WATSONVILLE — The Rotary Club of Watsonville has released its updated guidelines for the next cycle of community grant applications, and is inviting eligible organizations to learn more.
The community grants are specifically designed for local nonprofit youth organizations which adhere to the club’s areas of interest. In particular, the club is looking for groups which help prevent youth violence and encourage youth education and skills development.
The grants are separate from Rotary’s individual educational scholarships, which are organized through local high schools’ counseling departments.
“We are always looking for ways to benefit multiple children,” said Colleen Wallau, this year’s Grants Review Committee Chair. “By giving support to an entire organization, we can do just that.”
The Rotary Club of Watsonville recently decided to extend its grant program to other parts of the county. Organizations applying do not need to be located in Pajaro Valley, as long as they directly benefit South County regions, including Watsonville, Pajaro, La Selva, Corralitos, Freedom, Aromas and Royal Oaks.
According to Wallau, the decision was made by the club in attempt to “broaden its reach” to organizations in the county that might not know of their programs.
The current application cycle period began on Oct. 15 and will remain open until March 1, 2018. Accepted applicants will be awarded in June 2018 to help fund projects starting later in the year.
“We want our local youth to feel empowered to make positive choices, both now and later in life,” Wallau said. “They are not only improving their own lives through these programs but also learning to give back to their community.”
In the past year, Rotary Club of Watsonville awarded 10 separate $1,000 and $1,500 grants to local nonprofit organizations, including ones to the Boy Scouts of America, Teen Kitchen Project, Pajaro Valley Shelter Services and Youth N.O.W.
Jenna Rodriguez, director of operations at Youth N.O.W., explained how the grant has helped jumpstart the organization’s new middle school program expansion.
“It’s the first grant we’ve received,” Rodriguez said. “It’s a big deal. With Rotary’s help, we’ve been able to show other donors and businesses that we aren’t starting with nothing. And that what we do is important and deserving of support.”
Those interested in applying for a grant are encouraged visit watsonvillerotary.com/community-grants to review the updated guidelines. For information, contact Wallau at cw*****@ao*.com or 607-9467.
