Giving feels good: Patti Dittoe

This Buckeye’s philosophy about giving is simple — but it drives a big impact.

When Patti Dittoe was a child at North Elementary School in Lancaster, Ohio, she would spend recess finding and analyzing rocks that had fossils in them. She had never been exposed to geology before and didn’t realize it was a career path she could take, but her fascination with the earth sciences grew over time. Now, she has worked in the Orton Memorial Library of Geology for 27 years.

Patti was working at the library in 2012 when the Geological Museum was vandalized. With many of the displays destroyed, the museum needed support to repair the damage. Driven by her desire to help the museum recover, Patti decided to donate — and she didn't stop there.

“I love this place. I just wanted to continue giving,” says Dittoe. “It’s not anything I would ever even miss, but it helps them.”

Patti realized her gift, combined with support from other donors, could create significant change. Over the years, Patti has given to funds she is passionate about, such as children’s vision, libraries, the Geological Museum and more. She donates a few dollars regularly, which makes a big impact over time — and she hopes others will do the same. Patti’s philosophy on giving focuses on the collective strength of a community rather than one individual.

“I think of army ants. Those tiny ants have the ability to fell a huge beast when they come together. It’s the same with donating — if everyone gives a little bit, it has the potential to make something fantastic happen.” - Patti Dittoe