Community Foundation Tampa Bay Awards Over $2.2 Million to Nonprofits

News Summary

The Community Foundation Tampa Bay has awarded more than $2.2 million to 84 nonprofit projects addressing pressing community needs, focusing on areas like economic opportunity and health. The foundation’s competitive selection process received 363 applications, with 20% from first-time applicants. Celebrating 35 years of community impact, they emphasize resilience post-hurricanes and collaboration with fundholders to allocate support effectively.

Community Foundation Tampa Bay Awards Over $2.2 Million to Nonprofits

Greater Tampa Bay, FL – The Community Foundation Tampa Bay is making a significant impact in the local community by awarding over $2.2 million to 84 nonprofit projects aimed at addressing critical community needs. This funding seeks to support initiatives across five key areas: economic opportunity, environmental resiliency and sustainability, physical and mental health and wellbeing, quality youth education, and vibrant and engaged communities.

According to Brandi Sanchez, the Senior Director of Community Investment at the foundation, these focus areas were determined through extensive conversations within the community. Throughout the region, councils made up of local leaders and volunteers assist the foundation in identifying pressing community needs, ensuring that the grants effectively address those issues.

The selection process for grant recipients is competitive; this year, the foundation received 363 applications from various organizations, marking a 20% representation of first-time applicants. A dedicated panel of 50 reviewers meticulously assessed each application to determine the most deserving projects.

Resilience Post-Hurricanes

In light of the recent challenges faced by local organizations, particularly due to the impacts of hurricanes, Sanchez emphasized the resilience demonstrated by these nonprofits. The foundation continues to prioritize support for organizations within the community, recognizing the ongoing need for assistance as they recover and adapt to changing circumstances.

Support from Fundholders

The Community Foundation Tampa Bay collaborates with various fundholders, including individuals, families, and companies, to facilitate grant allocations. Some fundholders delegate the decision-making process to the foundation, while others specify which causes and organizations should receive their support.

Highlighted Grant Recipients

Among the organizations awarded grants this year are several noteworthy recipients:

• Florida Audubon Society received $25,000 for its Reducing Fishing Debris Program, which aims to protect waterbirds in Pinellas County.
• AdventHealth Foundation was awarded $52,000 for the Exploring Health Program, designed to support individuals pursuing careers in the healthcare field.
• MacDonald Training Center, Inc. received $50,000 for its CommUNITY Works Program, providing job training for individuals with disabilities.

Celebrating 35 Years of Community Impact

This year marks the 35th anniversary of the Community Foundation Tampa Bay, an organization that has committed over $1 billion to enhance the future of the local community. In addition to grant-making, the foundation offers a Critical Needs List, connecting nonprofits with potential donors, as well as assistance in establishing endowments and providing scholarships for students.

The staff at the Community Foundation Tampa Bay remains committed to supporting the greater Pinellas County area and its evolving needs, ensuring that community organizations continue to thrive and serve residents effectively.

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Additional Resources

• St. Pete Catalyst: Community Foundation Awards Over $2.2 Million to Nonprofits
• WTSP: Hillsborough County Hurricane Grants Input
• Buccaneers: Glazer Family Announces Small Business Fund Program
• ABC Action News: Glazer Family Small Business Fund Boosts Local Businesses
• Wikipedia: Community Foundation