A community foundation since 1929
Keeping the lights on for the Hartland community.
Founded by John Robert Crouse, Sr., the Hartland Area Project invests in the health, education, and economic life of every person in the Hartland area — one scholarship, one volunteer, and one gift at a time.
What we stand for
How can we help?
Founder John Robert Crouse, Sr. believed a community thrives when neighbors share their time, talents, and resources. Our work concentrates on three areas that shape daily life in Hartland.
- 01 · Health & Welfare — care for the wellbeing of every neighbor.
- 02 · Education & Culture — scholarships, arts, music, and learning.
- 03 · Economic Development — keeping the community vital and self-sustaining.
Three ways to make a difference
Give, serve, or grow.
Give
Give once, monthly, or annually to the fund that matters most to you — every dollar stays right here in the Hartland community.
Volunteer
Browse open shifts posted by Hartland organizations on our shared calendar and sign up for the times that fit your schedule — no account needed.
Apply
Graduating students: apply online for our annual scholarship — transcripts and letters upload right in the form.
Celebrating Hartland
Honoring the people who make us better.
Each year we recognize neighbors, students, and organizations whose service, talent, and generosity strengthen our community — across ten award categories. Anyone can nominate someone deserving.
Past recipients
Browse photos of the award recipients and scholarship winners we’ve celebrated over the years — the faces behind Hartland’s story.
Our founder & our why
“I see before us great opportunity, but each must do his part.”
A lamp-industry pioneer who helped found NELA Park, John Robert Crouse, Sr. returned to Hartland in 1926 and launched the Project under one enduring motto — “Friendly Association for Community Service.”
Our signature event
The 5K Turkey Trot at Waldenwoods.
Every Thanksgiving season, hundreds of neighbors run and walk a scenic 5K around Lake Walden — and 100% of proceeds support the Hartland Area Project. Top finishers even win a year at Waldenwoods.
Who leads the project
A volunteer board of your neighbors.
Open & accountable
A foundation you can trust.
As a 501(c)(3), we keep our impact and our finances out in the open — and we’re always glad to hear from you.
Support our mission
Invest in a brighter tomorrow for Hartland.
Every gift — one-time, monthly, or through your estate — stays right here and helps create a richer, more abundant community life. Thank you for doing your part.