The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County has announced almost $500,000 in funding to more than 40 local nonprofit organizations from its General Grants Program. More than $130,000 will address needs identified by several local arts and culture organizations.
“The goal of the General Grants Program has always been to provide funding for agencies that directly address community needs,” says Community Foundation CEO Heidi McPherson. “We are grateful for the opportunity to support these programs, and look forward to the important impact they will continue to have on our community.”
The following organizations will receive 2022 General Grants for the Arts:
- Cal Poly Corporation $14,919
- KCBX Inc. $15,000
- SLO Museum of Art $17,112
- SLO Wind Orchestra $14,000
- SLO Children’s Museum $15,000
- Studios on the Park $15,000
In addition, $40,000 in funding to support senior dance programs will be split equally between the Basin Street Regulars and Friends of SLO Botanical Garden.
For a complete list of recipients, visit the Community Foundation’s website.
As a way to further support stability and trust within SLO’s philanthropic sectors, a strategic decision was made by Foundation staff and board members to ensure that funding—and all future General Grants Program funds—are unrestricted. Starting this year, each grantee has the agency to determine how best to utilize its funding.
“Our grantees are the experts in their particular fields, and understand how best to leverage their grant awards for maximum impact,” said McPherson. “We’re proud of this new giving model and hope it provides our partners with the flexibility they need to reach their goals.”
Since 1998, the Community Foundation has awarded more than $56 million in grants and scholarships to nonprofit partners and local students. The Foundation’s charitable assets under management have grown to $77 million to support the community in perpetuity.