Grants Awarded in 2021

Bloomington Junior High School- $2750

“BJHS Student Services Health Clinic” to organize a medical clinic in order to provide access to the required vaccines and physical exams for disadvantaged students transitioning from virtual learning to face-to-face education.

Fostering Dignity- $246.31

“Backpacks for Youth” provides backpacks to Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) investigators to give children being removed from their homes so that they can carry their belongings, eliminating the use of a garbage bag.

Friends of the Constitution Trail- $1500

“McBloNo Kids Bike” to purchase bicycle helmets to support Safe Routes to School bicycle education program for elementary and middle school students in McLean County.

Illinois Art Station- $1200

“smARTS Lab” is a STEAM based program for youth ages 11 to 14 that provides youth an opportunity to explore a variety of art making techniques and mediums. IAS art educators will design and facilitate the experiences and learning, but the art projects, materials and specific themes will be determined by the youth participants themselves.

Jump 4 Joy Squad- $346.69

“Flooring for Jump 4 Joy Squad Team & Community Classes” to purchase removable flooring, allowing the squad to use any location with the best results for jump rope, as well as providing for the physical health and safety of participants.

McLean County Children’s Advocacy Center- $450

“Telehealth Therapy Boxes” will be utilized when children and adolescents are participating in virtual therapy sessions. Clients will receive a box of age-appropriate supplies specifically to be used during therapy, which could include a journal, writing and coloring supplies, positive affirmation cards, meditation exercise cards, stress balls, PlayDoh, and bubbles to practice deep breathing.

Normal West Promise Council- $1000

“Promise Council Needs Room” is a safe space at NCWHS where any of our students can go to obtain food and supplies to meet physical needs that would otherwise go unmet. Grant will provide money to restock room.

Regional Alternative School- $2000

“RAS Trade Skills Integration” will provide students with Trade Skills Introduction program in which students will expand their vocational knowledge in basic construction and woodworking skills. Students will learn through hands-on experience using tools and techniques used n a professional trade setting.

Vespasian Warner Public Library- $1012

“Kindles for Kids” will purchase 4 Kindle devices for youth programs to bridge the local digital divide and allow all youth to experience the excitement of reading on a digital platform.

West Bloomington Revitalization Project- $1175

“Seeds for Change” enlists the help of community youth to start seeds for the Westside Bloomington Community Garden. This program will teach youth about food insecurity, starting plants from seed and caring for others.