Eighty Four, PA – The Washington County Community Foundation has awarded $240,000 in capacity-building grants to 17 local nonprofits, providing support for projects designed to strengthen their programs, operations, and long-term stability. Capacity-building is defined as any activity that increases a nonprofit’s operational, programmatic, financial, or organizational maturity.
In the communications category, 412 Food Rescue received $10,000 to enhance targeted marketing and communications specifically for Washington County, expanding awareness of its mission to combat food waste and hunger. Washington City Mission was awarded $10,000 to create a unified marketing plan that will bring consistency and clarity to its outreach efforts.
For data management improvements, A.D. White Research Society received $10,000 to acquire software and a computer to begin digitizing historical records, preserving local history while making it more accessible. Jefferson College Historical Society received $5,000 to implement updated software and technology to support the digitization of its collection.
In the equipment and material purchase category, Always B Smiling received $5,000 to equip a horticulture program for a new greenhouse, supporting hands-on learning and therapeutic activities. Canon-McMillan School District was awarded $35,000 for class packets that will expand STEM studies in coding, robotics, and AI, giving students more opportunities to engage in emerging fields. Neighbor 2 Neighbor of Southwestern PA received $25,000 to purchase a 12-passenger van, allowing the organization to better serve its community through increased transportation capacity.
Several grants will fund facility improvements. The Salvation Army – Mon Valley Corps was awarded $35,000 to replace the roof on its Donora building, ensuring the long-term safety and usability of the facility. Shekinah Ranch of the Mon Valley received $20,000 to complete construction on its horse barn, a critical element of its programs. South Hills Pet Rescue & Rehabilitation was granted $5,000 for the construction of a pet isolation area to improve animal care. World Series Tournaments received $10,000 to support the construction of a new staging facility.
In the financial processes category, Brownsville Ambulance Service received $10,000 to conduct an audit, strengthening financial oversight and transparency.
In the technology category, Healing Bridges received $15,000 for software and technology upgrades to support its operations. The Mental Health Association of Washington County was awarded $10,000 to replace outdated computers, ensuring more reliable service delivery. Summit Legal Aid received $15,000 to acquire devices with accessible software, improving client service and efficiency. TRPIL was awarded $15,000 to fund cybersecurity upgrades for HITRUST certification, bolstering data protection. United Way of Washington County received $5,000 to purchase computers and a TV screen to support board meetings and planning.
“The projects supported through this capacity-building cycle reflect our commitment to helping local nonprofits grow stronger in every way - from infrastructure to outreach to innovation,” said Aliesha Walz, WCCF President & CEO. “Whether it's expanding STEM education, making a building more welcoming, or upgrading how an organization communicates, we are proud to invest in projects that have a lasting impact on our community.”
The Foundation’s next capacity-building grant cycle opened on August 1 and closes on October 1. Nonprofit organizations who would like to be considered for a capacity-building grant should contact the Foundation at 724-222-6330 to discuss their project in advance of submitting an application. Grants normally range from $5,000 to $50,000.
The Foundation relies on contributions to provide grants and other charitable services. Gifts are welcomed via wccf.net or by contacting the Foundation at 724-222-6330.