GAR Foundation awards over $2 million to Akron-area nonprofit groups

The GAR Foundation has approved more than $2 million in grants to nonprofit groups in Greater Akron.

The foundation’s focus this quarter was on “the critical work of community development, particularly those revitalizing neighborhoods and addressing the unique needs of their residents and stakeholders.”

“By investing in our neighborhoods, we aim to cultivate safe, thriving communities where residents feel a strong sense of identity, belonging, and shared civic pride,” GAR Foundation President Christine Amer Mayer said in a prepared statement. “Community development organizations in Akron are key partners in achieving this vision, as they thoughtfully address the specific needs of the people they serve.”

Groups receiving support this quarter include:

• Akron 200 : $100,000 for operating and programming support
• Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank : $170,000 for multiyear operating support
• Akron Public Schools : $15,000 in operating support for Project Rise
• Akron Soul Train : $25,000 for operating support
• Akron Urban League : $125,000 for operating support
• ArtsNow : $170,000 for ArtsForward administration and grants
• Asian Services in Action : $60,000 for operating support
• Center for Immersive Leadership : $20,000 for operating support
• Curated Storefront : $25,000 for operating support
• Downtown Akron Partnership : $95,000 for operating support
• Early Childhood Resource Center : $150,000 for SPARK Akron program
• Greater Akron Musical Association : $160,000 for multiyear operating support
• Harmony House : $35,000 for operating support
• Haven of Rest : $50,000 for multiyear operating support
• LINKS Community & Family Services : $45,000 for operating support
• Love Akron ,: $90,000 for Locker Room Experience
• North Hill CDC : $70,000 for operating support
• Open Tone Music : $60,000 for operating support
• Summit Artspace : $50,000 for operating support
• United Way of Summit and Medina : $450,000 for Bold Goals 1 and 2
• Weathervane Community Playhouse : $100,000 for multiyear operating support
• The Well CDC : $45,000 for operating support

Galen Roush, co-founder and chief executive officer of Roadway Express, and his wife, Ruth Roush, established the GAR Foundation in 1967. The foundation’s mission is “to help Akron become smarter, stronger and more vibrant.”

Visit www.garfoundation.org for more information.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: GAR Foundation awards over $2 million to Akron-area nonprofit groups