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Grant Program check presentation
Introducing the Bellevue Community Foundation Legacy Trail
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Bellevue Community Foundation

To ignite passion, inspire action, and create capital to invest in Bellevue’s community.

“Life is no brief candle to me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got to hold for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.”
– George Bernard Shaw

Bellevue Community Foundation Awards Jim and Judy Ristow 2025 MVP Award

Congratulations to Jim and Judy Ristow, this year’s recipients of the Bellevue Community Foundation’s Annual MVP Award!
 
Jim and Judy truly embody dedication, teamwork, and community pride. Jim has spent his career helping Bellevue grow — from his time as President and CEO of the Greater Bellevue Area Chamber of Commerce to his current role as City Administrator — always working to make Bellevue stronger for families, businesses, and our proud military community.
 
Judy has also dedicated her life to serving others, following a 38-year career with First National Bank by volunteering with the Bellevue Food Pantry, the Bellevue Community Foundation, and the Basset Beagle Rescue Group. Together, Jim and Judy have raised a wonderful family and can often be found cheering on their grandchildren, helping at community events, and spreading Bellevue spirit wherever they go.
 
Jim and Judy humbly accepted this award at the BCF’s Annual Tailgate Party on Saturday night at the Beardmore Event Center, where they were joined by many of their family members who surprised them at the event.
 
Jim and Judy, your passion, leadership, and love for Bellevue inspire all of us. Thank you for everything you’ve done — and continue to do — to make our community a better place. Congratulations on being named the 2025 BCF MVPs — Bellevue is truly a better place because of you!

Bellevue Rocks! Riverfront Festival to be held June 4th -7th at American Heroes Park

Please mark your calendars for a fun-filled weekend in Bellevue.  Look for more details soon

2025 Fiery Spirit of Bellevue Award Winners

Established in 2023, the Fiery Spirit of Bellevue Award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication and commitment to both the Foundation and the Bellevue community as a whole.

 The BCF would like to extend its heartfelt congratulations and thanks to Jeff and Deanna Wagner and Krista Carlson, whose efforts consistently go above and beyond to help the Foundation grow and prosper while making a meaningful difference in the Bellevue community every single day.

Deanna Wagner has served on the BCF Event Committee for several years and, by day—and often many nights and weekends, especially this time of year—she is one of the managers of the Bellevue Food Bank. It is difficult to overstate the impact the Food Bank has on our community, and Deanna is at the heart of that work. She is always a go-to person for the Foundation, and we deeply appreciate all she does for the betterment of Bellevue.

Jeff Wagner, principal of Bellevue East High School, has truly made a difference not only within the school but also in the lives of students and the broader community. We are fortunate that, in his valued spare time, Jeff is always willing to step in and help wherever he is needed. As he prepares to retire at the end of this school year, we hope to see even more of Jeff around the BCF.

Krista Carlson, Office Manager for the Permits and Inspections Department, has been a valued friend of the Foundation for many years. She was recognized this evening for her dedication, energy, and unwavering commitment to the Foundation, which never goes unnoticed. Krista is always a good sport, a steady presence, and a true friend to so many of us.

For all they do for our community, their positive outlooks, and their can-do attitudes, it is our honor to present Jeff and Deanna Wagner and Krista Carlson with this year’s Fiery Spirit of Bellevue Award.

Previous recipients of this award include Sunni Renner and Matt Goetz in 2023, and Connie Munch and Larry Lampman in 2024.

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