Frank Downie

NEW FUND HIGHLIGHT: Introducing the PROTOCOL Progress Fund.

The new PROTOCOL Progress Fund for Lindenwald is a celebration of one man’s love for his community and his commitment to its future. Longtime resident Frank Downie, who has called Lindenwald home for nearly 70 years, established the fund to ensure the neighborhood he cherishes continues to thrive.

This new fund honors the values of the neighborhood group PROTOCOL, People Reaching Out To Others Celebrate Our Lindenwald, which Frank helped create. PROTOCOL has been a cornerstone of the neighborhood, fostering unity and encouraging residents to become more involved.

The Fund will focus on enhancing the neighborhood's vibrancy and fostering a lasting sense of community, with a preference for initiatives recommended by PROTOCOL—such as the recent Porch Fest community event and beautification projects along Pleasant Avenue.

“Knowing that there will be funds available for future community advocates to tap into and improve the quality of life here is heartwarming,” Frank shared. His hope is that this fund will help inspire others to take an active role in supporting the neighborhood for years to come.

“Knowing that there will be funds available for future community advocates to tap into and improve the quality of life here is heartwarming,” Frank shared. His hope is that this fund will help inspire others to take an active role in supporting the neighborhood for years to come.

Frank’s connection to Lindenwald runs deep. His father worked in Hamilton, eventually purchasing Federle Wholesale Florist, which Frank managed after his father’s passing in 1974. Although a later career change led him to other opportunities, Frank remained loyal to Lindenwald, continuing to live in the same home he purchased in 1976. Today, Frank enjoys spending time with friends, gardening, and staying connected with the neighborhood he loves.

Frank invites others to join him in growing the fund’s impact. “I hope many of our community supporters from over the years will come together to make this fund more and more impactful,” he said.

By carefully managing and growing the fund over time, the Community Foundation will grant a portion back annually to support meaningful projects. This ensures that Frank’s vision—and the generosity of all who contribute—will create lasting change, enriching the Lindenwald neighborhood for generations to come.