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We hope you can join us for the 13th Annual Northwest Ohio Nonprofit Excellence Awards ceremony on Thursday, October 26, 2023 at 8:00 a.m. Three winning organizations will be announced, one in each category: Excellence in Collaborative Programming, Excellence in Strategic Action and Excellence in Organizational Operations.

Thursday, October 26, at 8:00am - 9:30am at The Pinnacle, 1772 Indian Wood Circle, Maumee, OH.

Registration is open until October 16, 2023. Reserved seats, which include breakfast, are $20 each or $190 for a table of ten.

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Awards Ceremony Information

Local nonprofit organizations nominated themselves for these awards, and winners will be chosen by a committee comprised of sponsor representatives and a past recipient of the awards. Winners receive a one-of-a-kind glass award, $7,500 in unrestricted grant money from Greater Toledo Community Foundation and $1,000 in unrestricted grant money from The Andersons, plus a half-page ad in The Blade. 

Questions about the ceremony should be directed to Laura Sams at [email protected].

About the Awards

The Northwest Ohio Nonprofit Excellence Awards were designed to honor and recognize outstanding nonprofit organizations and their achievements in our community.

This year, awards will be given to three nonprofit organizations, one in each of the following categories:

• Excellence in Collaborative Programming
• Excellence in Strategic Action
• Excellence in Organizational Operations

Recipient Prizes

All Award Recipients will receive:

• The honor and distinction of being recognized as a leader among northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan’s nonprofits;
• A one-of-a-kind glass art award engraved with the organization’s name;
• An unrestricted grant from Greater Toledo Community Foundation in the amount of $7,500;
• An unrestricted grant in the amount of $1,000 from The Andersons;
• A half-page ad in The Blade; and
• A feature article highlighting the winning organizations in Greater Toledo Community Foundation's newsletter, and sharing of award winners via The Center for Nonprofit Resources’ e-newsletter and website.

Toledo, Ohio, August 17, 2023 — Greater Toledo Community Foundation (GTCF) is excited to announce, as part of its 50th anniversary celebration, it will be sponsoring a major Roofing Project, a Rock the Block event and a Community Party in support of the revitalization efforts in the Old South End.

First, the Roofing Project is a collaborative effort among Greater Toledo Community Foundation, Habitat for Humanity and Historic South Initiative. Funds from individual donors, government grants and in-kind donations will be used to support the project. During August and September, an estimated 20-25 roofs will be replaced, at no cost to homeowners in the Old South End, as well as two in the Old West End neighborhood.

Second, on Saturday, August 19^th, GTCF will sponsor a Rock the Block event that will take place at properties along South Avenue between Broadway and Sumner Street and will also include work at the Sofia Quintero Art and Cultural Center and Ashley Park. Rock the Blocks are a one-day event that brings people together to lift up a neighborhood and celebrate community. Volunteers will gather to complete projects like cleaning up parks, brush trimming, planting flowers, and light exterior repair projects.

Volunteers from Greater Toledo Community Foundation, Lourdes University, and Maumee Valley Habitat for Humanity will support the project by working in the neighborhood from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Volunteer registration will begin at 9:30 a.m. at the Marshall STEMM Academy, 415 Colburn Street.

Finally, after Rock the Block, the entire community is invited to celebrate from 1 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. at Golden Rule Park (500 Crittenden) for a FREE party that includes food, fun, and resources for the family. Also, Argentine American artist and sculptor Cecilia Lueza, who has been commissioned to create the artwork along the Broadway Mile, will be in attendance to discuss her work with the local community.

All are welcome to volunteer in the morning and join the after party—both events are family friendly.

“Preserving homes, and creating vibrant livable neighborhoods, is critical work that needs to be done in our community,” said Michael McIntyre, executive director of Maumee Valley Habitat for Humanity. “We are proud to work alongside the Greater Toledo Community Foundation and the Historic South Initiative who are ensuring revitalization continues in South Toledo and across the entire city. Street by street, block by block, this impactful work makes such a difference.”

“We are incredibly grateful for the partnership and support shown by Greater Toledo Community Foundation in bringing these projects to Old South End. This collaboration exemplifies the true spirit of community and demonstrates how we can achieve remarkable impact when we unite for a common cause,” stated Carl Wagner, president of the Board of Historic South Initiative. “Together, we are empowering the residents of this underserved neighborhood to build a foundation of hope and opportunity, providing them with the tools to transform their lives for the better. We are hopeful that this collaboration among Greater Toledo Community Foundation, Habitat for Humanity and Historic South Initiative will inspire others to join us in our mission to uplift and revitalize the Old South End community, one project at a time.”

“Greater Toledo Community Foundation firmly believes that access to safe and decent housing is a fundamental human right, and it is our responsibility to support communities in need. We are excited about this partnership with Maumee Valley Habitat for Humanity and Historic South Initiative as, together, we aim to create transformative change and empower families to build a brighter future for themselves,” said Keith Burwell, president of Greater Toledo Community Foundation. “By working together, we can break the cycle of poverty and help cultivate thriving neighborhoods where every individual can flourish.” 

For more information, please visit https://50yearsfortoledo.com/.

About “Fifty Years of Funding Futures”

“Fifty Years of Funding Futures” is the 50th-anniversary campaign for Greater Toledo Community Foundation (GTCF). Through its five decades of service, GTCF has been trusted to distribute more than $310 million in grants to Toledo area nonprofits and beyond. GTCF now holds more than 950 funds and approximately $435 million in assets with the goal of creating a better community for generations to come.

Through a yearlong campaign, GTCF’s “Fifty Years of Funding Futures” will deliver meaningful communications, events and programs centering on honoring the past, celebrating the present and equipping future generations for continued community impact. For more information, visit 50YearsForToledo.com.

About Greater Toledo Community Foundation

Greater Toledo Community Foundation is the largest philanthropic organization serving the Toledo region, including northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan with a particular emphasis on the greater Toledo area. Since 1973, Greater Toledo Community Foundation has worked with individuals, families and businesses, assisting them in making effective choices that match their philanthropic interests and needs while creating a better community for generations to come. For more information, visit toledocf.org/.

About Maumee Valley Habitat for Humanity                                                        

Maumee Valley Habitat for Humanity (MVHFH) works in Lucas County to fulfill Habitat for Humanity’s vision of a world where everyone has a decent place to live. MVHFH’s Homeownership program creates opportunities for affordable homeownership by building and selling homes with a 0% interest mortgage to qualified Habitat homebuyers. MVHFH’s Home Preservation programs, focused on the neighborhoods of East Toledo, Englewood, Junction

and South Toledo, help qualifying homeowners replace roofs, abate lead, and bring homes to current code standards.

Learn more at mvhabitat.org. 

About Historic South Initiative

Historic South Initiative develops bold, long-term, measurable strategies and facilitates partnerships to promote the ongoing development of a vibrant, thriving neighborhood in Toledo’s Old South End. The Historic South Initiative consists of four major efforts: rehabilitation of housing, primary and adult education, augmentation of community services, and creation of jobs and employment opportunities.

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TOLEDO, OHIO, April 7, 2023 – Greater Toledo Community Foundation is pleased to announce the 2023 recipients of the Mr. and Mrs. William Block, Jr. Scholarship. The scholarships are provided by William Block, Jr. in memory of Carol Z. Block, his wife of 50 years who passed away in June, 2020.

This scholarship, awarded first in 2017, provides twenty (20) $4,000 scholarship awards annually to individuals who graduate from a high school located in Wood or Lucas County, OH, who are pursuing a two or four-year undergraduate degree at Bowling Green State University, Lourdes University, Owens Community College or The University of Toledo. Recipients of this scholarship are eligible to receive the award for two consecutive years. The 2023 recipients are:

First-time recipients:
• Nathan Araiza, Woodward High School, attending The University of Toledo
• Jaden Bollinger, Southview High School, attending The University of Toledo
• Jackson Burnworth, Northview High School, attending The University of Toledo
• Edison Eschedor, Bowling Green High School, attending Bowling Green State University
• Grayson Gallaher, Clay High School, attending The University of Toledo
• Salah Hamdah, Toledo Early College, attending The University of Toledo
• Joseph Hover, Bowling Green High School, attending The University of Toledo
• Jackson Kamm, Evergreen High School, attending The University of Toledo
• Kristen Krolak, Northview High School, attending Bowling Green State University
• Jennifer LaLonde, Toledo Early College, attending The University of Toledo
• Madgalena Meszaros, Bowling Green High School, attending Bowling Green State University
• Jenna Ramsey, Emmanuel Christian High School, attending Lourdes University
• Taylee Wachowiak, Northview High School, attending Bowling Green State University

Renewal recipients:
• Mary Eby, Southview High School, attending The University of Toledo
• Vanessa Hernandez, Toledo School for the Arts, attending The University of Toledo
• Andrew Kish, Perrysburg High School, attending Bowling Green State University
• James Kolopajlo, Northview High School, attending Lourdes University
• Bailey Price, Whitmer High School, attending The University of Toledo
• Cierra Ruelle, Maumee High School, attending The University of Toledo
• Callie Schramm, Southview High School, attending The University of Toledo

This $1 million scholarship fund, managed by Greater Toledo Community Foundation, was established in 2016 by William and Carol Block to support students from Lucas and Wood counties who attend one of four area universities. It will distribute 20 scholarships each year for 20 years, with eligibility for renewal for an additional year.

Application for the Mr. and Mrs. William Block, Jr. Scholarship of the Greater Toledo Community Foundation can be made online via the Foundation’s website between November 1 and February 11. Eligible applicants must plan to be full-time college students at one of the four qualifying colleges. The Scholarship Advisory Committee that reviews applications will consider grade point average as well as community involvement, such as volunteer experiences and/or paid employment, and need for financial assistance in order to continue education.

For further information about the Foundation’s scholarship program, visit https://www.toledocf.org/scholarships/.

Greater Toledo Community Foundation is a public charitable organization created by citizens of our community to enrich the quality of life for individuals and families in our area. In existence since 1973, the Foundation has more than 950 funds with assets of approximately $364 million. The Foundation provides philanthropic services for individuals, families, businesses and corporations to meet their charitable giving needs. For more information about Toledo Community Foundation, visit www.toledocf.org or follow us on Facebook or LinkedIn.

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We hope you can join us for the 12th Annual Northwest Ohio Nonprofit Excellence Awards ceremony on Thursday, October 20, 2022 at 8:00 a.m. Three winning organizations will be announced, one in each category: Excellence in Collaborative Programming, Excellence in Strategic Action and Excellence in Organizational Operations.

Thursday, October 20, at 8:00am - 9:30am at The Premier Banquet Hall, 4480 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo. Registration is closed.

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Awards Ceremony Information

Local nonprofit organizations nominated themselves for these awards, and winners will be chosen by a committee comprised of sponsor representatives and a past recipient of the awards. Winners receive a one-of-a-kind glass award, $7,500 in unrestricted grant money from Greater Toledo Community Foundation and $1,000 in unrestricted grant money from The Andersons, plus a half-page ad in The Blade. 

Questions about the ceremony should be directed to Laura Sams at [email protected].

About the Awards

The Northwest Ohio Nonprofit Excellence Awards were designed to honor and recognize outstanding nonprofit organizations and their achievements in our community.

This year, awards will be given to three nonprofit organizations, one in each of the following categories:

• Excellence in Collaborative Programming
• Excellence in Strategic Action
• Excellence in Organizational Operations

Recipient Prizes

All Award Recipients will receive:

• The honor and distinction of being recognized as a leader among northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan’s nonprofits;
• A one-of-a-kind glass art award engraved with the organization’s name;
• An unrestricted grant from Greater Toledo Community Foundation in the amount of $7,500;
• An unrestricted grant in the amount of $1,000 from The Andersons;
• A half-page ad in The Blade; and
• A feature article highlighting the winning organizations in Greater Toledo Community Foundation's newsletter, and sharing of award winners via The Center for Nonprofit Resources’ e-newsletter and website.

Greater Toledo Community Foundation and The Blade, in partnership with The Center for Nonprofit Resources, announce the 2022 Northwest Ohio Nonprofit Excellence Awards. Applications for the excellence awards were accepted until midnight on May 31, 2022. 

Local nonprofit organizations were encouraged to nominate themselves for the awards by completing an application between by May 31, 2022. Winners will be announced on Thursday, October 20, 2022 at a special breakfast ceremony. Winners receive a one-of-a-kind glass award, a $7,500 unrestricted grant from Greater Toledo Community Foundation and a $1,000 unrestricted grant from The Andersons, plus a half-page ad in The Blade. 

About the Awards

The Blade and Greater Toledo Community Foundation, in partnership with The Center for Nonprofit Resources, are pleased to announce a refreshed iteration of the Nonprofit Innovation & Excellence Awards - now called the Northwest Ohio Nonprofit Excellence Awards. The Awards are designed to honor and recognize outstanding nonprofit organizations and their achievements in our community.

Awards will be given to three nonprofit organizations, one in each of the following categories (note the new categories for this year):

• Excellence in Collaborative Programming
• Excellence in Strategic Action
• Excellence in Organizational Operations

Awards Eligibility and Criteria

In each category, applicant organizations should meet the following general eligibility criteria: 

• Applicant must be a nonprofit organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service Code and based in northwest Ohio or southeast Michigan.
• Organizations may apply for, and are eligible to win in, more than one award category, but must submit a separate application for each category and must address the criteria specific to each award.
• Once an organization has received an award, that organization will become ineligible for that same award for the following three years.

All organizations are required to submit due diligence documentation with their online application to Greater Toledo Community Foundation. Documentation includes: 

• A copy of the organizational budget for the current fiscal year;
• A copy of the audited financial statements for the most recent year available – if unavailable, the unaudited income and expense statement and balance sheet must be provided;
• A list of board members with affiliations; and
• A copy of the applicant’s tax exemption letter from the Internal Revenue Service.

The submission must include:

• A high quality electronic version of the organization’s logo, and 
• Three original electronic high resolution photos (300 DPI or higher) that depict the organization’s mission and services.

These items will be used as part of the award ceremony for organizations selected as finalists. Winners will not be announced in advance of the ceremony. As part of the review process, any applicant may be requested to submit additional supplemental information.

AWARDS CRITERIA

Excellence in Collaborative Programming

This award showcases a joint initiative that leverages the skills and resources of multiple nonprofit partners to deliver excellent service to residents of northwest Ohio or southeast Michigan. Creative partnerships lead to greater impact in the community by reaching underserved audiences and avoiding duplication of service. Applications that clearly address the following will receive priority consideration: 

• Description – Provide a description of the specific project for which the application is being made. Include details about how the project represents a creative solution to a community challenge.
• Collaboration – Fully describe all partners contributing to project success including, but not limited to, nonprofit organizations, businesses, governmental agencies or funders. 
• Results – Provide a description of how the project is evaluated and what measurable, positive results have ensued.

Applications for the Excellence in Collaborative Programming Award were accepted until midnight on May 31, 2022. 

Please note, there is only one application. Within the application, organizations choose which category they wish to apply for; if an organization wishes to apply for two awards, they will need to complete and submit two separate applications.

Excellence in Strategic Action

This award highlights organizations that have strategically expanded programming or pivoted to a new service delivery model to better meet a community need. Priority consideration will be given to projects that utilized data and metrics to identify a gap in service, aligned with community-wide planning efforts to ensure activities did not duplicate existing services and successfully implemented and sustained the expansion. It is anticipated that projects will still be active and have completed the strategic action within the past five years, but the committee will consider older initiatives as well.  Applications that address the following will receive priority consideration:

• Description – Describe how the opportunity for expansion or a new approach to service delivery was identified.  Detail the planning and implementation process. Clearly identify the need that was addressed through the strategic action including, but not limited to, reaching participants in an underserved geography, reaching a specific demographic or pursuing a policy change, etc. Note how the action has been sustained.
• Results – Describe how success is measured.  Include any metrics that illustrate impact.

Applications for the Excellence in Strategic Action Award were accepted until midnight on May 31, 2022. 

Please note, there is only one application. Within the application, organizations choose which category they wish to apply for; if an organization wishes to apply for two awards, they will need to complete and submit two separate applications.

Excellence in Organizational Operations

This award recognizes organizations for overall excellence. The strongest applications will demonstrate active involvement by staff, board members, volunteers and constituents in advancing the mission of the organization.  Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) nonprofit status for at least five years and have a local governance and management structure in place. Applications that cite examples of best practices within the following areas will receive priority consideration:

• Governance – Provide examples that demonstrate organizational excellence in board management and engagement.
• Financial Management & Fundraising – Provide examples that show the organization’s financial management is strong, transparent and accountable.  Describe the organization's development strategies including adherence to best practices and donor centered approaches.
• Evaluation/Community Impact – Cite examples of how outcome data is used to achieve the organization’s mission and how this impacts the community.

Applications for the Excellence in Organizational Operations Award were accepted until midnight on May 31, 2022. 

Please note, there is only one application. Within the application, organizations choose which category they wish to apply for; if an organization wishes to apply for two awards, they will need to complete and submit two separate applications.

Print a copy of these Grant Guidelines here.

Awards Selection Process & Timeline

The award application deadline was Tuesday, May 31, 2022. Award applications must be submitted through Greater Toledo Community Foundation’s online application process. Award applications must be received by midnight of the application deadline.

Selection Committee

A GTCF selection committee comprised of past winners and community members with knowledge of area nonprofits will review the applications and select award winners in each category.

Recipient Prizes

All Award Recipients will receive:

• The honor and distinction of being recognized as a leader among northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan’s nonprofits;
• A one-of-a-kind glass art award engraved with the organization’s name;
• An unrestricted grant from Greater Toledo Community Foundation in the amount of $7,500;
• An unrestricted grant in the amount of $1,000 from The Andersons;
• A half-page ad in The Blade;
• A feature article highlighting the winning organizations in Greater Toledo Community Foundation‘s newsletter, and sharing of award winners via The Center for Nonprofit Resources’ e-newsletter and website; and
• One table for ten (at no charge) to the recognition event to be held on Thursday, October 20, 2022.

Awards Ceremony Information

Awards will be presented to winning organizations at the Northwest Ohio Nonprofit Excellence Awards ceremony and breakfast on Thursday, October 20, 2022. Questions about the ceremony should be directed to Laura Sams at [email protected].
                                   

Presented By:

2021 Results

TOLEDO, OHIO, January 21, 2022 – #GivingTuesday™ is a global day of giving, and happens on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving each year. This day of giving is fueled by the power of social media and collaboration.

Greater Toledo Community Foundation, in partnership with The Blade and The Center for Nonprofit Resources, introduced #GivingTuesdayNWO in 2013 to encourage nonprofits to begin online giving programs and encourage donors to make local giving a priority. Year over year, this day of giving has seen remarkable efforts to involve the business community and build capacity of local nonprofits, especially small grassroots nonprofits.

For the ninth year, our local nonprofit organizations have benefitted  by this giving day. Results obtained through an online survey (49 organizations self-reported) prove that local nonprofits raised $269,095 on November 30, 2021. In addition, Greater Toledo Community Foundation (GTCF) provided $10,000 to fund two unrestricted grants for local nonprofit organizations participating in GivingTuesdayNWO. The combined efforts of the Foundation and our local nonprofits resulted in more than $279,000 being distributed to worthy causes in Toledo and northwest Ohio.

According to #GivingTuesday™ movement headquarters (givingtuesday.org), a more complete reporting, estimated results in our area for 2021 are:

• Lucas County – 6,503 contributions totaling $807,013
• Toledo Metro Area – 9,835 contributions totaling $1,185,504
• Ohio – 219,582 contributions totaling $30,325,462

#GivingTuesday™ will take place this year on November 29, 2022.

TOLEDO, OHIO, January 13, 2022 – The Center for Nonprofit Resources (The Center), a program of Greater Toledo Community Foundation, graduated the ninth cohort of its Minority Executive Leadership Program this week. Through a series of high-quality professional development workshops facilitated by both national and local speakers and mentorships with community leaders, participants receive training, networking opportunities and ongoing support for personal and professional success. This is the ninth year of the program, which has graduated 59 people since 2013. Eight participants took part in a minimum of 30 hours of professional development and mentoring between July and December. 

Graduates of the 2021 Minority Executive Leadership Program include:

• Carla Benjamin, Welcome to a New Life (Findlay, OH).
• Kelly Davis, Maumee Valley Habitat for Humanity;
• Kathleen Greely, Community RE Investment Coalition - Englewood SW;
• Earl Harris, Vision Church;
• Rochelle Morrishaw, Women Helping Encouraging Women aka WHEW, Inc.;
• KaTrice Perry, Gateway Youth Development Program;
• Sierra Webb, Toledo-Lucas County Public Library; and,
• Reggie Williams, Frederick Douglass Community Association.

MEL participant Sierra Webb reflected on this opportunity saying “through this program, I have gained an unbelievable amount of support, education and mentorship in the community, and I am so thankful for the opportunity.” Like a number of other participants, she commented how all in this cohort are connected  with each other. “This is an investment in myself. It was done in a fun way and we connected with each other. There was a lot of learning done, and in a safe space that allowed for candid discussion and sharing.”

The Certificate Program was started in 2013 as a result of community leaders of color on the Sustainable Strategies Committee identifying the need for a program that supports emerging minority nonprofit leaders, current nonprofit CEOs/Executive Directors and staff interested in growing into leadership positions. The Committee, led by Doni Miller, worked with The Center to design the program, which looks to build organizational sustainability to transform our community. The goal is to help participants develop their professional skills, better serve as employees in their current positions and be effective nonprofit leaders. This program is sponsored in part by The Andersons.

The Center will begin accepting applications for the next cohort in Spring 2022.

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About The Center for Nonprofit Resources

Greater Toledo Community Foundation initiated The Center for Nonprofit Resources in 2003 to improve capacity building for area nonprofits. The work of The Center includes an information and resource center, high quality professional development with certificate programs and one-on-one short-term consulting for nonprofit agencies in our region, as well as providing assistance for grant programs around strategic alliances to support nonprofit sustainability.

For further information about the Minority Executive Leadership Program, contact Milva Valenzuela Wagner, Director, The Center for Nonprofit Resources, 300 Madison Ave., Suite 1300, Toledo, OH 43604, phone: 419.241.9513, email [email protected] or visit https://c4npr.org/be-a-nonprofit-leader/c4npr-minority-executive-leadership-certificate-program/.

TOLEDO, OHIO, January 5, 2022 – Keith Burwell, president of Greater Toledo Community Foundation, is pleased to announce the hiring of Brianna (Bri) Ortiz and the promotion of Jesse Stock.

Bri Ortiz joined the Foundation in May 2021 as a Marketing Intern, and was recently offered full-time, employee status as the Foundation’s Marketing Associate. This is a newly created position, and reflects the growth of the Foundation and the need for additional staff resources. Bri graduated from The University of Toledo in May with a degree in Marketing. She reports to Joanne Olnhausen, Director of Marketing & Communications.

Jesse Stock has been promoted to Philanthropic Services Officer. Jesse joined GTCF in March 2020 as a Philanthropic Services Coordinator, and has been working closely with fundholders to manage those relationships as well as bring new business to the Foundation.  Prior to joining GTCF, he served as Program Director for the Athens County Foundation.  Jesse reports to Mike Greer, Vice President, Philanthropic Services & Advancement.

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About Greater Toledo Community Foundation

Greater Toledo Community Foundation is a public charitable organization created by citizens of our community to enrich the quality of life for individuals and families in our area. In existence since 1973, the Foundation has more than 920 funds with assets of approximately $412 million. The Foundation provides philanthropic services for individuals, families, businesses and corporations to meet their charitable giving needs. For more information about Greater Toledo Community Foundation, visit www.toledocf.org or follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

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Foundation grants more than $20 million year-to-date in grants and scholarships

TOLEDO, OH, December 20, 2021 – The Board of Trustees of Greater Toledo Community Foundation approved $1,117,119 from various grant funds at its December Board of Trustees meeting. Primarily supporting northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan, the Foundation and its donors have disbursed more than $20 million in grants and scholarships in the community year-to-date.

With assets of $412 million invested, Greater Toledo Community Foundation distributes grants of approximately $18-$20 million annually to causes important to the Toledo region.

The following grants were recently approved from competitive grant and field of interest funds:

Community Funds Impact Grants – a total of $247,672 was awarded to four organizations. The Community Funds Impact Grants program provides seed money for new, innovative programming that addresses unmet community needs.

• Catholic Charities of Jackson, Lenawee & Hillsdale Counties – $50,000 was awarded to support trauma assessment services for children in Lenawee County.

• Hospital Council of Northwest Ohio – $89,650 was awarded to support the Regional Advance Care Planning project.

• Partners for Clean Streams – $51,452 was awarded to support the Community Water Action Project, a multi-agency collaboration that engages citizen volunteers to collect information and monitor water quality in the Lake Erie basin.

• Toledo Zoological Society – $56,570 was awarded to support the Diversity in Field Conservation career exploration program that will offer high school students and recent graduates hands-on paid field experiences in science, technology, engineering and
mathematics.

The next deadline for Community Funds Impact Grant proposals is January 15, 2022.

First Solar Community Giving Fund – a total of $60,000 was awarded to four organizations. Grants from the First Solar Community Giving Fund are made to nonprofit organizations that support “green” education initiatives, support access to clean energy and water in underserved areas, and support furthering development of innovative and sustainable technologies.
• ¬¬Cleveland Water Alliance – $20,000 to support Toledo-related expenses of Erie Hack, a think-tank to address technology-based water quality issues.

• VProject – $20,000 to support Covid-19 vaccination outreach awareness efforts for northwest Ohio.

• RE-volv - $15,000 to support the collegiate Solar Ambassador Fellowship program.

• The Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges - $5,000 to support the First Solar Corporation Scholarship Program.

The next deadline for First Solar grant proposals is February 1, 2022.

Fund for the Elderly – a total of $153,400 was awarded to nine organizations. The Fund for the Elderly supports programs assisting senior citizens, with a priority for projects that enable the elderly to live as independently as possible.
• The Ability Center of Greater Toledo – $25,000 was awarded to provide assistive technology to elderly persons with disabilities living in rural counties.

• Habitat for Humanity, Maumee Valley – $15,000 was awarded to support the home repair program.

• Hospice of Northwest Ohio – $25,000 was awarded to support Sincera Palliative Care.

• MemoryLane Care Services – $25,000 was awarded to support services for older adults diagnosed with dementia, their families and caregivers.

• Mobile Meals of Toledo, Inc. – $25,000 was awarded to support the Meal Client Assistance Program.

• Ohio Living Foundation – $12,400 was awarded to support the Virtual Reality Initiative which offers new avenues for individuals to connect with family and friends, increase their mobility and engage in the arts.

• Ottawa County Family Advocacy Center, Inc. – $8,000 was awarded to recruit and match volunteer companions to assist seniors in maintaining their independence.

• The Sight Center of Northwest Ohio – $10,000 was awarded to support low vision services for seniors.

• VOICEcorps Reading Service – $8,000 was awarded to support over-the-air reading services.

The Sisters of St. Francis (Sylvania) Foundation Donor Advised Fund – a total of $505,350 was awarded to 17 organizations. Grants from the Sisters of St. Francis (Sylvania) Foundation Donor Advised Fund support programs which aid in the fight against human trafficking and/or offer support to its victims; offer support to immigrants and refugees; advance social justice and equal access to opportunity through other programs and strategies; and sustain and renew efforts related to creation and its gifts (ecology, environment, preservation and earth science, etc.).

• Advocates for Basic Legal Equality, Inc. – $50,000 was awarded to support the Immigration Advocacy Project.

• Beach House dba Leading Families Home – $50,000 was awarded to support the PAST project for survivors of human trafficking.

• Bittersweet Farms – $20,000 was awarded to support the Creative Arts program.

• Cherry Street Mission Ministries – $10,000 was awarded to provide shelter care services to women escaping human trafficking.

• Habitat for Humanity-Maumee Valley – $25,000 was awarded to support the home repair program.

• Heartbeat of Toledo – $40,000 was awarded to support the Your First Look program.

• La Conexion – $30,000 was awarded to support the Immigrant Rights project.

• Lourdes University – $50,000 was awarded to support the Like Me program, which is dedicated to diversifying the local educator workforce by recruiting, preparing and supporting students of color for careers in teaching.

• Lutheran Social Services of Northwest Ohio – $11,322 was awarded to support the re-entry program that helps ex-offenders successfully transition back into society.

• Partners for Clean Streams – $17,535 was awarded to support the Clean Your Streams program.

• SewHope – $9,000 was awarded to support the SewHope Academic Enrichment Program in Santa Ana, Guatemala.

• Sisters of St. Francis of Tiffin – $55,693 was awarded to support Project Hope-Proyecto Esperanza.

• Social Services for the Arab Community – $15,000 was awarded to support the Ahlan Wa Sahlan (Welcome) program.

• The Sight Center of Northwest Ohio – $21,800 was awarded to support the Blind Ambition program that helps visually-impaired individuals to secure employment.

• Toledo GROWS – $20,000 was awarded to support community garden programming.

• Water for Ishmael – $30,000 was awarded to support the American School for Women program.

• Zepf Center – $50,000 was awarded to support the Safety Net Emergency Shelter program for youth at-risk of human trafficking exploitation.

Margaret Toth Fund – a total of $103,990 was awarded to two organizations. The Margaret Toth Fund supports programming that provides services for the blind and visually impaired allowing them to live as independently as possible.
• Prevent Blindness, Ohio Affiliate - $40,000 was awarded to support Vison Care Outreach services in northwest Ohio.

• The Sight Center of Northwest Ohio - $63,990 was awarded to support blind and low vision rehabilitative services.

Toledo Walleye Hockey Club’s Wishing Well Fund – a total of $46,707 was awarded to 10 organizations. Grants from the Toledo Walleye Hockey Club’s Wishing Well Fund are made to nonprofit organizations providing programming that promotes overall fitness and wellness of children during cold weather months.
• Adaptive Sports Ohio - $7,500 to purchase adaptive sports equipment to support a sled hockey program for youth with physical disabilities.

• After-School All-Stars Ohio - $5,000 to support a street hockey camp program.

• Anne Grady Services - $8,407 to purchase bike safety equipment and install a course trail for special needs children.

• Believe Center - $5,000 to purchase youth basketball league equipment.

• Girl Scouts of Western Ohio - $3,500 to support equipment upkeep and program participant enrollment in outdoor education program.

• Justice for Sierah, Inc. - $5,000 to support self-defense course programs at Toledo Public Schools and Washington Local Schools.

• Lutheran Social Services of Northwest Ohio - $1,500 to support a yoga and fitness program for Scott High School students.

• The Leipsic Community Center - $4,300 to purchase basketball equipment.

• Toledo Lucas County Police Athletic League, Inc. - $5,000 to support academic enrichment programs.

• Toledo Public Schools - $1,500 to support nutrition and gardening program at Marshall STEMM Academy.

The next deadline for Wishing Well Fund grant proposals is September 15, 2022.

In addition to the grants approved, the Board of Directors authorized significant funds to continue the Equity & Access Initiative started two years ago. This Initiative will continue for an additional three years with funding in the amount of $100,000 per year, bringing the Foundation’s investment in Equity & Access to over $600,000 in five years. The Foundation created the Equity & Access Initiative Fund to proactively address the concerns raised by communities that are disproportionately impacted by inequity and lack of access in the Greater Toledo area. Local nonprofit organizations that are addressing these issues are encouraged to apply for funding.

The next deadline for Equity & Access Initiative Fund grant proposals is August 21, 2022.

Details and applications for all of the Foundation’s funding opportunities, and more, can be found here: https://www.toledocf.org/grants-2/.

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About Greater Toledo Community Foundation
Greater Toledo Community Foundation is a public charitable organization created by citizens of our community to enrich the quality of life for individuals and families in our area. In existence since 1973, the Foundation has more than 900 funds with assets of approximately $412 million. The Foundation provides philanthropic services for individuals, families, businesses and corporations to meet their charitable giving needs. For more information about Greater Toledo Community Foundation, visit www.toledocf.org or follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

TOLEDO, OHIO, Wednesday, November 10, 2021 –The Stranahan Supporting Organization of the Greater Toledo Community Foundation recently awarded grants totaling $402,913 to 12 organizations and initiatives:

Grants were made to:

• Baby University – $35,000 was awarded for parenting workshops and home visitation services.

• Black Swamp Conservancy – $32,160 was awarded to support Land Management services.

• Food for Thought Toledo, Inc. – $6,400 was awarded to purchase fresh produce for its mobile food pantry.

• Franciscan Shelters dba Bethany House – $41,422 was awarded to support transitional shelter services for victims of domestic violence.

• Friends of Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge – $48,100 was awarded to construct accessible trails at the Fox Unit area of the refuge.

• Hope Toledo – $50,000 was awarded to support the Pre-K Initiative.

• Ohio Guidestone – $20,714 was awarded to support the expansion of the expressive arts program.

• The Fair Housing Center – $11,727 was awarded to support the Landlord-Tenant Mediation outreach project.

• Tutor Smart – $52,000 was awarded to support tutoring services.  

• University of Toledo Foundation – The Ryan White Program – $30,000 was awarded to support basic needs assistance for patients with HIV.

• Unruly Arts – $45,390 was awarded to support the Digital Arts Program.

• YMCA and JCC of Greater Toledo – $30,000 was awarded to support programming at the Wayman Palmer YMCA.