For the first time since it began grantmaking in 2003, the Gorge Community Foundation’s annual grantmaking has reached half a million dollars in a single year.

Foundation Executive Director Jill Burnette made the announcement after December grants were approved by the board of directors at its Monday board meeting.  The grants included $393,000 in grants to local organizations and $107,000 in scholarships, all issued during calendar year 2023.  Board Chair Gil Sharp said it was remarkable achievement for a small community foundation, and a testament to the generosity of fundholders and the strength of our region’s non-profit organizations.  Gorge Community Foundation donor advisors may grant 5% of their fund’s balance each year to qualified non-profit, municipal, and educational institutions.  Donor advisors choose a wide variety of causes for their support, including arts and culture, environment, education, youth, health care, sports, animal welfare, seniors, food security, and social services.  They are welcome to make contributions to any qualified organizations of their choice with GCF board approval, but most choose to focus their giving in the six counties that comprise the Gorge.