities. 

Occurring this year on Nov. 28, #GivingTuesday is held on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving.  To encourage support of CCHS,  Edward Dietrich  will match any donation made on #GivingTuesday – up to a total match amount of $500 – in honor of his parents, Florence (Scanlon) and Arthur Dietrich.

Arthur (1928 – 2017) and  Florence (1927 – 1996)  Dietrich were pillars of the Chenango County community. After serving in the United States Army Signal Corps, Arthur had a career with the Norwich Knitting Mill and the Norwich Pharmaceutical Company, eventually retiring from Procter & Gamble. Upon studying at Marymount College and earning a degree in business administration from Syracuse University, Florence worked briefly for NBT. The two married in 1954 and brought their six children up in Norwich. Both Arthur and Florence actively supported the local community. Arthur was chairman of the Christ Lutheran Church’s mortgage reduction drive and Exalted Ruler of the Norwich Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge No. 1222. Florence volunteered with both Emmanuel Episcopal Church and St. Paul’s Church; she was also a long-time member of the Eta Epsilon Sorority and the Bassett Hospital Auxiliary. In their retirement years, Arthur and Florence enjoyed sailing on Otsego Lake.

Those interested in making a special #GivingTuesday donation in support of CCHS – to be matched dollar-for-dollar in honor of Arthur and Florence – are asked to process gifts through  https://tinyurl.com/CCHSGT2023  anytime from 12 a.m. until 11:59 p.m. on Nov. 28.

“We are extremely grateful to Ed for partnering with us,” said Jessica Moquin, executive director. “This generous support in honor of his parents  is a very thoughtful investment in our mission.  We hope community members take advantage of this special opportunity to maximize the impact of their gift to CCHS.”

First established in 1939, CCHS is the primary organization dedicated to actively and comprehensively preserving the history of Chenango County. The area’s premier heritage museum, the organization celebrates local culture – unique traditions, noteworthy residents, and unusual stories of the region.  CCHS programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. The museum is currently open to visitors from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday.

– Information from the CCHS