Elevate Akron Initiative, Community Programs Receive Boost from GAR Foundation

The GAR Foundation has awarded $350,000 to support Elevate Akron, a new collaboration between the Greater Akron Chamber and the Akron city and Summit County governments to advance the region’s economy.

The grant was announced Tuesday as part of nearly $1.7 million in foundation support to local organizations this quarter.

“Elevate Akron is aligning economic development players around the present and future realities of our region’s economy,” said Christine Mayer, GAR Foundation’s president, in a news release. “Through this data-driven framework, economic development partners will be able to support stronger opportunities for Akron’s residents and companies.”

Other recipients announced Tuesday (grants are for operations unless otherwise noted):

• Akron Civic Theatre, $85,000.

• ArtsNow, $100,000 for the Arts & Culture Plan.

• ASIA Inc, $50,000 for International Community Empowerment Project.

• BMe Akron, $30,000.

• Building for Tomorrow, $90,000 for the Early Childhood Initiative.

• Foundation Center, $10,000.

• Fund for Our Economic Future, $500,000 over three years.

• Kenmore Neighborhood Alliance, $20,000.

• Nightlight Cinema, $30,000.

• None Too Gragile, $8,750 for the 2019 Off-Broadway Series.

• Northeast Ohio Center for Choreography, $20,000.

• Project GRAD, $60,000 for the College and Career Central Program.

• Summit Artspace, $10,000 for strategic planning.

• Summit Education Initiative, $200,000.

• Torchbearers, $7,500.

• Tri-County JOG, $75,000.

• Tuesday Musical Association, $50,000.

The GAR Foundation was established in 1967 by Galen Roush, co-founder and chief executive officer of Roadway Express, and his wife Ruth Roush. Its mission is to help Akron become smarter, stronger, and more vibrant. Visit www.garfoundation.org for more information.

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