At its most recent board meeting, the Washington County Community Foundation approved a record-setting pool of funds available for its community grants. The total of $55,000 tops last year’s grants by $20,000.
Eligible Washington County nonprofit organizations may apply for grants to help fund their charitable projects beginning immediately, with a deadline of Oct. 1 to complete their requests. Project requirements are on the application form, available for download on the foundation’s website at washcocommfoundation.org. Grants will be selected by the grant committee in October, and checks will be presented in December.
“This is really exciting, and a lot of money to give away for worthy projects,” grant committee chairperson Emily Petersen said. “It means we can give to more projects or more for larger projects than we ever have before.”
“This is such a great testament to the generosity of people who have entrusted their charitable dollars to the foundation,” said Bob Coffey, director of development. “As our assets grow, so does our ability to provide support to the non-profits that do so much for the character and quality of life we enjoy here in Washington County.”
In addition to the $55,000, some donors have indicated a desire to add to the total.
“This is a solid step in the right direction,” Coffey said. “ The foundation has set an ultimate goal of providing $1 million a year to help support charitable projects in Washington County. Just imagine the impact of that. It will happen if people continue their generosity and provide for the Foundation in their estate plans. The earnings of estate gifts we have received mean that those gifts continue to benefit the community for generations to come. In fact, some have already exceeded the amount of the original gift.”
Nonprofit organizations who have questions regarding the community frant process can go to the foundation’s website for more information or may contact Emily Petersen at 402-533-0194.
