Press release from the Guilford Foundation

The Guilford Foundation (TGF) distributed $109,200 to 28 community-serving organizations through its 2023 grantmaking program. The awards, ranging from $1,000 to $12,500, support vital area programs and services utilized and valued by Guilford residents.

“Our applications were up 37% from 2022, which is exciting as we are always looking to support new nonprofit partners. The grantmaking process starts with establishing a theme and priorities for the year that provide the framework to make decisions,” explained Alexander Sulpasso, Community Investment Committee Chair. “This year’s theme is wellbeing with key focus areas of mental health, basic needs, and strengthening our community.”

TGF’s 2023 grant distribution includes; the Women and Family Life Center, the Guilford Art Center, Special Olympics Connecticut, the Ethan Miller Song Foundation, the Dudley Foundation, Camp Hazen, the Community Dining Room, and the Legacy Theatre.

Over the past five years, assets have more than doubled, growing from $2.9 million in 2018 to the current value of $6.5 million, thanks to donor generosity. As a result of the larger endowment, TGF more than doubled the number of grants given to the community.

“Our 2023 grant recipients are doing tremendous work to move our community forward. We’re proud of the diversity of services and programming they bring to our Guilford residents,” commented Liza Janssen Petra, executive director. “Grantmaking is really at the heart of what we do as a community foundation.”

Nonprofit organizations will have another opportunity for funding through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The Town of Guilford’s Board of Selectman appointed TGF to disburse $500,000 in federal funding to nonprofits serving Guilford that are still recovering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Grant applications will be available at the end of June. Visit the TGF website for more information.

The mission of The Guilford Foundation is to enrich the quality of life in the community by connecting people who care with causes that matter now and for generations to come. For more information about The Guilford Foundation and a full list of this year’s recipients, visit guilfordfoundation.org or 203-640-4049.