About Us

A Legacy for Life

George and Hilinda Marsh, along with their daughter Katie, left behind more than just a generous estate—they left a lasting legacy of compassion, purpose, and hope for generations of children and families in need.

The Marsh family dedicated the majority of their substantial estate to establishing a foundation that would support youth who, through no fault of their own, lacked the safety, stability, and guidance of a secure home environment. Their vision was deeply rooted in kindness and a sense of civic responsibility.

According to local legend, the inspiration for this legacy was sparked on a cold winter night as George and Hilinda traveled through Van Wert, Ohio, on their way home from the theater in Fort Wayne, Indiana. They passed two young boys huddled together in a dark doorway—left alone while their mother worked evening hours to provide for them. Moved by the heartbreaking sight, Hilinda turned to her husband and said, “There, George, we could use our money when we need it no longer, to establish a home for little fellows such as those.”

That moment of compassion ultimately gave rise to The Marsh Foundation.

Formalized in George H. Marsh’s Last Will and Testament on November 26, 1919, the Foundation was envisioned to benefit children “who by reason of misfortune or any other cause are denied the opportunity for secure home training, education and instruction.” In the concluding words of his will, Mr. Marsh wrote: “I depart this life in the hope that the Foundation shall become an instrument of enduring and ever-increasing benefit to mankind.”

More than a century later, The Marsh Foundation continues to honor this legacy by providing youth and families with the support, education, and care they need to thrive. Through residential programs, therapeutic services, and educational opportunities, we remain dedicated to creating a brighter future—just as the Marsh family intended.

An Enduring Legacy

More than a century ago, George and Hilinda Marsh established an endowment with the hope of improving the lives of vulnerable children for generations to come. That vision has not only endured—it has flourished.

The Marsh Foundation endowment has served as the financial cornerstone of our work, making possible the construction of a stately and welcoming campus in Van Wert, Ohio. It enabled the creation of a nationally respected orphanage that supported thousands of youth for decades, and it continues to fund the expansion of services to meet the ever-evolving needs of children and families today.

From assembling a team of dedicated and compassionate professionals to developing innovative therapeutic, educational, and residential programs, the endowment remains a living embodiment of the Marsh family’s commitment to children’s well-being. What began as a simple act of compassion has grown into a dynamic organization that offers hope, healing, and opportunity to those who need it most.

Today, The Marsh Foundation continues to adapt to the needs of the modern world while staying true to its founding mission—to serve youth “who by reason of misfortune or any other cause are denied the opportunity for secure home training, education and instruction.” Thanks to the foresight and generosity of the Marsh family, that mission will continue for generations to come.