New Fund Expands Inclusive Projects in Grant County

Contact: Meagan Mathias Community Leadership Director Email: Meagan@GiveToGrant.org April 4, 2025

New Fund Expands Opportunities for Inclusive Projects in Grant County

Community Foundation and AWS Foundation Launch AWS Inclusive Communities Grant Cycle

Grant County, Ind. — The Community Foundation of Grant County and AWS Foundation have announced a new grant opportunity focused on creating more inclusive communities for individuals with disabilities. Through this collaboration, the AWS Foundation Accessible Communities Fund was established at the Community Foundation, supporting a new AWS Inclusive Communities Grant Cycle.

This initiative is designed to empower nonprofits to better serve individuals by funding projects that promote accessibility, inclusion, and community engagement. Examples of eligible projects include sensory-friendly spaces, adaptive toys and equipment, entryway ramps, accessible vehicles, fencing for children with autism, universal restrooms, or inclusive playground upgrades.

"We're thrilled about this opportunity with the AWS Foundation, as it will broaden our grantmaking capacity and bolster programs that advance inclusivity and empowerment for individuals with disabilities in Grant County," said Dawn Brown, President and CEO of the Community Foundation.

Beginning May 1, local nonprofits can apply for grants between $2,500 and $10,000 to support inclusive programs and projects that align with AWS Foundation’s Guiding Principles, which emphasize:

· Self-determination – Individuals with Disabilities deserve a choice driven life (self-determination). Preferences, opinions, priorities, and accommodations are best defined by the individual rather than for the individual.

· Inclusion over segregation – Inclusion and Integration are better than segregation when possible. The more inclusive and integrated an environment, activity, or program, the more it will benefit everyone.

· Focus on potential – Opportunities are presented with a focus on encouraging potential rather than identification of limitations.

· Social connection – Social settings that include family and friends are preferred. Age related peer groups and potential for new friends is ideal.

· Exceeding ADA standards – ADA standards are the law and the minimum. Exceeding through the principles of Universal Design is desirable.

· Support for education and employment – Opportunities that enhance and support education and employment potential will contribute to greater independence for the individual.

· Collaboration – No one has all the answers. Collaboration increases the potential for greater opportunities.

“As we work to build a more inclusive Northeast Indiana, our rural communities play an important role in serving people with disabilities,” said Patti Hays, CEO of AWS Foundation. “We’re hopeful this new partnership will help equip Grant County nonprofits and organizations with the support needed to engage individuals with disabilities in all aspects of community life.”

Nonprofit organizations interested in applying for the AWS Inclusive Communities Grant Cycle are encouraged to contact Meagan Mathias, Community Leadership Director, at Meagan@GiveToGrant.org for more information. The last day to start

an application is June 20, 2025 with the application deadline being June 29, 2025 at 11:59 PM. Award notifications will be announced July 18, 2025.

About AWS Foundation

Founded in 2007, AWS Foundation supports a wide range of organizations and service agencies in northeast Indiana working to develop a community in which people with enduring intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities are engaged fully and meaningfully in all aspects of community life. For more information, visit awsfoundation.org.

About Community Foundation of Grant County, Indiana, Inc.

The Community Foundation of Grant County, Indiana, Inc. is an advocate for local philanthropy and is dedicated to improving the lives of people in the Grant County area. An effective steward of the community’s charitable resources since 1984, the Foundation works with donors to establish charitable funds and supports non-profit organizations through a variety of grantmaking efforts. The Community Foundation connects people, resources, and causes to promote sustainable impact for the betterment of Grant County. Currently the Community Foundation holds over 400 charitable funds that support a variety of charities and charitable causes in Grant County. For more information, please visit GiveToGrant.org.