Ten Local Projects Funded by First Christian Church’s Inspiring Generosity Program

By: Forgottonia Times™ Report

Photo courtesy of Jessa Wenger of First Christian Church

First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Canton has announced the recipients of its 2024 Inspiring Generosity Grants, awarding $10,260 across ten community-focused projects. The grants were revealed during the church's worship service on Sunday, November 24, as part of its mission to support creative initiatives addressing education, poverty, personal care, and human services.

The grant program, an outgrowth of the church's vision of "Passionate Spirituality, Joyful Service, and Inspiring Generosity," attracted 17 proposals from area nonprofits. Ultimately, 10 projects were selected, ranging from educational enhancements to community support initiatives.

Among the awards was $2,000 for the YMCA's "STEAM Activities" program, which provides resources for after-school creative learning. Other educational programs included $750 for The Friends of Westview Elementary to fund a sensory room and $900 for Lincoln Elementary School's "Becoming a Better Me," an after-school yoga initiative that promotes wellness and mindfulness in collaboration with The Breathing Tree.

Several awards supported human services, such as $1,000 for Lutheran Social Services to create a safe visitation space for foster families and $1,572 for The Salvation Army to supply household items during its Angel Tree event. The Fulton County Health Department's Breast Cancer Support Group also received $663 for supplies, and the Fulton County Rehabilitation Center was granted $750 for a Fine Motor Activity Center.

The church extended support to community-wide initiatives as well, awarding $1,375 to the "Back-to-School Bash," which provides supplies and meals for students preparing for the academic year. Ingersoll Middle School's "Guidance Counselor Care Closet" received $750 to meet specialized needs for families.

Funded through the Ingersoll Trust Fund, the grants are designed "for individuals and organizations in the Canton area to pursue a creative project to serve people in need or to better the community through service."  Proposals that achieve these goals through unique avenues are especially considered. Applications for the 2025 cycle will open next fall, with updates available at cantonfcc.org/grants.