February 2019

This Month's News & Updates

"People who care about their neighbors. Courage to face difficult issues with integrity. These are the ingredients that get a community foundation started. They also keep us going." Ann Lisi, GWCF President & CEO

Scholarship Application Deadline Approaches: March 4 Spread the word! Calling all college-bound high school seniors!

There's only one month left for Worcester County's high school seniors to submit applications for college tuition assistance for the 2019-2020 academic year. This is the ONLY scholarship application cycle offered by GWCF. Now is your chance to apply. The Foundation offers over 130 different scholarships which, last year, provided over $675,000 in awards. Contact Liz Nye at 508-755-0980 or scholar@greaterworcester.org with questions.

Application Deadline: March 4 Check it out now!

Save the Date for Winter Supper One of our favorite events for donors and friends is almost here We hope you'll join us on March 7 for an evening with some of our community's most interesting and innovative arts and culture organizations. Get to know our recent Creative Spark grantees and learn more about how the Foundation is enhancing creativity and promoting new connections across our community. RSVP to Kelly Stimson at 508.755.0980 or events@greaterworcester.org

Taking Steps: Jackie Williams Highlighting GWCF staff and their commitments beyond the job This month, we caught up with GWCF Administrative Assistant Jackie Williams about her election to the Board of Directors at Abby's House , an organization that provides shelter and services to women in need. GWCF: What does being part of this Board mean to you? JW: I was once a resident at Abby's House. The program offered me safety, support, new connections, and the time I needed to get back on my feet. I'm honored to be part of their Board. GWCF: What will you be able to offer through your role? JW: Through my work at GWCF, I've gained an understanding of the type of commitment required of Board members. In addition to being an active voice at the table, I hope to spread the message that no one should feel ashamed if they find themselves needing the types of services places like Abby's House offer. Anyone can end up on hard times. You don't think homelessness could happen to you until it does.

Jackie Williams has been a long-time volunteer for organizations she cares about. We're proud she's taking her service a step further as a member of the Board of Directors at Abby's House! Congratulations Jackie! But just because you're down, doesn't mean you have to stay down. We all fall down, but we get back up. GWCF: What do you most look forward to? JW: I've been a recipient of services and also a volunteer for nonprofits. This type of role is new to me though. I look forward to joining committees and learning more about what goes in to making programs happen. Most of all, I look forward to giving back by encouraging other women to see that your experiences are what make you stronger.

Foundation President & CEO Ann T. Lisi to depart on June 30, 2019 The Board has engaged executive search firm Isaacson Miller to manage candidate recruitment; the posting will soon be listed. Stay tuned for updates! Also, celebration planning is underway! (Hint: June 25, dinner.)

Ann's Announcement, Jan. 9, 2019, T&G

Foundation Blog: New Post! As you might have heard, this year brings big changes to the Foundation. After 30 years, I’ll be stepping down from this wonderful post. It’s a bittersweet transition, but change is something to be embraced. In efforts to get ready for the new, I’ve been unearthing the old... Read on!

Grant Programs Now Accepting Applications

Creative Engagement Grant Program Attention Worcester's nonprofit creative sector! This program directs financial and knowledge resources to empower grantees to develop innovative ways to increase engagement with diverse communities in Worcester, while at the same time building their capacity to more meaningfully serve the community. Deadline: March 15 Grant Guidelines

Fallon/OrNda Community Health Fund Deadline: March 29  This fund seeks to advance projects that increase access to healthcare or health promotion services that address the social determinants of health. Grant Guidelines Unibank September 11 Emergency Personnel Education Fund Deadline: March 29 This fund welcomes grant proposals from Blackstone Valley organizations seeking support for trainings and critical equipment purchases. Grant Guidelines

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Greater Worcester Community Foundation 508-755-0980 | info@greaterworcester.org | greaterworcester.org