The Guilford Foundation (TGF) announces the distribution of $117,800 in community impact grants to 42 area nonprofits. These grants, ranging from $1,000 to $8,000, support vital programs and services that significantly benefit Guilford residents.

In 2024, TGF experienced a record-breaking year, receiving 52 grant applications—a 38% increase from the previous year. The total funding requested was $379,118, marking an 80% rise from last year’s figures. This increase underscores the growing needs within our community and the expanding role of TGF in addressing them.

“Historically, we’ve funded between 20 to 30 grants annually, but this year we reached an unprecedented 42 grants,” said Alex Sulpasso, TGF Board and Community Investment Committee Chair. “Our rigorous process of prioritizing focus areas and aligning with our mission ensures that our donors’ contributions are directed to nonprofits that uphold our values and create the greatest positive impact on the community.”

2024 Guiding Principles and Grant Award Percentages:

• 28% Basic Needs:
  • Prioritizing those most at risk and services, including food, shelter, and emergency financial assistance.
• 58% Strengthening Our Community:
  • Child and Youth Development (childcare, education, development)
  • Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI)
  • Arts and Culture
  • Innovative initiatives that bolster community strength
• 14% Mental Health:
  • Promoting awareness, prevention, and intervention related to mental health and substance misuse

“Our annual grantmaking is central to our mission of enhancing the quality of life in Guilford by connecting people who care with causes that matter,” said TGF Executive Director Liza Janssen Petra. “These grants empower dedicated nonprofit partners committed to addressing our community’s evolving needs. We are profoundly grateful to our generous donors who understand and value the impact of local giving.”

The funds for these grants come from charitable donations made by individuals, families, businesses, and organizations that comprise The Guilford Foundation’s endowment. Over the past five years, donor support has doubled our endowment to over $6.5 million as of December 31, 2024. This growth directly translates to increased funding for grantmaking.

Sulpasso added, “Last year, we partnered with the Town of Guilford to disburse $1 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act funds. This historic process introduced us to new charitable organizations serving Guilford that had not previously applied for a TGF community grant. The 2024 grant recipients represent a blend of core services from organizations like the Women and Family Life Center, Guilford Art Center, and Guilford Center for Children, alongside new community partners such as Junior Achievement of Southern New England, Syd’s Book Shack & Boutique, and Alex, Inc. We are committed to expanding our reach by adding new grant partners to maximize our community impact.”

The Guilford Foundation’s annual grant cycle starts in January.  All nonprofits serving the Guilford community are welcome to apply. 

Click here to visit The Guilford Foundation website for a list of the 2024 community grant recipients and funding awards.