Editor’s Note: The following was provided by the Whitewater Community Foundation.
The Whitewater Community Foundation (WCF) has presented the fall 2024 grants, which include $637 to the Whitewater Area League of Women Voters and $2,500 to the City of Whitewater.
“These action grants support the Whitewater Community Foundation’s mission to enhance Whitewater’s quality of life for all people,” said Kat Mawhinney, WCF Co-President.
Whitewater Area League of Women Voters – The League received a Grant of $637 towards a banner for suspension above Main Street to notify the community about upcoming elections.
From the League: The League’s VOTE Banner has been flying over Main Street for virtually every election since at least the 1980s and possibly earlier. It was replaced about 10 years ago and that banner, also hand-painted, recently suffered tears, which were repaired but also weakened the banner’s overall durability. The banner is hung over Main Street for a week prior to any given election. A League member has the job of scheduling the banner with the city, repainting the election date, delivering the banner to the city garage for hanging, and picking it up afterwards The banner reminds the community to vote; the more members of the community that vote, the better the outcome of that vote represents the will of the community.
City of Whitewater – The city received a grant of $2500 for the City of Whitewater Public Art Installation Project.
From the City: The City of Whitewater’s Economic Development Department seeks to utilize the grant funds to support public art installations within key areas of the city, particularly in high-traffic zones such as the downtown area, public parks, and civic spaces. The primary goals of these installations are to enhance the visual appeal of these spaces, reflect the unique history and culture of Whitewater, and foster community pride.
This initiative will be part of a larger effort to integrate public art into city planning, attract tourism, and encourage creative economic development strategies.
Whitewater will experience several significant benefits:
l . Cultural Enrichment and Beautification.
2. Boost to Local Economy and Tourism.
3. Community Identity and Pride.
4. Opportunities for Local Artists.
5. Educational and Social Impact.
By investing in public art, Whitewater positions itself as a forward-thinking, vibrant community that values creativity, culture, and inclusivity, further enhancing its reputation as a great place to live, work, and visit.
Twice a year, the Whitewater Community Foundation offers Community Action Grants for projects that the community and board of directors believe are worthwhile and beneficial to various segments of the population. Grant proposals are due on April 30th and October 31st of each year.
“The Foundation remains committed to funding projects that foster community engagement. We encourage more local organizations to apply for our upcoming grants and continue making a positive impact,” said Mawhinney.
Organizations interested in pursuing a Whitewater Community Foundation Action Grant should contact info@whitewatercommunityfoundation.org.The next grant requests are due April 30.
The Foundation continues to provide and host scholarships for Whitewater High School students and also offers fiscal sponsorship to organizations that are seeking 501(c) (3) status or require temporary pass-through funds for worthy community projects.
More information about the Whitewater Community Foundation can be found at whitewatercommunityfoundation.org and on Facebook.
The Whitewater Community Foundation’s mission is to “enhance quality of life in the Whitewater area via educational, cultural, charitable or benevolent expenditures.”
