The Greater Worcester Community Foundation has received what it describes as an unexpected $4-million unrestricted gift from Vaughn Kaprelian of Westborough, who passed away in April 2021.
“We are so humbled by the opportunity to honor Vaughn and his tremendous generosity, through our philanthropic work. With this amazing, unrestricted gift, he leaves a legacy of caring, compassion, and generosity that will impact the needs of our community for years to come,” Kelly Stimson, GWCF vice president of donor services and relations, said in a Tuesday press release.
Kaprelian was a self-employed blasting engineer and U.S. Army veteran who played musical instruments, painted, and enjoyed beekeeping in his spare time.
Unrestricted gifts can be used at an organization’s discretion, rather than being tied to a specific project.
The gift comes after GWCF announced on Sept. 12 it had awarded $745,000 in scholarships to 439 Worcester County students for college.
GWCF announced on Sept. 21 it had appointed an interim CEO, Tim Johnstone, while the organization conducts a search for a new permanent CEO following the abrupt resignation of Jim Ayers.
