Oct. 26—ELKHART — The Community Foundation of Elkhart County’s Board of Directors has approved $2,195,705 of new grants to nonprofits and programs throughout Elkhart County.
The grants were given in the categories of placemaking, kids and families, and career pathways, reflecting the priorities of the Community Foundation, a news release stated. The organization is helping lead two community initiatives and grantmaking is supporting the efforts of Connect in Elkhart County, focused on expanding Elkhart County’s trail network, and Building Strong Brains: Elkhart County’s Early Childhood Initiative.
The board met Oct. 19, prior to the Community Foundation’s Annual Celebration. Several hundred people gathered for that event, which celebrated another successful year for the organization.
The fiscal year 2022-23 that ended on June 30 had:
* Growth to $405 million in total assets
* $42.7 million in grants distributed
* $26 million in gifts received
* An 8.5 percent return on its investment portfolio
* Growth of its number of funds to 644
“We continue to be humbled and amazed at the generosity of Elkhart County and all those who play a role in nurturing the growth of our community and those who live in it,” said President Pete McCown in the release. “Elkhart County is a truly remarkable place and we are happy to help facilitate philanthropy of all types.”
Grant requests are reviewed by staff and volunteer committees comprised of a diverse range of community members who are engaged with their respective sectors and make every effort to be aware of emerging and ongoing initiatives.
“Our donors continue to be generous and direct giving to a range of causes,” said Director of Communications Marshall V. King by email. “The Fund for Elkhart County, which is our unrestricted fund, is the source for grants named in the press release. That fund has opportunities to grow and the interest from the investment of that fund allows us to respond to grant requests and to lead initiatives to help our community.”
Staff members can make decisions on grants of $25,000 or less and the board of the Community Foundation of Elkhart County approves all grants.
“We continue to be amazed at the generosity in Elkhart County and the many ways that people give to support our community,” King added. “Dozens of volunteers serve on our grant committees and board of directors to help guide how we invest in our community with these grants.”
Greg Conrad is president and executive director of Elkhart County Habitat for Humanity, which will receive $250,000.
“This award is really geared to allowing us to obtain more parcels of buildable land and lots, including the installation of needed infrastructure, to continue to build at an increased level of production,” Conrad said by phone Thursday. “This is a significant award for us.”
To learn more, visit www.InspiringGood.org.
Credit:Source link
