Community Foundation announces 2009 grants

The Community Foundation of Shreveport-Bossier announces the award of $1,526,428 in competitive grants to 36 local nonprofit agencies and another $135,000 in scholarships. These awards, which support projects ranging from social services to the arts, make a critical difference in the success of vital area programs. Since its creation in 1961, the Foundation has awarded more than $30 million in grants and scholarships to benefit the Shreveport-Bossier community.

Due to the current economic climate and a documented increase in clients seeking health and human services, more than 60 percent of the Foundation’s grants were made to organizations that provide these types of programs. The Caddo Council on Aging received $95,000 for the Meals on Wheels program; $30,000 was awarded to the Northwest Louisiana Food Bank to provide food for school children enrolled in the free- and reduced-lunch program during the times schools are closed -- weekends and school holidays; and Martin Luther King Health Clinic received $46,087 to provide health care and prescription assistance to the working poor.

Education remains a priority area for the Foundation. “Our board places great value on education as the foundation for a healthy community. The grants we gave support a wide array of effective programs ranging from after-school academic enrichment to adult literacy,” said Bobby Jelks, board chairman. The Community Foundation continues to support Volunteers of America’s LightHouse Program, which provides after-school and wrap-around services to 600 children and their families annually. The program consistently reports positive outcomes for students: 100 percent of participating students remained in school; 96 percent promoted to the next grade; 74 percent of students taking the LEAP passed; 100 percent remained pregnancy free; and 99 percent had no involvement with juvenile court.

One of the most innovative programs funded is Shreveport Regional Arts Council’s Big Read Project. As part of a monthlong celebration focusing on the Great Depression and the New Deal, over 11,000 eighth-grade students in northwest Louisiana will simultaneously read The Grapes of Wrath and participate in related enrichment activities.

Since 1961, The Community Foundation of Shreveport-Bossier has been a significant resource for programs that address the most pressing needs in our area. The Foundation’s unrestricted and designated funds continue to grow through the gifts of community-minded givers who take a strategic, long-term view of philanthropy. “We are grateful for the foresight of our donors whose contributions enable the Foundation to take a leadership role in meeting today’s critical needs,” said Paula Hickman, Executive Director.