Community Foundation of North Central Florida secures $100k to benefit local LCAN program

Press release from the Community Foundation of North Central Florida

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The Community Foundation of North Central Florida is thrilled to announce the successful completion of a $50,000 match to secure an additional $50,000 grant, resulting in a total of $100,000 to benefit the Local College Access Network (LCAN) program. This significant achievement is made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Greater Gainesville Chamber Foundation, which runs the local LCAN, and the generous support from the community.

The $50,000 grant comes from the Florida Philanthropic Network’s College Access and Success Initiative (CASI 2.0) Challenge Grant, which aims to build capacity for foundations to support their College Access Network. The CASI 2.0 initiative seeks to expand educational opportunities and ensure every Floridian achieves an education beyond high school and a rewarding career. This grant is also supported by the Florida College Access Network, Helios Education Foundation, and The Kresge Foundation.

The local LCAN program, managed by the Greater Gainesville Chamber Foundation, includes impactful initiatives such as Florida College Decision Day and Cash for College. Florida College Decision Day celebrates high school seniors’ postsecondary plans and encourages younger students and families to prepare early for college. The Cash for College program offers assistance with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, helping students secure financial aid for their college education.

Ian Fletcher, Chief Operating Officer/VP of Education & Talent at the Greater Gainesville Chamber , expressed his gratitude and excitement, stating, “This grant is a tremendous boost for our local LCAN program. It will enable us to enhance our efforts in providing vital resources and support to underrepresented students in our community. Programs like Florida College Decision Day and Cash for College are critical in fostering educational equity, and this funding will play a crucial role in expanding these initiatives.”

Barzella Papa, President and CEO at the Community Foundation of North Central Florida , also shared her enthusiasm, saying, “We are incredibly proud to have raised the necessary funds to secure this matching grant. The community’s support is a testament to the importance of investing in our students’ futures. This grant will help us strengthen the infrastructure and sustainability of our LCAN program, ensuring long-term success and opportunities for all students.”

The funds will be allocated toward the LCAN-supporting endowment fund, development strategies, and supporting LCAN infrastructure and activities. The Community Foundation is dedicated to deepening the breadth of LCAN leadership groups and expanding donor and board knowledge of college access and equity issues.

The Community Foundation of North Central Florida and the Greater Gainesville Chamber Foundation look forward to the positive impact this grant will have on the local community and remain committed to supporting educational initiatives that foster success for all students.

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