Today, when I read this blog post on Exponent Philanthropy - Making a Little Go Far: How We Spark Economic Renewal in Our Rural Community I knew I had to share it as part of my Year of Change series. The post highlights the work of the William Stretesky Foundation which, in my opinion, is a breath of fresh air to traditional grantmaking.
The foundation is based in the northeastern corner of rural Colorado - Julesburg, Colorado which so happens to be the birthplace of my mother. It was formed almost 20 years ago from the estate of Mr. Stretesky that included over 11,000 acres of farmland. Grant dollars are generated through the ongoing leasing of this land to farmers.
So far, the foundation has awarded more than $7 million and is set to award $1 million yearly moving forward.
As in many rural communities, the area is struggling economically. As such, the foundation focuses on projects to enhance small businesses and nonprofits, historical preservation, and community improvement..
In the post, Kimberly Orth, executive director of the foundation highlights several projects she consideres their “most successful and popular.”
I encourage you to read the full post, but here is a teaser.
When was the last time you read of a foundation working with partners to develop a campaign focused on shopping local by allowing residents to buy $500 of local currency, called Bucks, at $450?
Or the Pay-It-Forward campaign where local businesses apply for utility credits in exchange for a small donation or item to be raffled through ticket sales? (Proceeds from the raffle benefit the local schools and nonprofits.)
Their COVID pivot was the 2020 Youth Corp campaign that employed 16 teenagers to paint curbs and buildings, pick up branches following storms, weed, help with story hours at the library, and more. A win-win for local teens and the community.
This post highlights creative thinking at its best. It is a reminder of the flexibility foundations have in awarding funding and of the impact of one man’s gift to his community. All of us can learn from Mr. Stretesky.
Photograph by Dan Meyers Dan Meyers @dmey503