In a ceremony held on Wednesday (November 29) evening, the Sunset Community Foundation’s Grant Awards at the White Squirrel Golf Club became the beacon of hope for numerous local non-profits in the Grand Bend area.
The foundation distributed checks to deserving organizations, all based on meticulous grant applications submitted by the recipients.
Charlene Masschelein, the Chair of the Board, expressed her profound joy at witnessing so many individuals to celebrate the initiatives flourishing in the community. She emphasized the pivotal role played by community service organizations and charities.
Masschelein was honoured to be able to help so many local service organizations this year | Photo by B. Shakyaver
The event not only showcased financial support but also served as a platform for collaboration. Charlene highlighted the excitement of witnessing organizations with similar goals connect and share ideas, fostering potential partnerships that can positively impact the community.
Addressing the challenging decisions made by the grants committee, Charlene revealed that the foundation received an astounding number of applications.
Grand Bend Centre for the Living Arts already has their eye on a milestone investment for their funds. | Photo by: B. Shakyaver
Some of the largest recipients of funds included:
- Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Huron – $10,000 from the Relouw Fund
- Friends of Pinery Park – $10,000 from the Community Contributions Fund
- Grand Bend Place Centre for the Living Arts – $8,300 from the Grand Women Fund
Grand Bend Place reportedly aims to use the funds to establish the first food bank in Grand Bend, using the money to purchase appliances and other necessary infrastructure.
The Sunset Community Foundation operates by investing donated dollars, emphasizing the need for ongoing community support – you can help support more grants in future years through donating.
The Lions also received a large donation, among many other service groups | Photo by: B. Shakyaver
Looking towards the future, Charlene discussed the upcoming South Huron Community Fund Awards in spring 2024. This special fund, initiated by the Municipality of South Huron, aims to create sustainability for organizations by granting funds annually.
Written by: B. Shakyaver