tag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:/pt/projects?page=3Awesome Foundation - Projects2025-03-31T15:39:31Ztag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3326402025-03-26T00:00:00Z2025-03-31T15:39:31ZState College, PA – Helping Engage River's Youth Connect with Nature The Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association’s West Branch HERYN (Helping Engage River’s Youth connect with Nature) is a free day-long outdoor and environmental education program that provides youth (ages 9-14) with the knowledge and skills needed to safely and autonomously practice freshwater kayaking and fishing. Additionally, our program encourages participants to become stewards of their watershed, promoting conservation practices that protect freshwater resources for recreation, fishing, and drinking.
On July 10th, 2024, the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association (MSRKA) held its 1st annual West Branch HERYN, hosting 13 youth participants at Bald Eagle State Park’s Swimming Beach. This program is an expansion of MSRKA’s HERYN program that is held annually in New Columbia, PA. The program has 3 components: kayaking, fishing, and pond ecology. The fishing and kayaking programs introduce participants to the basics of aquatic recreation as many of our youth participants arrive without any prior experience practicing these aquatic sports. The Pond Ecology program facilitates the exploration of flora and fauna of freshwater wetlands. Additionally, the program concludes with a brief environmental education lesson related to watershed ecology, issues and threats, and conservation practices.
Our primary goal is to impart skills and knowledge related to aquatic exploration and recreation to promote an active lifestyle and positive relationships with nature among youth and young adults. Additionally, we hope to create the next generation of environmental stewards, instilling an environmental stewardship ethic and encouraging lifelong dedication to the protection of aquatic resources in central PA. Since the program is free to residents of Centre, Clinton, and Clearfield counties, we are expanding the influence of conservation messaging in central PA and thus improving the lives of our residents by protecting water quality for drinking, recreation, and wildlife.Andrew BechdelHelping Engage River's Youth Connect with Nature https://www.middlesusquehannariverkeeper.org/heryn.htmlUnited StatesState College, PAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/statecollegetag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3213902025-03-26T00:00:00Z2025-03-27T10:58:16ZGeorgetown, MA – Hometown Heroes I am looking to put up 30”x60” flags honoring our awesome men and women have served in the military. Hoping to get this project off the ground this year so by next the 250 birthday of the country we will have a good representation of the people that served our Country. These flags will be mounted on telephone poles and have a picture, name , rank , the military branch and the years served. The set ups cost approximately $200 which in most cases will be born by the family. Anyone that had a family member killed in action or for some reason can not afford the set up a grant from Awesome Georgetown will take care of approximately 10 flags. Jon Pingree Hometown Heroes United StatesGeorgetown, MAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/georgetowntag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3343782025-03-26T00:00:00Z2025-03-27T10:57:39ZGeorgetown, MA – It Takes A HerdNine years ago, I became a Certified Dementia Practitioner and have been helping families navigate the difficult journey of dementia. As a lifelong horseman, I have watched how equine assisted programming can positively impact individuals. My experiences in both of those arenas lead me to develop a program that marries two passions of mine.
It Takes a Herd is the dementia friendly equine assisted program that I created and implemented to support care partners and their care recipients with dementia. The program utilizes horses as a conduit and provides a safe, nonjudgemental environment where participants share an equine experience. Through their interaction with horses, care partners are given an opportunity to return to their original roles within the partnership and learn to strengthen the relationship through connection, camaraderie and community.
Both the care partner and care recipient participate in meaningful activities that promote purposeful engagement, encourage independence, build confidence, and foster empowerment. Care partners are encouraged to step outside of their role for a time and re-connect to their loved one without the burden of care. Throughout the program, care partners enjoy moments of respite and time to connect with other participants who understand the experience of caregiving. While participating in the program, care partners and care recipients find their “Herd” comprised of others in the program who encourage, support, and validate the feeling that they are not alone in their journey through dementia.
Each week, a different theme is presented to participants guiding them to develop better communication skills, while care partners are coached in techniques to minimize the frustrations of caregiving. While working with horses throughout the program, care partners gain a better understanding how to navigate the disease of dementia while strengthening their partnership in a fun and purposeful environment.
Karen CoppolaIt Takes A HerdUnited StatesGeorgetown, MAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/georgetowntag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3317202025-03-26T00:00:00Z2025-03-26T22:09:59ZYerevan – Totems of Connection: A 7-Day Artist ResidencyThis proposal outlines a plan to host a small-scale artist residency in our guesthouse -Daravand, located in Dilijan, bringing together seven talented artists for seven days to create unique totems for each room. These totems, infused with artistic expression, cultural storytelling, and environmental mindfulness, will enhance the guesthouse's ambiance while fostering connections among artists, guests, and the local community. Additionally, seven local young artists will visit and actively participate in the creative process, enriching their skills and contributing fresh perspectives.
The residency aims to:
1. Celebrate artistic creativity by providing artists with an immersive environment to craft room-specific totems.
2. Cultivate a sense of place and identity within the guesthouse by embedding symbolic and culturally inspired art into its design.
3. Engage the local community and inspire young talent through collaborative opportunities and workshops.
Residency Structure:
• Participants: 7 resident artists from diverse disciplines (sculptors, painters) and 7 local young artists as collaborators.
• Duration: 7 days
• Output: Each artist creates one totem inspired by the room’s unique character and the cultural or natural surroundings, with input and participation from local youth.
• Engagement: Open studio sessions, workshops, and discussions will encourage interaction between artists, the local community, and guests.
Benefits for the Community:
1. Cultural Enrichment:
o Totems rooted in local history, traditions, and ecology will celebrate cultural identity and educate guests.
o Open sessions will provide insights into artistic processes.
2. Youth Empowerment:
o Local young artists will gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and exposure to professional artistic practices.
3. Economic Impact:
o Enhanced guesthouse visibility, attracting cultural tourism.
4. Sustainability Awareness:
Meline TovmasyanTotems of Connection: A 7-Day Artist ResidencyArmeniaYerevanhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/yerevantag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3365362025-03-26T00:00:00Z2025-03-27T12:32:08ZRhode Island – Mothers Are MakersMothers are Makers is a new project for women who are mothers and clients of OpenDoors, a local nonprofit, social service agency that is the first and largest to serve formerly incarcerated people in Rhode Island. These women are working to rebuild both their lives and their families.
Mothers Are Makers is conceived as a new annual gathering to resource these women and support them in envisioning new possibilities and pathways for themselves and their families, reiterating that they are not defined by the worst things that they have done and they are capable of so much more.
AFRI's funding will help support an inaugural Mothers Are Makers event, an interactive art-making brunch to be held at the Women & Children’s House on Mother’s Day weekend 2025. Providence-based artist, mother, educator, and changemaker Lilly Manycolors will collaborate with us to develop an art-making activity for women and children inspired by themes of empowerment, affirmation, motherhood, and care.Persephone AllenMothers Are MakersUnited StatesRhode Islandhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/rhodeislandtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3309742025-03-25T00:00:00Z2025-04-22T19:39:43ZOahu, HI – Used BookstoreHi, my name is Serena I am fourteen years old, and I live in a small town called Pahoa on the big island of Hawaii. With the support of my family, I am opening a new and used bookstore on March 1 to better innovate my community. This will be the only bookstore in Pahoa and the five towns surrounding it making it the only bookstore in our district. I want it to be an inclusive space that the local community can come together and share ideas, knowledge, and stories. the pandemic really took a toll on our small town increasing the homeless percentage a considerable amount and driving local stores out of business. We are recovering with the help of the members within our community and the "Aloha" spirit. I am going to have a local author spotlight of the month to support and encourage local talent. local artist can also use it as a platform to showcase their work as consignment items. we are also providing tutor Tuesdays to junior high and high school students to better their education. I am looking to partner with schools and libraries on the east side of Hawaii to bring high-quality pieces of literature to our island. Serena MichelUsed BookstoreUnited StatesOahu, HIhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/oahutag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3334312025-03-25T00:00:00Z2025-04-02T16:46:33ZChicago, IL – Fab Lab for underserved studentsI am a teacher at a charter high school in Chicago IL called Art in Motion.
My view and vision has been one which bridges the purported gap between science and art. Being an excited, passionate, and uber dedicated teacher and scientist I merely want to give my students more opportunities to express themselves in new ways while learning to use some of the technology that I believe the world will soon find ubiquitous in every classroom. 3d printers, cnc machines, laser cutting devices, etc.
This grant would help purchase some equipment that would be used to allow students to make their ideas real using 3d printers for now and hopefully at some point they'll be working in a fully functional fab lab in which could be our "hub" for creation for any and everything our amazing and talented students can think of.
The goal is to help to provide experiences and understanding for students so they can use the fabrication equipment to create their art. Our students are eclectic, artistic, intelligent, etc. and I don't believe I could imagine the amazing things that they would create. Therefore, they could then use the fab lab to create their art for their community to give, to sell, or to highlight in their community. Matthew OlsenFab Lab for underserved studentshttp://www.aimchicago.orgUnited StatesChicago, ILhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/chicagotag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3323742025-03-25T00:00:00Z2025-03-26T06:01:30ZPortland, OR – Who We Are, Who We Can Be: Diverse BiographiesI am the librarian at Alder Elementary School in the Reynolds School District. Reynolds did without certified librarians for over a decade, then brought them back after the pandemic. Our school is 68% non-native English speakers, 100% free lunch, and over 20 home languages spoken. I recently did a diversity audit of our biographies and was disappointed but not surprised to find that 80% of them are about white men. Not only that, but the biographies of BiPOC individuals are overwhelmingly focused on the arts and athletics. And despite having a majority-Latinx school, according to our collection Cesar Chavez and Diego Rivera are the only Latinos of note. I would love to do a major overhaul of our selection. I believe this will help my students feel seen and create a sense of possibility for them. Wendy GassawayWho We Are, Who We Can Be: Diverse BiographiesUnited StatesPortland, ORhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/portlandtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3304152025-03-25T00:00:00Z2025-04-22T19:42:16ZOahu, HI – Preserving Last Hawaiian Taro VarieitiesMy awesome project continues to perpetuate and preserve the last Native Hawaiian cultivars of taro on Earth. Taro, or Kalo, is a staple for Hawaiians since time immemorial and culturally significant as being an elder of the people. It is both Gluten-free and hypoallergenic and very high in vitamins and fiber. Taro is the key to native health and wellness. Their dietary and nutritional value along with nuances of cultivars developed over centuries specific to Hawaii are keys to future food production, farmland preservation, and food independence for Hawaii.
I have been responsible for sharing more than 50.000 seeds across Hawaii for old and new farmers since 2020 covid years where we gave away 10,000 in one day. Because of our isolation and Hawaiis ever growing dependence on imported food, I actively promote subsistence , backyard, guerilla farming and constantly continue to give away seeds to enable new farmers.
I manage 3 football sized farms with 40 of the last 60 remaining native varieties in order to maintain cultivars and have available seed stock into the future. I am a father of 5 and happily married for 22 years and look forward to expanding which requires fencing.Kyle K NahoiPreserving Last Hawaiian Taro Varieitieshttp://Www.upliftothers.orgUnited StatesOahu, HIhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/oahutag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/2914802025-03-21T00:00:00Z2025-04-09T18:26:06ZWestminster, MD – First Lego LeagueOur non-profit, Boundless KID Collective, is working to expand the opportunities for homeschoolers in the Westminster area. Boundless is an organization serving 120 students from a total of 48 families in the Westminster area. We have had classroom opportunities for 3 school years, but this year we have expanded our offerings to include a clubs program. Clubs include: Chess, Photography, Farm and Forest, and First Lego League. All of our clubs are being led and facilitated by volunteers. This includes our First Lego League Teams. First Lego League is an organization that helps students gain experience with a variety of STEM topics and career opportunities. Westminster is quickly becoming an amazing technology hub, with things like the TING network availability, the Exploration Commons opening, MAGIC and their tech programs, etc. We'd love to help build the STEM offerings in Westminster, as well as engaging the homeschooling community in this tech growth. The leaders who have volunteered to mentor the current two teams have generously agreed to take on a third team, but this creates additional expense. Mary ClarkFirst Lego Leaguehttps://marylandfll.org/United StatesWestminster, MDhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/westminstertag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3343762025-03-20T00:00:00Z2025-03-24T14:26:59ZKingston – Brain Reach: Neuroscience for Kingston 5th gradersThe Brain Reach program is based out of the Centre for Neuroscience Studies at Queen’s University and has been running for the past 10 years. A pair of neuroscience graduate student volunteers are assigned to each participating classroom and teach 5th graders about neuroscience. This program is entirely free for all participating schools; we provide all the relevant materials.
Our program consists of up to 7 classroom sessions (depending on availability/timing) over the course of an academic school year. Presentations are approximately one-hour in length and consist of a PowerPoint presentation with lots of interactive components (activities, videos, Q&A, class participation, games, etc.) that are sure to wow students and consolidate their learning!
The program’s curriculum fits within the grade 5 Ontario Curriculum, so it is highly relevant for students and takes lesson plan pressure off Kingston’s overworked teachers. We are currently updating the program to add even more engaging activities and introduce new, fresh topics such as neurodiversity and technology. Once updated, we aim to publish all of our material online for free, so teachers across Ontario can use our curriculum.
We did a needs-based assessment to help us prioritize reaching out to schools that would most benefit from the program - that is, schools whose students are less likely to have access to STEM-based extra-curricular programs on their own. We plan to continue using this strategy.
Mostly importantly this allows students to have access to real neuroscientists to ask question. We specifically make sure each school has at least one woman on their neuroscientist volunteer team so that grade 5 girls can see themselves in a STEM career. Matt Jacobs and Holly CrowsonBrain Reach: Neuroscience for Kingston 5th gradersCanadaKingstonhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/kingston-ontag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3141572025-03-19T00:00:00Z2025-04-01T02:44:34ZLake Mac – Five Islands School Community Garden ProjectWe are excited to be in the beginning stages of designing a Sensory and Bush Tucker Garden in an unused space at our school. Our current playground set up does not include any spaces that allow students to interact with nature, as our school is set up on a series of decks, off the ground.
The garden will hopefully be designed to engage students in hands-on learning while connecting them with nature. This project will involve collaboration with local community members, including The Men's Shed, as well as students and staff from neighboring schools, who will share their expertise in setting up the space.
The garden will offer opportunities for students to explore a wide range of subjects, from Mathematics and Science to English, through practical experiences. We aim to grow produce that can be incorporated into cooking programs, teaching students the concept of 'farm to table.' In addition, we plan to create a Yarning Circle and a variety of sensory installations, ensuring the garden caters to the needs of all students and provides a calming, enriching environment for learning and interaction.
Our aim is to build at least 8 garden beds of various sizes, accessible to all students. We would need to furnish these with dirt and plants. We also want to create different sensory installations, such as a mud kitchen, chalk drawing boards, and a sandpit. At one end of the garden, we would like to create an accessible Yarning Circle and 'Bush Tucker' garden. Emma BrittonFive Islands School Community Garden Projecthttps://fiveis-s.schools.nsw.gov.au/AustraliaLake Machttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/lakemactag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3243222025-03-17T00:00:00Z2025-06-16T17:30:15ZPittsburgh, PA – GAME IS HER MIDDLE NAME: THE LIFE OF BETTY DAVISThe Awesome Pittsburgh grant will be used towards the writing of a biography about local musical and cultural pioneer, Betty Davis.
In the 1970s, African American singer/songwriter Betty Davis developed a radical sound and look that was feared and ridiculed by white and Black America alike. As an artistic pioneer and unapologetic feminist, she was once boycotted for her sexually dominant lyrics and physically suggestive live performances but would later emerge in the twenty-first century as a musical and cultural icon after decades of deep reclusion. Betty influenced many musical heavyweights – from her husband Miles Davis to lovers and friends like Jimi Hendrix, Sly Stone, and Eric Clapton – but she herself is only now getting the adulation she deserved.
Betty Davis was raised in Homestead, PA before leaving to perform on stages in New York City, San Francisco, Los Angeles, France, and Tokyo. After years of being badly burned by the music industry, Betty suffered deep psychological trauma and returned to Pittsburgh in the early 1980s to live in reclusion. For two decades, Betty languished in obscurity and poverty. All of that began to change, however, when an independent record label successfully contacted her and began the process of reissuing her music.
In 2007, the music of Betty Davis was reissued to a wave of critical acclaim. Betty’s reissues were an overwhelming success for Betty herself, who not only benefited financially from the arrangement but also felt encouraged to include her voice in more conversations about her life and music via interviews—something she had not done for over two decades. Danielle MaggioGAME IS HER MIDDLE NAME: THE LIFE OF BETTY DAVISUnited StatesPittsburgh, PAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/pittsburghtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3320372025-03-16T00:00:00Z2025-03-18T00:14:34ZSanta Cruz, CA – MHCAN Artshow auction & tea The Mental Health Client Action Network is the oldest and only peer-run organization in Santa Cruz County that provides services for those suffering with mental health and substance abuser disorders, Since a majority of our clients are homeless we provide a drop-in center four days a week from 9-2pm where they can access services such as-laundry, transportation, showers, mail, computer room, clothing donations, self-help peer run groups, and referrals to county resources. We would like to have an art show auction and tea which will serve as a way for our clients to showcase their artistic and creative talents and also provide a fundraising opportunity for our organization so that we can continue to provide the services that they depend on. The art show will have 15 participants (max) they will only be clients of MHCAN or staff and will be allowed to submit 2 works of art that will be displayed in the auction which we are aiming to have on June 21 2025, We were wanting to rent a room at London Nelson for 4 hours for 2 days. We are asking for this grant so that we're able to supply materials needed for the projects such as paints, canvases, brushes, collage materials and to help pay for room rental at the London Nelson center. The projects will be put on for an auction where a set price will be reached giving 10% of proceeds back to the artist and the rest to MHCAN's fundraising efforts.Heather Aston for MHCAN Mental Health Client Action NetworkMHCAN Artshow auction & tea http://www.mhcan.orgUnited StatesSanta Cruz, CAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/santacruztag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3315582025-03-16T00:00:00Z2025-03-18T00:12:46ZSanta Cruz, CA – The Live Like Coco BookmobileI am working to transform the Live Like Coco Bookmobile in its current form into a fully functional and effective platform for community outreach. To do this, I will be making improvements to its usability by designing and building systems for book storage, accessibility, and distribution. I will be completing the process of labeling and categorizing the books that will stock the Bookmobile. I will also design and build a securement system to keep the books and their containers safely in place while the Bookmobile is traveling. I will also create a book return system that includes a drop-off container with a securement method for transport. To improve book distribution at community giving events, I will purchase a rolling conveyor system with an adjustable stand and design a securement solution for travel. Another addition will be the development of a book cart—a somewhat self-contained, mobile library with a 200+ book capacity and space for a checkout system. This cart will integrate with the Bookmobile, allowing for greater maneuverability in schools and other locations/situations where the entire vehicle cannot fit. I will also design a securement system for the cart during travel. Lastly, I will install a full whiteboard complement, complete with markers, erasers, and magnets, to improve organization and provide a space for announcements or posting other information.Marcus EllisonThe Live Like Coco Bookmobilehttps://livelikecoco.com/projects/United StatesSanta Cruz, CAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/santacruztag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3298182025-03-15T00:00:00Z2025-03-14T22:45:08ZCass Clay – Big Free Cut Flower GardenI would like to convert my front yard into a free cut flower garden open to the public. I will have a minimal fence to keep bunnies out, but signage to welcome neighbors in and share the rules. I will have basic scissors and shears available in the garden so anyone can come and clip a bouquet.
I hope that neighbors will use this to save money on wedding flowers, gifts to cheer up a friend, funerals, showers, and a free date night activity. The garden would be planned to have both filler and focal point flowers, with a variety of bloom times. There will also be many types of plants to attract pollinators.
Flowers are a universal gift of love and that is certainly something we all could use more of these days.Jenna KahlyBig Free Cut Flower GardenUnited StatesCass Clayhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/cassclaytag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/2788492025-03-15T00:00:00Z2025-03-14T22:38:18ZCass Clay – Farming Equipment for Congolese Women in FMAt Baraza La Afrika, we have been granted the opportunity to host a community garden for our Congolese families in the Cass-Clay community for the past year. Each family that participates in the garden has a designated plot of land to use, maintain, and provide food for their families.
Our garden's participants primarily consist of Congolese youth and women. Our goal is to accommodate the immediate needs of our participants and our community at large to ensure that Congolese families continue to have culturally inclusive food in their homes.
Our immediate needs are the following:
*Proper gardening equipment. We want to ensure our participants have the appropriate equipment and education for all environmental conditions in our community garden.
*Agriculturally appropriate garments for our youth and women. This will ensure our participants are safe and protected in the garden and comfortable and happy.
*Transportation Accommodation—Baraza La Afrika provides transportation for Congolese families to ensure they can safely and surely make their way to and from the garden.
We need funding to support this initiative and ensure that the experience we provide to Congolese families within our community is as safe, fun, and inclusive as possible.kyendamina Cleophace MukebaFarming Equipment for Congolese Women in FMhttp://www.blaafrika.orgUnited StatesCass Clayhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/cassclaytag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3300082025-03-14T00:00:00Z2025-03-15T01:30:50ZRockport, MA – Financial Aid Bank for Survival Rockport CampSurvival Rockport is a highly popular, small summer day camp. It takes place on public wild lands in the Rockport forest and on a public beach. We travel everywhere by foot, carrying all our supplies. Our 20 campers per week form a community and immerse weekly in a different story of survival. Sometimes we are stranded mariners or treasure hunters, sometimes we are field biologists camping out to study rare species. Campers forge connections with each other and the natural world, establish a home base camp, and then hone their survival skills.
There are 8 core skills with five levels each. Campers decide which ones to focus on, and they demonstrate their skills when they're ready to move up. The skills include firecraft, shelter architect, naturalist, navigator, and rope wrangler, among others. Our instructors are adults who are skilled in naturalist and/or wilderness travel and survival. Our campers are given trust, self direction, and hours per day for unfettered exploration, construction of shelters, drawing of wildlife, and solving of mysteries. Though the stories we create each week are fictional, the camp is authentic in that experiences are based on the surrounding wildlife and plants and spontaneous events in nature.
Campers finish this camp ready to guide their own families on adventures, and we often hear back that they are entrusted with the fires or other aspects of family camping trips.
Kestrel believes strongly that no one should be kept from having a high quality summer adventure due to lack of funds. We keep the camp fees reasonable and lower than other private camps. We also offer a simple application for fee waivers and reductions, and we've never turned anyone away for inability to pay. We believe anyone who tells us they need help, and so far, to our knowledge, our trust has been well spent.
However, we no longer have a financial aid bank. We want to establish one, and have families who can chip in a little extra replenish it each year.
JESSICA KAGLE (on behalf of Kestrel Educational Adventures)Financial Aid Bank for Survival Rockport Camphttps://kestreleducation.org/survival-rockport-campUnited StatesRockport, MAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/rockporttag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3227752025-03-13T00:00:00Z2025-03-17T21:34:22ZSt. Paul, MN – Fighting Food Deserts in St. PaulAwesomeStPaul is excited to announce our March 2025 grant has been awarded to Brightside Produces’
Corner Store Program. This project provides incentives for corner stores in St. Paul’s “food deserts” to offer customers fresh produce.
In applicant Justa Heinen-Kay’s words, “Eliminating food deserts in underserved urban areas is a major public health priority. In many lower income and racially diverse parts of the Twin Cities, there are few grocery stores available within walking distance, making it difficult for families who live in underserved communities to purchase fresh, healthy food. Low-income city residents often buy groceries from corner stores since these small retailers are embedded within neighborhoods and convenient to shop at without requiring transportation. However, it is difficult for corner stores to stock high-quality, low-cost fresh produce for a variety of reasons, including the lack of a viable distribution service and the financial risk of stocking perishable items.
BrightSide Produce was founded in 2014 by two 16-year olds from North Minneapolis and a University of St Thomas professor to create a novel way for corner stores to stock affordable fresh produce. For over 10 years, Brightside’s nationally-recognized Healthy Corner Store Program has provided a year-round fresh produce distribution service for corner stores in underserved Minneapolis and St. Paul neighborhoods. Our convenient weekly service overcomes key barriers to stocking fresh produce for small stores by offering flexible ordering terms, no minimum order, and a small markup above wholesale cost to keep prices low. BrightSide currently partners with about 45 corner stores in Minneapolis and St. Paul, all of which are independent “mom and pop” shops owned by people of color, and distributes about 3500 pounds of fresh produce per week to corner stores.
Our corner store fresh produce distribution service is transformative for fresh food access in underserved communities. Many of our partner corner stores say that they would not be able to stock fresh produce without BrightSide’s services. However, because we keep prices low for stores, it is expensive to operate this program and requires subsidies to keep it sustainable.”
Justa Heinen-KayFighting Food Deserts in St. Paulhttps://brightsidempls.org/United StatesSt. Paul, MNhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/stpaultag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3278712025-03-12T00:00:00Z2025-04-09T18:26:40ZWestminster, MD – Embracing Abilities, Building CommunityThe objective of this project is to provide an educational 60-minute documentary showcasing the abilities and contributions of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), and how they benefit the community in a positive manner. The perception of people with IDD has long carried a societal bias of negative thoughts and emotions. Stereotypical viewpoints of this population may result in discrimination and prejudice or cause a feeling of discomfort and avoidance. Regardless of the manifestation of social interactions, it becomes a critical task to start to impact change by shifting away from a society with disability bias and towards one of acceptance and support.
The focus of this documentary is to provide a resource that shows the beneficial contributions of the IDD population and the agencies that support them alongside organizations that employ them. To bring the most comprehensive viewpoint of the IDD community, five non-profit organizations are collaborating to bring this project to life. Representing the various segments of the IDD community will be The Arc of Carroll County with a focus on residential living and group homes; Penn Mar will focus on community day services and programs; Target in partnership with McDaniel college will highlight a graduate student working with a person with IDD; Bello Machre will focus on employment within the community; and Community Media Center will act as producer and director for the project.
By telling the story of how this population integrates into the community, it serves as a tool to break down barriers and change perceptions of those that may lack an understanding of their abilities and productivity. The protagonists will provide the main voice to the documentary and will be an encouragement to the community to perceive those with IDD in a different light; one that brings positivity and empowerment and helps to end the disability bias.Susan ReedEmbracing Abilities, Building Communityhttps://www.carrollmediacenter.org/United StatesWestminster, MDhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/westminstertag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3309532025-03-12T00:00:00Z2025-03-13T14:23:31ZIpswich, MA – Around the Table: Nourishing CommunityAround the Table
A collaborative event between The Ipswich Art Association & Three Sisters
When we gather together in community, everyone is fed.
Date: April 4-6, 2025
Location: EBSCO Hall
Join the Ipswich Art Association and Three Sisters April 4-6 as we explore what it means for a community to be nourished - body and soul. Around the Table is a three day event dedicated to the places where art, farming, food, and community meet in Ipswich. Join us Around the Table and help build a place of plenty for all.
Featuring
Art Around the Table - an exhibit of works by local artists and artisans from the IAA celebrating the ways we grow, make and share food - from landscapes to tablescapes. Works will be for sale, with proceeds benefiting the artists, Three Sisters and the IAA.
Food Around the Table - conversations with Three Sisters showing how their work helps our community access fresh, nutritious food.
Community Around the Table - immersive community art projects that explore how good things happen when we gather together.
Live music
Family-friendly art demonstrations and inspirations around nourishment.
Saturday and Sunday April 5-6 are free and open to the public.. On Friday night, join us for a special ticketed evening event supporting the community nourishment efforts of both organizations.
Liz GreenAround the Table: Nourishing Communityhttps://threesistersgarden.org/around-the-tableUnited StatesIpswich, MAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/ipswichtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3303862025-03-12T00:00:00Z2025-03-15T13:52:01ZAnn Arbor, MI – à la DadaÀ la Dada is a creative arts project with a mission to produce eccentric cabarets that showcase both professional and amateur artists in unconventional spaces.
The cabarets are open to all forms of creative work, including but not limited to music, theater, dance, improvisation, costume design, performance art, fine art, engineering, spoken word, etc. On average, 50-75% of performers in an À la Dada cabaret are professional artists who are paid by the organization. The rest are amateurs, volunteers, and audience members who wish to participate and showcase their work. Think of a cross between a recital and an open mic.
This open-concept ethos is directly inspired by the Dadaists and Dada movement of the early 20th century and the cabarets produced in Cafe Voltaire. Any and all art was welcome then, so any and all art is welcome now. À la Dada expands upon the original cabaret structure by inviting community participation and blurring the lines between audience and performer.
The first cabaret will take place on April 5th 2025 at St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Ypsilanti, MI featuring local artists and volunteers!Juliet Schleferà la DadaUnited StatesAnn Arbor, MIhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/ann-arbortag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3323932025-03-11T00:00:00Z2025-03-12T21:14:13ZSan Francisco, CA – WormFestI live in whimsical and weird Arcata CA. I would love to host an event called WormFest: A celebratory and educational festival focused on worms, soil, and the ecosystem services they provide. The main event of WormFest would be a worm grunting competition. (Video for context of a similar event in England: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayQkFgQsQxY&ab_channel=Britclip). We would have prizes for most worms, biggest specimen, most creative approach, and best costume. In addition, we would have live funk music with a "worm" dance move contest. We would also invite food trucks who could offer worm or soil themed food. We would invite local environmental agencies to discuss vermicompost demo/education, soil health education and general soils education. We would also invite craft vendors with worm themed art. I have created a WormFest sticker that says "I wiggled at WormFest" to spread the word for future years. We want this to be a family friendly community event to excite Humboldt County CA to strive for good soil health practices and be thankful for the soil and of course our wiggly worms. Megan KownurkoWormFesthttp://N/AUnited StatesSan Francisco, CAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/sftag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3305472025-03-11T00:00:00Z2025-03-12T13:28:07ZPhiladelphia, PA – A Better Start for BabiesA group of us set out to raise much-needed supplies for new mothers and children cared for at ChesPenn, a Federally Qualified Health Care Facility in Chester, PA, one of the poorest cities in the USA. We worked with the doctors at the clinic to create a list of items including diapers, clothing, nasal aspirators, breast pumps, diaper cream, home knitted hats, thermometers and more. We named the project "A Better Start for Babies". Each mother gets a colorful bag of supplies worth more than $70. These mothers are in great need; many have no English language skills, most have no insurance or financial resources, and are cared for without charge by the clinic. The doctors go over the contents of the bags with the mothers to know what to do with their newborns.
We have no private business sponsors. To date, we have worked with donations from individuals and we have received a grant from a local public foundation. John GreenstineA Better Start for Babieshttps://www.bethisraelmedia.org/donate-to-a-better-start-for-babies.htmlUnited StatesPhiladelphia, PAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/philadelphiatag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3263912025-03-10T00:00:00Z2025-03-11T16:40:54ZCleveland, OH – Dollars & Sense: "Money Beyond the Numbers"Dollars & Sense is a semester-long, project-based program taught in CMSD high schools & first-ring suburbs, reaching over 400 students annually. Students earn a 0.5 elective credit while learning critical financial skills, with a strong focus on investing through a student-led investment club. The curriculum covers saving, budgeting, credit, taxes, insurance, and investing, blending classroom learning with hands-on experiences. Students will present a short-term financial plan as their final project. Funds support field trips to PNC Fairfax, the Federal Reserve, and the DECA State Competition, offering real-world finance insights. By combining classroom learning with hands-on experiences, we provide students with practical tools to navigate their financial futures confidently. More specifically, this program will:
Deliver project-based instruction on saving & budgeting, credit, investing, taxes, and insurance, allowing students to apply what they learn directly to their lives.
Provide monthly field trips to banks, where students will gain firsthand insights into the banking system, open personal accounts, and apply classroom concepts in real-world settings.
Guide each student in creating a financial plan that includes short-term goals and post-high school financing options, helping them make informed decisions about their futures.
Include participation in Breadwinners Academy’s Financial Literacy Academic Challenge, where students will apply their knowledge in a competitive and supportive setting, developing teamwork, communication, and financial skills.
Offer priority access to our Books to Bread summer program for selected students, providing hands-on learning with industry professionals and deepening their understanding of financial literacy.Jason Lockett SrDollars & Sense: "Money Beyond the Numbers"https://www.breadwinnersacademy.org/United StatesCleveland, OHhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/clevelandtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3328212025-03-10T00:00:00Z2025-03-11T16:42:23ZCleveland, OH – JVA Cleveland Archive Community Archiving DayThe JVA Cleveland Archive is a community-driven oral history and archive project committed to chronicling, preserving, and sharing the untold stories of Soviet refugees who resettled in the Cleveland area between 1976 and 1991, from the Jackson-Vanik Amendment (JVA) to the end of the Soviet Union. During this time, an estimated 12,000 Soviet refugees settled here.
Many immigrants who fled the USSR due to political oppression and religious persecution settled in Beachwood, South Euclid, Cleveland Heights, Mayfield Heights, and other East Side neighborhoods. Before arriving in the U.S., they were migrants in Italy and Austria. However, their personal histories, photographs, and documents remain largely unarchived. This project allows them to own and tell their own stories. Many adults who undertook this migration with their families are seniors now, making this project all the more urgent.
We would like to host a Community Archiving Day, inviting these residents and their families to bring old photos, immigration documents, and personal mementos to be digitized at photo and scanning stations. Bilingual volunteers will conduct short oral history interviews on-site, which will all be preserved on a public website. In the next stage of this project, we plan to hold a pop-up exhibition at a local library or community center to share these stories and personal ephemera. The long-term goal of this project is archival and classification within a larger organization dedicated to preservation and history.
What makes this project unique:
- Includes Soviet émigrés of all backgrounds and ethnicities.
- Encourages the participation of and engagement with working class immigrants, not selecting for professionals or academics.
- Seeks to include businesses central to the community.
- Focuses on the time directly before, during, and shortly after immigration.
- Taps into this somewhat insular community using interviewers from the community.
Svetlana BinshtokJVA Cleveland Archive Community Archiving DayUnited StatesCleveland, OHhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/clevelandtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3317422025-03-10T00:00:00Z2025-03-11T16:41:47ZCleveland, OH – Comics at the Corner 2025 Lit loungesWe host free pop up up events called Lit(eracy) Lounges. These events allow readers from across the literacy spectrum to engage with culturally relevant and representative literature. We provide free comics and graphic novels, activities, and refreshments. Our events provide residents in underserved and disinvested communities (specifically Cleveland’s Mt Pleasant, Buckeye-Shaker, and Woodland Hills neighborhoods) an opportunity to explore the joy of reading. In addition this gives people a chance to feel like they’re in a school book fair extending book ownership through book choiceDawn ArringtonComics at the Corner 2025 Lit loungeshttp://Comicsatthecorner.comUnited StatesCleveland, OHhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/clevelandtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3319952025-03-10T00:00:00Z2025-03-11T09:05:20ZOrlando, FL – Pop Up OperaImagine sitting on the SunRail, minding your own business, on your way to or from work or a meeting, and spontaneous opera erupts beside you! Imagine the feeling of awe to feel this powerful voice beside you that feels like it may just blow the roof off of the SunRail train and how excited and delighted you would feel. That is what we would like for you to experience with our Pop Up Opera! We are requesting funds to produce this experience for SunRail riders in the month of March.
In March 2025, Timucua Arts Foundation will be hosting our very first Opera Festival in collaboration with Bravo Chamber Orchestra, Musical Traditions, VoxO, Central Florida Vocal Arts, Helena Collective, Opera Orlando and Keri Lee Pierson/Chanji Kim. Along with our collaborators, we will be exposing the Central Florida community to opera cohesively throughout the month of March. We are proud to announce that Keri Lee Pierson’s opera is a world premiere!Leah NashPop Up Operahttp://Timucua.comUnited StatesOrlando, FLhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/orlandotag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3311172025-03-09T00:00:00Z2025-03-20T01:39:41ZNewburgh, NY – Newburgh Urban Farming FairOn Saturday, April 26, 2025, the Newburgh Urban Farm and Food, Inc. will hold its 9th annual Urban Farming Fair from 12:00-4:00PM at Downing Park Urban Farm located at 207 Carpenter Avenue. The day is free to the public and is focused on better nutrition, urban ecology, agriculture, and gardening. We offer live music, a live performance for children called Alice in Scienceland, storytelling, workshops on gardening, soil testing, crafts for children, farm tours, and free vegetable seedlings. Vendors include the Newburgh Free Library, Cornell Cooperative Extension, health and wellness agencies, other community organizations, and local farmers. Hundreds of people from the City of Newburgh and the greater Newburgh area attend. To help offset our expenses, we offer sponsorships for local businesses and individuals.Nancy Proyect/Virginia KasinkiNewburgh Urban Farming Fairhttps://www.newburghurbanfarmandfood.org/United StatesNewburgh, NYhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/newburghtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/2687562025-03-05T00:00:00Z2025-03-07T22:14:10ZNewcastle – Adios Adiós is an End of Life planning platform for people that would like to leave their family and loved ones with reduced burden, confusion or conflict and instead provide an increased understanding, transparency and clarity on their end of life wishes and arrangements.
Adios is a single touch point for all the information, a step by step process to facilitate informed decision making, providing a central point of reference for both the user and their families. Nook O’DeaAdios http://adios.auAustraliaNewcastlehttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/newcastletag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3304182025-03-05T00:00:00Z2025-03-06T09:19:21ZSydney – Diva Charity Inc. Blessing Table Diva was founded in 2019 by Christina Iskandar who recruited eight female volunteers to rescue food that was intended for landfill and turn it into nutritious meals for the underprivileged, homeless, and anyone doing it tough. Our monthly blessing table food pantry and BBQ connects community. At Diva, we believe access to nutritious and culturally appropriate food is a human right.
Our monthly Blessing Table helps stretch consumers’ budgets while reducing the carbon footprint. Diva receives no government support and raises money from BBQs, fundraisers and trivia nights. Diva has formed close relationships with local community partners who donate both pantry and fresh foods. We are aligned with other NFPs including Homeless Not Nameless by collecting warm blankets and clothing for those in need in winter.
Diva restores hope and dignity, promotes inclusion and self advocacy. The estimated Matraville population is close to 14,000 while half of this number are females raising children.
The 2023 ABS Census estimated mental health conditions in this population was at 6.2%. Diva acts as a referral service, providing information for the community in need. The unmet needs of this community include access to health care, poor nutrition.
Social connection has been proven to assist with both physical and mental health. Diva's Mission is to build a stronger and resilient community, bring community together and assist anyone, especially women needing support.
The money will be used as follows:
• Shade cover for the Monthly blessing table $200
• Chairs for community to sit on $300
• Storage shed for donated non-perishable foods and essential items $500
(we are desperate for storage at present).
Robyn FitzpatrickDiva Charity Inc. Blessing Table http://divacharity.com.auAustraliaSydneyhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/sydneytag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3248782025-03-04T00:00:00Z2025-03-04T15:27:18ZAustin, TX – ROLE:KAWL - Keeping Austin Weird & Live ROLE:KAWL is a weekly competitive open mic and variety show that celebrates artistic expression and community engagement. Hosted at Cheer Up Charlie's every Tuesday night, this event provides a welcoming platform for artists across all disciplines—including poetry, music, drag, comedy, and more—to share their talents with a supportive audience. Participants have the opportunity to compete for a $50 cash prize and a featured spot in a future show, further encouraging their creative growth and exposure.
The mission of ROLE:KAWL is to create a space where individuals can explore liberatory expression and foster community bonding through art. The event is rooted in inclusivity, with a commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for all attendees and participants.
ROLE:KAWL is more than a show—it’s a community-driven initiative that uplifts local artists, strengthens connections, and highlights the importance of art in fostering inclusivity and cultural vibrancy.
A grant from the Austin Awesome Foundation will fund 20 weeks of prizes for the participating artists. Jasmine BeattyROLE:KAWL - Keeping Austin Weird & Live https://amazingaeffects.com/rolekawlUnited StatesAustin, TXhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/austintag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3268232025-02-28T00:00:00Z2025-04-13T16:48:56ZLiverpool – The Community Basket The Community Basket CIC (TCB) is a volunteer led Social Enterprise set up with the aim of alleviating poverty in North Liverpool (L4 and L5) through the provision of food and household items for free or discount prices. Our mission is to reduce food and hygiene poverty among low income families. TCB was named for the baskets of surplus food from a local food pantry that were at risk of going to waste, which from 2020 the founder began to place in her front garden for local residents to help themselves. Over time relationships with local suppliers have developed allowing the basket to provide a range of fresh food, bread, dairy and vegetables as well as hygiene staples. At present around 100kg/week of food and household essentials are redistributed via our community shop each week, meaning around 5 Tonnes of food per year that would other be wasted is making its way to the most disadvantaged in the community. Around 40 households access the shop each week, from regular customers with multiple complex challenges to people facing occasional financial stresses. The ethos of TCB is to reduce stigma for struggling families and community members by creating a community food project that everyone can access, that doesn’t make people justify their need. As a result, access to the Basket is not means tested or restricted to particular groups. Unlike food banks requiring vouchers and with limits to how many times they can be accessed, anyone who feels they will benefit from free or discounted food can access TCB, helping to address long-term and deep-rooted issues of hunger, malnutrition and ill health which help maintain cycles of disadvantage and poverty.
In April 2024, we finally secured our own site to develop the project, the old allotment site in Stanley Park, which we secured on an indefinite lease from the Council, to develop not just our community shop but a food growing hub to benefit the whole community, now supported by Groundworks.Samantha RichardsonThe Community Basket https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091531878987United KingdomLiverpoolhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/liverpooltag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3283342025-02-28T00:00:00Z2025-04-13T16:48:31ZLiverpool – Community Meal and Transport Inclusion We are currently supporting a community meal project lead by those in the asylum system and part of Merseyside Solidarity Knows No Borders. The aim of the project is to provide a regular social space to share food, build connections, organise and find new forms of solidarity and mutual aid. So far, we have supported four highly successful, ‘pre-party’ events, working with Solidarity Knows No Borders, Comforts Angels, Asylum Link Liverpool, Many Hands One Heart and Liverpool Migrant Solidarity Network, primarily with women asylum seekers and refugees. These groups are Liverpool based organisation either led by refugees or collaborative efforts between those with and without citizenship. The meals have been attended by around 40 persons per event. They have been invited through established whatsap groups as well as via paper invitations exchanged at outside the Home Office where people go to ‘sign’. We have had people joining us from as far as Chester, Widnes and Manchester. Alongside food and informal conversation, we also got representatives from some key service provides to join us and were able to give advice ‘on the spot’. For example, someone facing eviction in Manchester was directed to the Manchester Law Centre at one meal. Volunteers have also helped provide entertainment at the meals, this has included a yoga, dance, music and art workshops. We know this had meant a lot to those who have attended, and there is keen interest and enthusiasm for developing the community meal projects. Our events ‘Red City Solidarity Disco’ have been funding the meals so far including transport. These events are organised after the meals, so refugees and asylum seekers can stay (for free) at the party with our wider community. Increasingly people are wanting to join us after the community meal which is great but comes at a loss of fundraising revenue. The transport costs are also significant though make a big difference to participation from this very low income group. Red City Solidarity DiscoCommunity Meal and Transport Inclusion https://www.instagram.com/redcitysolidaritydisco/United KingdomLiverpoolhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/liverpooltag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3323922025-02-28T00:00:00Z2025-03-27T17:58:48ZSan Antonio, TX – TOPM Back to School BashTOPM is located on the far Southeast side of San Antonio in a rural area. For the 2 years we have organized a back to school bash for families that we serve monthly during are food distribution. The back to school bash also covers grades K-12 that attends East Central, Southside and Southeast school districts.
Our goal has been to serve 200 or children with schools supplies, provide free hair cuts, fun activities that they would not normally have the opportunity to do with their family. We also provide lunch and have the local fire department and sheriff department attend to provide finger printing and talk about home and school safety. We also partner with the local food bank to provide snack bags for all the families to take home at the end of the event.Doris MitchellTOPM Back to School Bashhttp://TOPMonline.comUnited StatesSan Antonio, TXhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/sanantoniotag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3224982025-02-28T00:00:00Z2025-03-02T21:24:50ZOttawa – Lens of Hope February’s Awesome Ottawa award goes to [Visionary Voices] (visionaryvoices.ca), a local non-profit creating spaces where stories can challenge systemic inequities, to support video production workshops to empower racialized youth.
“Lens of Hope,” explains co-founder Alois Mulinda Nashali, “will specifically target those in low-income neighbourhoods disproportionately affected by gun violence and substance abuse. Using visual storytelling, we will equip youth with technical skills, provide creative outlets, and foster a sense of belonging within the community.”
“Activities will include bi-weekly video production workshops, monthly storytelling sessions, and awareness programs on substance abuse,” continues Alois. “Youth will engage in community screenings and gala events to showcase their work and spark conversations on critical social issues. The project will not only provide technical skills but also help youth process trauma, build confidence, and create positive pathways.”
[Visionary Voices] (visionaryvoices.ca) is a Black youth-led nonprofit empowering underserved youth. “Our vision,” says Alois, “is a more inclusive, connected, and equitable community where everyone’s voice has the power to inspire action.”Alois Mulinda NashaliLens of Hope https://visionaryvoices.ca/CanadaOttawahttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/ottawatag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3292462025-02-28T00:00:00Z2025-03-05T02:51:38ZToronto – This Is Not Going AwayThis is Not Going Away is a zine making workshop and conversation about the continued effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on queer, chronically ill and disabled communities in 2025. With the onus of public health education, community protection, and self-preservation almost entirely placed on those who are most affected and disenfranchised by the continued dangers of COVID-19, and in increasing amounts of isolation and sickness, how can we join forces to support each other in ways both material and emotional?
This workshop is a space of individuals to share their experiences and collectively brainstorm ways forward together, while contributing to a collective zine. This workshop is for sick and disabled queers and our friends, those of us who are not afraid to keep talking about the reality of COVID-19, and anyone who would like to join back in the conversation after having stepped away from it.
The workshop will be held at the Tranzac Club, 292 Brunswick Ave on Sunday March 30 at 12:00 PM. This program is part of the Toronto Queer Film Festival 2025 Edition.
This Is Not Going Away is run by Francis Tomkins. Francis Tomkins is a queer, chronically ill artist, zine-maker, and accessibility worker living in Tkaronto. Their zine practice focuses on perzines, connecting to community and resisting erasure through personal storytelling. They have worked in communications and accessibility roles at Tangled Art + Disability and StopGap Foundation, and as an accessibility consultant for various galleries, museums and independent artists and curators. Francis has a BFA in Cross-Disciplinary Arts: Publications from OCAD University (the closest thing you can get to a degree in zines).Toronto Queer Film FestivalThis Is Not Going Awayhttps://torontoqueerfilmfest.com/event/this-is-not-going-away-2/CanadaTorontohttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/torontotag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3285412025-02-28T00:00:00Z2025-03-06T20:09:51ZDisability – Therapeutic Pathways in the OutdoorsAt Veterans Exploration Therapy, we use adventure as a catalyst to reach veterans who fall through the cracks of the traditional system. We teach veterans and their families new outdoor exploration skills that support improvements to their mental health and daily lives. Our adventures create supportive environments that foster resilience, connection, and a renewed sense of belonging. We create exciting opportunities for veterans to build confidence and hope through the transformative power of nature.
Our adventures include snowshoeing, cross country skiing, rock climbing, hiking, four-wheeling, fishing, rafting, and other outdoor activities which challenge the participants to overcome physical, mental, and emotional barriers they struggle with. By mastering these challenges together, family bonds are strengthened through the joy of a shared experience.
Since we started in 2022, we have served over 500 veterans and family members, in over 50 adventure trips. Our goal is to conduct 35 adventure trips in 2025.
**What our grantee is saying:** "We’re incredibly grateful for this grant and what it will allow us to do. At Veterans Exploration Therapy, we use outdoor adventure as a tool to help veterans push past their fears, build resilience, and find healing in ways that traditional therapy often can’t provide. This funding directly supports our mission by helping us cover costs for equipment, transportation, and guiding fees—ensuring that every veteran, regardless of financial situation, can access these life-changing experiences.
For many of the veterans we serve, these programs aren’t just about recreation; they’re about rediscovering purpose, reconnecting with a supportive community, and proving to themselves that they are capable of overcoming life’s obstacles. Whether it’s scaling a rock face, diving into the unknown, or simply finding peace in nature, these moments become powerful stepping stones in their healing journey."Deke LetsonTherapeutic Pathways in the Outdoorshttps://www.vetxtherapy.orgWorldwideDisabilityhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/disabilitytag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3198032025-02-28T00:00:00Z2025-03-10T21:54:18ZNew York City, NY – Sew BK-NYCOur February grant has been awarded to **Sew BK-NYC**, a new initiative from Black Girls Sew, a non-profit that envisions a world where every individual, regardless of background, has equal access to sewing and design spaces. Sew BK-NYC is a mobile version of their programming that will reach neighbors beyond Bedford Stuyvesant, where their current studio is located.
In the spring of 2025, in partnership with the Brooklyn Museum, Black Girls Sew will take their sewing classes and mending & repair workshops to marginalized neighborhoods to continue to spread a love for sewing and begin to foster a love for repair & sustainability. There are currently plans for 4 pop-ups throughout the coming year and the AwesomeNYC grant will help pay for additional sewing machines for this mobile program.
* [Learn more about Black Girls Sew on their website](http://www.blackgirlssew.com)
* [Follow them on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/blackgirlssew/)
Hekima HapaSew BK-NYChttp://www.blackgirlssew.comUnited StatesNew York City, NYhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/nyctag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3234682025-02-27T00:00:00Z2025-03-02T16:14:02ZIpswich, MA – Ensuring Extracurricular Opportunities for AllIpswich High School (IHS) is fortunate to offer Engineering courses to interested students. In the Engineering Projects class, students collaborate in teams while competing in an online points race, and develop hands-on skills building their own radio controlled race cars during school hours.
As a culmination to their work, teams that qualify normally attend the Ten80 National RC Racing Competition.
Hopefully, all thirty-eight students will qualify and attend this competition. To do so, they are seeking financial support to make this dream happen. Without fundraising, unfortunately, many interested students will not be able to attend.
This is not only a great collaborative STEM experience but also an opportunity to bond with other like-minded students. For English language learners in particular, this opportunity is beneficial to bonding with other students through the shared experience of competing together.
Among the 38 students, three of them, Dylan Meija Rivas, Darwin Ramirez, and Carlos Colombo (JR) especially need the funds. These three students are multilingual learners and have the additional challenge of English being their second language. Each of these students will tell you why the funds are necessary for them to be able to attend this once in a lifetime trip. Dylan and Darwin are both seniors, so this is their last opportunity to be able to take this class and be part of this competition!
Tim SidmoreEnsuring Extracurricular Opportunities for AllUnited StatesIpswich, MAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/ipswichtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3187832025-02-27T00:00:00Z2025-02-28T01:45:41ZGloucester, MA – Keep our seniors (and others) safeThe news out of Acushnet MA and Wakefield NH Christmas morning is chilling: 2 dead in a house fire in Acushnet, 4 dead from Carbon Monoxide poisoning in Wakefield. Why are people continuously dying needless deaths when affordable and effective detectors are available to prevent such needless tragedies? Are our seniors and others unaware of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning? Do we need to conduct more public education? Are seniors so financially stressed that they feel they can't afford the installation of detectors? My project would provide free public education at the Senior Center and the installation of free smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to hopefully prevent such tragedies in Gloucester in the future. STEPHEN M AIELLOKeep our seniors (and others) safeUnited StatesGloucester, MAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/gloucestertag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3252702025-02-27T00:00:00Z2025-02-28T01:41:52ZGloucester, MA – Project Elm: Year 5Project Elm restores Cape Ann's beloved streetscape while fighting climate change. Dutch Elm Disease devastated millions of American Elms in the 1930s, transforming our tree-lined streets from cathedral-like corridors to barren paths. By 1980, these majestic 80-100 foot trees - which had guided fishermen home and shaded generations - were nearly extinct from our community.
We launched Project Elm in 2021 with a solution: disease-resistant American Elm cultivars that recapture this lost heritage while absorbing carbon and cooling our neighborhoods. In Year 5, we've planted 380 trees toward our 10-year goal of 1,000 across Cape Ann and Ipswich, with 120 more planned this year at $60 per tree. Our initial volunteer campaign, supported by Awesome Rockport and Awesome Gloucester, planted 100 trees in just three weeks.
This grassroots effort combines historical preservation with climate action, giving future generations both the grandeur of old Cape Ann and a more resilient environment. Join us in rebuilding our tree canopy - plant a streetside elm or support our planting fund.Salvatore ZerilliProject Elm: Year 5http://www.capeannelms.comUnited StatesGloucester, MAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/gloucestertag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3283102025-02-26T00:00:00Z2025-02-27T18:38:22ZRhode Island – Authentic Visions from Elders Arbor Hill Assisted Living is a 50-person affordable housing and elder care community in Federal Hill. Residents are formerly homeless or housing insecure elders who live with disabilities, chronic health issues, and face mental health challenges. All are lifelong Rhode Islanders.
The ‘Authentic Visions from Elders’ project will engage residents to create art pieces that are drawn from memories of their life or their visions for the future. Working directly with Rhode Island artist Thea Ernest, residents will be interviewed about their life story and their dreams for the future. At the end of this first interview, the residents will then work with Thea to sketch an image that inspires them. The resident will then participate in an art workshop, where they will learn about various art styles, from watercolor to collage. They will then color or fill in their sketch based on their own inspiration and with Thea’s guidance.
The goal of this project is to uplift the stories, creativity, and dreams of low-income elders, whose voices are often forgotten about and not heard. Connor BurbridgeAuthentic Visions from Elders http://www.facebook.com/ArborHillAssistedLivingUnited StatesRhode Islandhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/rhodeislandtag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3265992025-02-26T00:00:00Z2025-02-26T19:52:28ZYerevan – Մյուզի🐄Musi🐄 հաղորդումը, որը ստեղծվել է My Lead Time Music School-ից, ներկայացնում է նորարարական նախաձեռնություն՝ միախառնելով հայկական մշակույթը, երաժշտությունը և հումորը։ Գյումրիում այս ֆորմատով միակ երաժշտական դպրոցը լինելուց հետո, մենք որոշեցինք ընդլայնել մեր գործունեությունը և ստեղծել Musiկով հաղորդումը, որը կներկայացնի հայկական մշակույթը ժառանգաբար, բայց ժամանակակից ու հետաքրքիր ձևով։
Գյումրին՝ որպես քաղաք, ունի բազմաթիվ մշակութային խնդիրներ, որոնք պահանջում են ժամանակակից մոտեցումներ։ Մեր հաղորդումը նպատակ ունի ոչ միայն պահպանել, այլև ժամանակակից կերպով ներկայացնել հայկական արժեքները՝ մարդկանց համար հասկանալի ու մատչելի ձևով։ Musi🐄-ն միակ հաղորդումն է լինելու, որն ուղղակիորեն կապելու է երաժշտությունն ու հումորը՝ ներկայացնելով հայկական մշակույթը պատմության մեջ։ Այն նաև նպաստելու է հանրային հետաքրքրության ու կրթության աճին։
Այս նախաձեռնությունը կնպաստի Գյումրիի մշակութային կյանքին, կստեղծի նոր հնարավորություններ երիտասարդների համար՝ միաժամանակ քաղաքին դարձնելով մշակութային կենտրոն, որտեղ կարող են ծագել նոր գաղափարներ և նախաձեռնություններ։ Musi🐄 հաղորդման միջոցով մենք նպատակ ունենք բարձրացնել քաղաքի ճանաչողությունը ոչ միայն Հայաստանի ներսում, այլև միջազգային մակարդակում, ներգրավելով մի շարք հյուրեր, արվեստագետներ ու մշակույթի գործիչներ՝ տարբեր ոլորտներից։Ժիրայր Մյուզի🐄https://www.instagram.com/my_lead_time_gyumri?igsh=MWRnMmloOTFnc3dxOA==ArmeniaYerevanhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/yerevantag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3306752025-02-26T00:00:00Z2025-03-12T16:45:35ZState College, PA – Cycling Sustainably: Making an Upcycled Bike RackCommuting on my bike has become one of my biggest passions these last couple of years and I see it as a significant way to reduce waste, improve health and well being, reduce traffic, and lower carbon emissions. I see infrastructure improvements as the best way to get others to utilize sustainable transportation options like biking and using the bus. My goal is to help improve the city I was raised in and love, help reduce waste, by improving cycling infrastructure for it's citizens.
I've taken most of my inspiration from the bike rack in the alleyway of Webster's Bookstore and Cafe, my vision is to make a larger rack with a rain cover outside of Abba Java. This rack will have the capacity to hold 16 bikes, and keep them protected from the elements. I strongly believe that this can all be done for significantly less than what municipal bike racks costs. This type of project will reduce waste by saving old bikes from being thrown away and instead give them a new purpose. It will also have a global impact, by the high traffic to Abba Java by students, seeing sustainable bike infrastructure will inspire them to advocate for this in their hometowns.
I've included photos of the bike racks I have been inspired by, and a rough sketch of what the bike rack I want to create will look like. I met with the borough manager Tom Fountaine last week to discuss this project and he's very interested in this project and willing to help out in any way he can. I have set up meeting with Jasmine Fields of the sustainability office and Rev. Sarah Voight of Abba Java to discuss this project and get approval to begin design and construction. I'm in the process of connecting and meeting with the Planning Director, Zoning Officer, and Lt. Barrett Smith to discuss how this infrastructure can be implemented into the cities improvement projects.
Let me know what you think, I'm searching for areas where I could install these, and I'd really like to help give back to the city that helped me.Connor PriceCycling Sustainably: Making an Upcycled Bike RackUnited StatesState College, PAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/statecollegetag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3251522025-02-25T00:00:00Z2025-02-26T19:21:20ZChicago, IL – Queer little LibraryI started an LGBTQ Center in rural central Wisconsin. Since March of this year, we have done all the steps and received our 501c3 non profit status. We have leased a small space, set up two on-going support groups, hosted a great Thanksgiving Chosen Family Dinner, and have several more programs in the works including Youth centered programming, Queer Prom, Craft and Game nights, Movie nights, and a Mentor/Mentee Program. We spent 3 months on a community survey to determine the needs and desires of the queer community in the area, and RESOURCES was a definite priority.
This will help us grow our resource library for the center. Our wishlist has around $700 worth of books, and we could use some of the money to also purchase shelves in which to place the books!
Rural Wisconsin can be a rough place to grow up queer. Prior to us opening, there wasn't a single resource for LGBTQ+ folx within 100 miles. Because we are rural, and lean relatively one direction politically, it has been difficult to find corporate sponsorship and donors. Most of the Wisconsin-based grants and sponsors tend to be in the southern part of the state - Madison and Milwaukee. We are relying solely on individual contributions right now, but are looking to expand. Kristin ConwayQueer little Libraryhttp://www.outloudmc.orgUnited StatesChicago, ILhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/chicagotag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3252962025-02-24T00:00:00Z2025-03-25T00:54:43ZWashington, DC – Living Library Seed & Plant ExchangeThis Spring I want to build, install, and stock free seed and plant exchange libraries in the most food-insecure wards in D.C.
I believe everyone deserves access to fresh, healthy food and the right to have agency in their own food systems. Through the Living Library initiative we aim to create a resilient, community-driven food system where neighbors not only access the tools to grow their own food but also actively contribute to sustaining this project for the future.
The Living Library will feature "Little Free Libraries" stocked with seeds, and seedlings. Each library will also include a QR code linking to a virtual library with e-books and instructional videos on urban gardening. This combination of physical and virtual resources aims to guide individuals from planting to harvest, regardless of their gardening experience. Each library will also have an attached self-seeding garden planted with aromatic herbs anyone can harvest and pollinator-attracting native wildflowers.
I'm partnering with Community Forklift, Little Free Library, local artists, and businesses to create and host the libraries. Seeds and seedlings will be restocked monthly through generous donations from seed companies. Eventually, the initiative will rely on community contributions, allowing the libraries to become self-sustaining while continuing to provide ongoing support.Andrew GallegosLiving Library Seed & Plant Exchangehttps://foodsovereigntyforall.com/United StatesWashington, DChttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/dctag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3280612025-02-20T00:00:00Z2025-02-21T14:14:56ZKingston – Head Lice Be Gone At Molly Brant, JG Simcoe and Rideau Heights Elementary Schools, located in a low socioeconomic area, we are committed to supporting our underserved student population in every way possible. One of the challenges we frequently face is students with persistent head lice infestations, which can negatively affect their well-being, self-esteem, and ability to focus in school. Many of these families cannot afford the necessary treatment products or the resources needed for proper home care, leaving the issue unresolved and creating long-term challenges for the children and their families.
To address this, we propose creating head lice care packages for families in need. Each package will include essential items to treat and manage head lice effectively: a high-quality zigzag lice comb (which is more efficient than traditional combs), lice shampoo, gloves, and a detailed pamphlet with step-by-step treatment instructions. The inclusion of these resources will empower families to treat lice infestations in their homes without the financial burden that often prevents proper care.
With a grant of $1,000, we can produce 46 care packages, directly assisting 46 students and their families. By providing these resources free of charge, we aim to break the cycle of persistent lice infestations and create a healthier, more inclusive school environment where all students can thrive. This project will also serve as a foundation for increasing awareness and destigmatizing lice treatment, fostering an atmosphere of care and understanding in our school community.Leah CareyHead Lice Be Gone CanadaKingstonhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/kingston-ontag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3239582025-02-18T00:00:00Z2025-02-19T20:34:11ZOahu, HI – Keeping Siblings Connected is AWESOME!Project Visitation (PV) was created by the State of Hawaii First Circuit Family Court and the Hawaii State Department of Human Services (DHS) to provide monthly visits and quarterly events for sibling groups separated by the foster care system. The purpose of this program is for siblings to maintain relationships between brother(s) and sister(s) living in separate foster homes. Depending on the size of sibling group, a family of six can be separated into two, three, or more homes. Losing contact with one another can place even more of a strain in this traumatic process of finding a forever-family when they are unable to see their siblings.
PV seeks to minimize the trauma of family separation by preserving sibling relationships through regularly scheduled visits that they can look forward to every month. By bringing siblings together in a fun and safe environment, Project Visitation utilizes volunteers to give children the opportunity to create family memories they otherwise would not have.
Resource caregivers (RCGs or Foster Parents) are not always able to schedule with other RCG's in order to keep these bonds connected between the sibling groups, so Family Programs Hawaii has made this a high-priority and PV is one of our flagship programs. The outings together teach keiki the importance of maintaining healthy sibling relationships and seeks to minimize the trauma of family separation through these scheduled visits.
Once a month, our volunteers drive from all corners of the island to pick them up and host fun outings that provide vital bonding opportunities for the brothers and sisters. A meeting place is arranged at a park, playground, the beach, or simply at a place to grab a bite to eat and just catch up for a couple of hours.
In addition, PV also coordinates quarterly events, with the support of our community business leaders who host a day at the Zoo, or going bowling, ice skating, or creating memories with each other working in a lo'i patch.
Tina ScottyKeeping Siblings Connected is AWESOME!https://familyprogramshawaii.org/program/project-visitation/United StatesOahu, HIhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/oahutag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3236322025-02-18T00:00:00Z2025-02-19T18:39:54ZSan Antonio, TX – Youth Entrepreneur Pop Up MarketFor the Culture is a community-based, diverse and inclusive homeschool 501(c)(3) nonprofit located in San Antonio, Our Youth Entrepreneur Pop-Up Market offers students the chance to create, develop, and sell their own products. This one-day business fair gives kids hands-on experience in every step of the entrepreneurial process. They brainstorm ideas and price their products, design logos and create promotional signs.
With 25+ youth businesses participating, this event is a celebration of creativity and hard work. The kids are responsible for interacting with customers, making sales, and managing their profits, which helps them build skills like financial literacy, marketing, and customer service. Along the way, they gain confidence, responsibility, and a strong work ethic. This will be our 4th market and the kids get better every time. We had several visitors stop by to and comment on how independent and driven the kids were
We’re passionate about empowering kids to explore their interests, set goals, and turn their ideas into reality. Our Youth Pop-Up Market is an opportunity for them to experience the power of entrepreneurship, while reinforcing the values of teamwork, communication, and resilience. Jennifer VermeYouth Entrepreneur Pop Up Markethttps://www.fortheculturehomeschool.com/pop-up-marketUnited StatesSan Antonio, TXhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/sanantoniotag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3303542025-02-18T00:00:00Z2025-02-19T20:34:31ZOahu, HI – 100 Years of Washington Middle SchoolThe after school Art Club and advanced art students will create a mosaic mural to celebrate Anthony D. Allen who is credited to the first days of Washington Middle School almost 100 years ago.
This mural will be located by the Anthony D. Allen plaque. Mia Fitzgerald100 Years of Washington Middle SchoolUnited StatesOahu, HIhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/oahutag:www.awesomefoundation.org,2005:Project/3220632025-02-17T00:00:00Z2025-03-17T20:18:33ZPittsburgh, PA – Live from the Parking PadLive from the Parking Pad is a community-focused, site-specific gig: the concert takes place on a two-car parking pad in a yard that is the perfect stage. Dormont neighbors also show their support for these well-produced concerts with a community potluck and party. Artists are paid a guaranteed rate and fans support by paying for tickets and bringing food to share. It is community created through music.Stefan FlowerLive from the Parking Padhttp://theparkingpad.comUnited StatesPittsburgh, PAhttps://www.awesomefoundation.org/pt/chapters/pittsburgh