The final round of sponsorship awards was allocated to six local nonprofits. Since the beginning of the year, we have proudly supported 30 events with a total of $30,000 in grants, made possible by the generosity of Ascend Bank (formerly GSB). These initiatives, organized by our community partners, truly highlight the unique spirit of Guilford.

This funding is dedicated to nonprofits serving the Guilford area, focusing on events and programs that boost fundraising efforts and raise brand awareness.

Program Director Jennifer Mullett commented, “As with our grantmaking, this year we witnessed an unprecedented number of sponsorship requests. Although we aspire to give as much as we can, our annual budget is $30,000, generously provided by Ascend Bank. The Development Committee diligently reviewed the submissions, prioritizing local organizations’ needs, assessing current TGF funding, and considering the extent of the impact on Guilford residents.” Awards during this round ranged from $500 to $1,000.

Executive Director Liza Janssen Petra added, “We are grateful for Ascend Bank’s support of this program that allows us to extend additional funding to our community partners outside of our grantmaking. The sponsored events celebrate our vibrant arts scene, rich heritage, and cherished traditions that make Guilford such a fantastic place to live.”

2025 Sponsorship Recipients (Third Round-July)

TGF evaluates sponsorship applications three times each year: January, April, and July. To qualify for sponsorship, organizations must be tax-exempt and provide programs or services that directly benefit the Guilford community and align with The Guilford Foundation’s and Ascend Bank’s values. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit TGF’s online grant portal to submit their application.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ascend Bank began partnerships with four community foundations, including TGF, redirecting $100,000 in sponsorship funds to these organizations. This strategy reflects the bank’s commitment to addressing local needs and having a profound impact on the communities it serves.