August 2018
This Month's News & Updates
Wondering what's in store when we engage leaders from diverse backgrounds,
celebrate creativity and embrace innovative programs?
Stick with us. You'll see.
The Torch Has Been Passed!

Leadership Worcester's Class of 2019 has been selected! Participants of the program's 4th cohort are a diverse group of professionals who represent a range of backgrounds, experiences and industry sectors. What they have in common is a desire to learn about their community and be a leader in its betterment.

Leadership Worcester, a collaboration between GWCF and the Worcester Chamber of Commerce, is aimed at supporting the next generation of thinkers and doers as they build skills and make connections.
Last year's Leadership Worcester Class (pictured) included professionals from organizations such as The Hanover Insurance Group, The Health Foundation of Central MA, and many more.

Final Community Grant Program Orientation
Session Coming Up!

Whether you're new to the Foundation or in need of a refresher, learn more about our largest grant opportunity, the Community Grant Program, at an orientation session:

AUGUST 21, 12-1pm
Greater Worcester Community Foundation
370 Main Street, Suite 650, Worcester, MA

Community Grant Applications are due September 15, 2018!
Creative Community Engagement Program Awards Over $300K

In its pilot year, the Creative Community Engagement Program is one element of the Foundation’s Creative Worcester initiative, a project launched in partnership with the Barr Foundation.

This grant program is intended to help selected arts organizations strengthen capacity and develop innovative ways to increase engagement with the diverse communities that represent Worcester’s changing demographics.

 This year's recipients are:

ArtsWorcester
Crocodile River Music
Main IDEA/Render Creative
Music Worcester
Worcester Chamber Music Society
Grantee Spotlight!
Crocodile River Music
With this grant, Crocodile River Music will enhance their outreach efforts, ultimately creating a roster of African performing artists from among Worcester’s immigrant and refugee communities, and then connecting those artists with performance and teaching opportunities.

Photo Credit: Crocodile River Music
There's Still Time for Some Summer Site-Seeing!

Our Outreach & Education Site Visitors program takes you behind the scenes of
our grantee organizations. With GWCF as your guide, you'll meet top agency leaders, learn about challenges impacting our communities, and see first-hand how services are delivered are some of the region's most impactful nonprofits.

This August, we're visiting organizations that address issues of hunger and the environment! Join us at:

August 9, 11am
Save the Date for a Site Visit with a Twist!
College Readiness Roundtable: Wednesday, Sept. 5, 5-7pm

For a number of years, the Foundation has funded a set of college readiness programs through our Community Grant Program. For one night only, we are bringing together representatives from all of these programs to share with attendees their important work and what it means for participants.

Attendees will hear how each of the programs vary in their approach and service population, as well as what each of these providers see as both challenges and opportunities when it comes to getting Worcester teens ready for college.
August 31 - September 9
POW! WOW! Worcester's 2018 Return is Almost Here!

Summer's end is exiting when it means POW! WOW! Worcester will once again bring beauty, creativity, and collaboration to our city. Visit powwowworcester.com for information about upcoming events you can take part in and discover what to expect during this year's artweek.
Join the Conversation!

Through our blog,  Foundation Reflections , we engage with you on topics vital to creating a prosperous community and region where opportunity is extended to everyone.
Greater Worcester Community Foundation