Grange Foundation OK’s 2 new funds

WASHINGTON, D.C. – At their August meeting, the Grange Foundation board members approved the addition of two new funding streams for the 501(c)(3).

These streams allow donors to allocate money for projects related to areas of cultural, artistic and history as well as leadership training and community service.

The funds, called the “American Arts and Culture” and “Community and Leadership Development” streams, will also allow the Grange Foundation to approach larger outside donors and foundations interested in work done to celebrate and improve rural America.

“We believe this move will allow us to appeal to a greater base of donors and help develop a greater array of funded programs,” Grange Foundation President Ed Luttrell said.

The American Arts and Culture fund will support initiatives related to American handycraft and folk art, historical preservation and enactment, cultural displays and performances and other activities that showcase artistic talent, Grange heritage and American historical movements in rural areas.

Contributions will be used for, but not limited to, funding educational opportunities that engage new audiences with folk art and craftmaking, such as quilt shows and quilt making; the portrayal and preservation of historic cultural events and artifacts, such as the display of the 1873 Degrees by Grange Youth at the O.H. Kelley Farm; and other projects related to this area of interest, Luttrell said.

The Community and Leadership Development Fund will support efforts by Granges across the country and the National Grange that have impact on communities in which Granges are located and on the personal growth of Grange members.

Luttrell said grants and contributions will fund many initiatives such as scholarships to attend leadership training opportunities, community service projects that impact rural areas, and more.

The fund will help the National, State and local Granges to fulfill their mission of educating large and small communities about agriculture, civic engagement, voting and advocacy, conservation, life skills and many other areas of interest,
Luttrell said.

The Grange Foundation previously had five specific funding streams – Youth Leadership, Junior Grange, Kelley Farm, Deaf Awareness and Trademark Protection. General donations could also be made to the Foundation.

Grange Foundation Secretary Jimmy Gentry, in a recent video interview about the Foundation, said he encouraged all members to consider donating. Donors can reap tax benefits from their contribution, but are encouraged to consult their tax adviser.

Recently, the late Brother Donald Hill, of Michigan, bequeathed $10,000 to the Grange Foundation, dividing it equally between the Youth Leadership and Junior Grange funds. Members interested in making a gift to the Foundation
through their estate may contact their attorney to learn more.

Contributions may be sent to Grange Foundation, 1616 H. St. NW, Washington, DC 20006. Please indicate in a letter or on the memo line of checks the fund to
which you wish the money to be allocated.