January 07, 2026| Fundraising, People
By: Caitlin Doran
We at the Lake Hopatcong Foundation believe that protecting our lake benefits everyone and by working together, a vibrant, healthy lake and community is achievable and sustainable. In pursuit of this vision, we implement environmental improvement projects, educate kids on the importance of stewardship, connect people to our cause, and make the case for a healthy lake to our elected officials.
None of this is possible without your financial support. The last months of the year are a critical time for nonprofits like ours to ask for donations, and when we asked, you answered! We had an ambitious goal of raising $70K by December 31, and I am proud to relay that at $65,564, we were very close!
Along with your donations, many of you told us what protecting our lake now and for the future means to you, and those messages inspired us. Messages like this one from Richard Maizell… “I lived on the lake for over 25 years, as a kid and into adulthood. My family loved all the seasons. It is a part of my life history that I will never forget and hope to help in its preservation for future generations.”
…and Jean Scrocco in memory of Greg Hildebrandt… “OH, SO MUCH! Greg and I moved in together here in Byram Cove in 1991. My entire life living with my love was here. Every beautiful sunrise. Every beautiful memory was here. My heart is here."
…and Bob Kays…
“When LHF was started, I thought about my grandparents, Norman (Red) Dotterweich and Catherine Dotterweich. Their 1956 purchase of a home on Raccoon Island started our Lake Hopatcong journey. The LHF would be the organization to keep Lake Hopatcong safe and beautiful for generations to come. We are now in our 5th generation. I know LHF will help keep the place my family loves - the place Catherine and Norman's great great grandsons will bring their families.”
…and Caryle Steggall…
“I love the lake and I want to see it protected and safe so my grandchildren and future great grandchildren can enjoy it and live on it safely for their lifetimes.”
We can continue protecting the environment and enhancing the experience on and around Lake Hopatcong because of you and supporters like you. We want to say, “Thank you!” to the following individuals who made a year-end gift that helps us preserve Lake Hopatcong’s future.
