November 1, 2005 marked an important milestone in the on-going development of Yakima Valley Community Foundation, as the first-ever grant awards were announced.
A total of 68 nonprofit organizations throughout Yakima County submitted applications in the program areas of Health, Education, Community Development, Human and Social Services and Arts & Culture. Nine grants were awarded. The 2005 YVCF grant recipients include:
Yakima Valley Museum $6,000
Funds to purchase specialized audio-visual equipment and multi-purpose tables to enhance exhibit and program capabilities in order to offer a broader range of service to museum patrons.
Friends of the Buena Library $35,000
Buena has no facility to support civic, cultural and social activities within that unincorporated community of the lower valley. YVCF funds support a needs assessment and demographic survey, along with initial architect design fees to further the development of a Buena Town Center.
People for People $25,000
Foundation funds provide start-up costs for the Washington Information Network "2-1-1" program, a regional call center that connects Eastern Washington residents to non life-threatening health and social services information.
Sea Mar at Wapato Community Center $8,000
Funding for the purchase of sports and exercise equipment at the Wapato Community Center gymnasium. Equipment will serve all ages, from youth to senior citizens.
Yakima Neighborhood Health Services $40,000
Equipment for a new medical/dental clinic at Yakima's Triumph Treatment Center to serve healthcare needs of chronically homeless persons.
Diocese of Yakima Housing Services $23,000
This grant supports safe, decent and affordable housing for low-income families, along with educational programs that empower residents to seek local solutions to community problems.
Davis High School Library Media Center $14,000
Support for an after-hours program that provides students and community citizens access to a state-of-the-art computer center, tutoring and other learning opportunities.
Nuestra Casa $9,000
This grant bolsters an innovative program in Sunnyside that provides health and educational programs for Spanish-speaking women, many of whom are among the poorest and least served in Yakima County.
Yakima Valley Community College $40,000
Support for the YVCC Allied Health Technology Project at the Grandview campus, where students will be trained for healthcare careers in Nursing, Pharmacy Technology, Medical Billing & Coding, Medical Interpreter, Radiologic Sciences and Surgical Technology.