Falling Green Fund
The Falling Green Fund supports community-based youth organizations in Tucker County, with a special emphasis on 4-H leadership development and youth equestrian activities, honoring the legacy of Richard and LaVerna White.
TYPE OF FUND: Field of Interest
DATE ESTABLISHED: Initiated December 26, 1996, Established June 22, 2000
PURPOSE: To support Tucker County community-based youth organizations with strong consideration given to 4-H leadership programs and/or youth equestrian activities.
DISTRIBUTION: Upon the recommendation by the Grants Committee and approval by the full Board of Directors of TCF.
VARIANCE POWER: If, in the judgment of the TCF Board of Directors, the restrictions and conditions of the fund become unnecessary, incapable of fulfillment or inconsistent with the charitable needs of the community, the TCF Board of Directors maintains the right to modify the terms of this fund.
FUNDING: Funds to establish the Falling Green Fund were provided by Scott and Diane Hinkle in honor of her parents, LaVerna and Richard T. White, Sr. of Mt. Airy, Maryland. Richard T. White, Sr. passed away in 2006, but prior to his death he made a $100,000 donation, becoming the Foundation’s first “Ambassador.” Upon his death, a large number of memorial donations were made by family and friends.
BACKGROUND: Richard and LaVerna White are well known in their community for their active involvement and support of community-based youth organizations. Having reared five children of their own, the Whites appreciated the positive impact made by youth organizations such as 4-H, athletic clubs, and church groups.
Farming was the hub of the White family activities. Their home, Falling Green Farm, was the site of many large gatherings that included swimming, fishing, picnics, and horseback riding. Guests included inner-city children, International Foundation for Youth Exchange (IFYE) students, Boy Scout troops, Little League teams, and local and out-of-state 4-H members.
Richard White, a native of Montgomery County, Maryland, began farming after high school and managed a successful sweet corn business. In the late 1950s, the family moved to Carroll County, where he operated a thriving sod business and pursued real estate ventures as an independent licensed realtor. Over time, he owned and operated more than 25 farms across Montgomery, Howard, and Carroll counties. In retirement, he remained active as a board member and advisor for Farmers & Mechanics Bank. Friends and family credit him with inspiring and backing many business ventures. He passed away at home on October 22, 2006.
LaVerna White still resides in Mt. Airy and remains actively involved in her community, especially at Calvary United Methodist Church.
The name Falling Green originated with the Brooke Farm in Olney, MD, one of the first farms purchased by the Whites in 1949. To this day, it remains a historic Montgomery County landmark.
