Four times a year the Boston Foundation distributes grants to nonprofit organizations working to improve the quality of life in schools, in the great outdoors and in different areas of the city.
Last week, the Boston Foundation announced its most recent round of grants totaled over $15 million. During its last fiscal year, the foundation’s grantmaking reached $79 million.
Thus far in 2009 environmental issues have remained a top priority of the charitable group which awarded one of its largest grants – $250,000 – to the Boston Energy Alliance to help establish Boston as a leader in the climate change debate.
Nearly $130,000 in grant money will help organizations in East Boston and Chelsea to get young residents involved in environmental issues and support projects that will benefit the communities.
A smaller grant of $25,000 will be used by Piers Park Sailing Center to expand is Science and Sailing program into a curriculum for young children exploring the water and wildlife in and around the Boston area.
Meanwhile, at a time when museums and other arts programs are reeling from waning donations, Boston area cultural programs have been given a boost with new donations.
In support of local artists and performing troupes, Actors’ Shakespeare Project and Franklin Park Coalition are set to receive grants for $50,000 and $20,000 respectively to put on theater productions, screen outdoor films and display works of artists from the area.
The Boston Foundation, which is made up of roughly 900 separate charitable funds and has assets of $763 million, remains committed to advancing education initiatives in the metro area.
Grant money has been allocated to a number of educational development programs and learning centers as well as after-school type activities that keep Boston’s youth active and engaged. One of the grants will help send metro Boston kids to summer camps.