The last Bright Ideas Community Enrichment Fund grant cycle in 2018 is now complete. The external review committee deliberated over several grant applications for those that address a high community need, embrace diversity and inclusion, are sustainable, and have impact on education, health and/or community vitality. After thoughtful and thorough discussion, the following Wapello County nonprofit organizations were awarded:
- Cardinal A-Club to install a new backstop at the Cardinal High School baseball field
- Eddyville Historical Museum towards the completion of the new museum and community meeting space
- Friends of NAS Ottumwa, Inc. to assist with insulating the 1st and 2nd floors of the Ottumwa Naval Air Station
- Ottumwa Public Library Friends receive matching funds that will provide new public technology tools and educational programs at the Ottumwa Public Library
- Seton Catholic School to assist with the completion of the playground in combination with a KaBOOM! Playground Grant sponsored by the local Dr. Pepper Snapple group
- TENCO Industries to assist with remodeling a space for their new Adult Day Care program
- Wapello Heritage Foundation to assist with the development of infrastructure at Pearson Park, a new nature/park area
- Wapello County Sheriff’s Reserve to purchase new body armor that will protect 15 Wapello County Sheriff’s Reserve volunteers
This funding cycle completes the 7th year of Bright Ideas Community Enrichment Fund grants. The Bright Ideas program was created to support local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that serve the residents of Wapello County. The Bright Ideas program has supported 249 projects with over $3.2 million dollars in grants. The Bright Ideas Community Enrichment Fund has three competitive grant cycles each year and awards up to $450,000 a year. The next grant cycle opens February 1, 2019. If you would like more information or assistance with the online grant application, please email Amy Nossaman or call 641.455.5260.
