HINTON, W.Va. — As interest in living, working, and vacationing near New River Gorge National Park and Preserve grows and brings new investment to southern West Virginia, a community foundation invites residents and out-of-state supporters to help strengthen the region’s future.
The Hinton Area Foundation is encouraging contributions to charitable funds that support education, nonprofit organizations, and community improvements in Summers County. Qualifying donors with West Virginia tax liability may receive state tax credits equal to half their contributions.
“Every donor has something that matters deeply to them—helping students pursue an education, supporting a local organization, or strengthening the community for future generations,” said Sheila Pillath, the foundation’s executive director. “NIP gives donors an opportunity to put more of their dollars toward those causes while reducing their West Virginia taxes.”
The foundation has a limited number of tax credits remaining from its $33,400 allocation through West Virginia’s Neighborhood Investment Program for fiscal 2027. Credits are available on a first-come, first-served basis for qualifying contributions of $500 or more.
Hinton sits near the southern end of the national park, at the confluence of the New and Greenbrier rivers. The historic railroad town offers access to Sandstone Falls, fishing, boating, and other recreational opportunities.
The designation of the New River Gorge as a national park in 2020, combined with the expansion of remote work, has helped attract interest from out-of-state homebuyers, vacation-property owners, and investors.
For people establishing connections to the region, charitable giving offers another way to participate in the community, whether they live in Summers County year-round or visit periodically.
How West Virginia’s tax-credit program works
The Neighborhood Investment Program encourages private contributions to approved nonprofit organizations serving communities in need.
Eligible taxpayers may receive a state tax credit equal to 50 percent of a qualifying donation. A $1,000 contribution, for example, could generate $500 in West Virginia tax credits.
Unlike a tax deduction, which reduces taxable income, a tax credit directly reduces tax owed.
The foundation requires a separate processing fee of 3 percent. A $500 contribution would therefore require a total payment of $515, including the $15 fee, and could generate $250 in state tax credits. The processing fee does not qualify for credits.
Donors living outside West Virginia may also qualify if they have eligible West Virginia tax liability. Those without qualifying state tax liability can still contribute, although they generally cannot benefit from the state credit.
Tax credits are subject to program requirements and individual limitations. Federal rules governing charitable deductions may also affect the overall tax consequences of a contribution.
Foundation grants support education and community projects
The Hinton Area Foundation administers charitable funds that support students, nonprofit organizations, and public services throughout Summers County.
According to the foundation’s published grant records, its General Endowment Fund grants page lists $164,341.79 in grants for 2024, including contributions to educational programs, community organizations, and designated charitable funds.
Among the listed distributions was $70,600 for the Summers County Public Library. Other recipients included the Veterans Memorial Museum of Southern West Virginia, Beyond Wishes Therapeutic Riding Program, local youth sports organizations, and Communities In Schools programs.
The foundation also funded classroom projects through its Learning Innovations Grants, supporting activities ranging from reading instruction to educational field trips.
Its endowment structure allows charitable contributions to provide continuing support. Investment income from endowed funds is distributed for eligible purposes while the principal remains invested.
Donors may contribute to existing qualifying funds or inquire about establishing new ones. They do not need to maintain their own fund to participate.
David Ziegler, a founder and donor to the Hinton Area Foundation, said the program offers an incentive to support the county.
“Summers County is important to me, and giving through the Foundation is one way I can help care for its future,” Ziegler said. “With NIP, I can support a cause I care about and receive a tax credit in return. It’s a smart way to give.”
How to contribute before the deadline
The foundation advises prospective donors to contact its office before contributing to confirm that their preferred fund qualifies and that tax credits remain available.
Contributions intended for the 2026 tax year must be completed by December 31, 2026. Qualifying donations made between January 1 and June 30, 2027, may be eligible for the 2027 tax year, subject to credit availability and program requirements.
To learn more or request a pledge form, contact Sheila Pillath at 304-309-5502 or sheila@hintonareafoundation.org. Information about available charitable funds is published at hintonareafoundation.org.