Feb. 20, 2025
Six agencies receive grants; about $14,000 remains available
The Community Foundation of the Ozarks has selected the second round of recipients of its Inclusion & Belonging Grants for the 2024–25 grant cycle. The program supports small grant requests to ensure equitable participation and engagement in communities across the region.
The six recipients, receiving a total of $14,100, are:
- Empower: Abilities: $3,000 to support the Restaurant Access Points Initiative, a program that improves accessibility in local restaurants, educates community members on accessibility standards, amplifies the voices of people with disabilities and drives change in the private sector.
- Lincoln School Project: $3,000 to support the Lincoln University Music Department’s visit to West Plains for a Black History Month event on Feb. 22.
- Nixa Public Schools: $1,500 to install a classroom sensory swing for students with sensory needs.
- Ozarks Regional YMCA: $1,500 to support the Pat Jones YMCA Lunch and Learn program that provides opportunities for older adults to connect and learn in a welcoming environment.
- Remember to Dream Therapeutic Riding Center: $2,100 to support the Sponsor a Rider project in central Missouri, providing a rider with equine therapy from certified instructors at the Cole Camp-based riding center.
- Special Olympics Missouri: $3,000 to expand inclusive sports opportunities through Unified Basketball programs in southwest Missouri high schools, including Webb City, Nixa and Republic.
About $14,000 remains available in the Inclusion & Belonging Grant Program. Agencies may apply for up to $3,000 to support expenses related to:
- Ensuring diverse representation in leadership roles and the community;
- Providing students with equitable opportunity for community engagement and leadership; and
- Hosting events that ensure visible representations of belonging in the Ozarks.
Applications are reviewed and awarded through May 1. To learn more about the CFO’s grant application process, visit cfozarks.org/applyforgrants.
