One of the Shelby Foundation grants goes to Shelby Middle School to help fund the 8th Grade Washington, D.C. trip, offering students an opportunity for educational travel and real-world learning experiences.  Credit: Shelby Foundation

SHELBY — The Shelby Foundation Board of Directors recently approved $82,761 in Cycle 1 grant funding, supporting seven local organizations and initiatives that serve Shelby and the surrounding community.

These grants reflect the Foundation’s continued commitment to connecting generosity with community need and investing in programs that strengthen education, health, and quality of life for residents.

As part of this grant cycle, the following organizations received funding: 

● Community Improvement Corporation of Shelby – This funding supports the Shelby Economic Development Program, continuing to advance of local business growth and long term community investment. 

● Most Pure Heart of Mary – Funded through the Linda Curry Honorary Fund, this grant will support security camera updates to enhance safety and security.

● National Inventors Hall of Fame – This grant supports the Camp Invention STEM Summer Education Program, providing hands-on learning opportunities that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and innovation among students.

● OhioHealth Foundation/Shelby Hospital– Funded through the Shelby Memorial Hospital Foundation Fund will support the replacement of a treadmill used in outpatient therapy services, ensuring continued access to essential rehabilitation equipment for local patients.

 ● Shelby Middle School – This grant will help fund the 8th Grade Washington, D.C. trip, offering students an opportunity for educational travel and real-world learning experiences. 

● St. Mary’s School – Funded through the Linda Curry Honorary Fund, this grant will support the installation of playground safety locks, helping to create a safer environment for students during outdoor activities.

● Third Street Clinic – This grant supports the Shelby Pharmacy Project, expanding access to affordable medications and improving healthcare accessibility for residents. 

The Shelby Foundation awards grants through a competitive process, with funding decisions made by its Board of Directors based on community impact, organizational capacity, and alignment with local needs. 
 
In addition to Cycle 1 program grants, the Board also approved donor-advised distributions supporting organizations chosen by fundholders: 

● Paul D. Champion Fund – Supporting the purchase of new Shelby Whippet Band uniforms. 

● Dennis and Karen Bowman Fund – Supporting the Butler Clearfork Adult Center Meals on Wheels Program. 

● Dennis and Karen Bowman Fund– Supporting the Richland County Animal Shelter for general operations.
 
These grants highlight the role donor-advised funds play in allowing individuals and families to support causes they care about while making a meaningful impact on the community. 
 
Community members interested in learning more about The Shelby Foundation can reach out directly or visit https://www.theshelbyfoundation.org/ .

About The Shelby Foundation 

The Shelby Foundation connects generosity with community needs. Through strategic grants, scholarships, and investments, the Foundation strengthens the lives of residents in Shelby and the surrounding area.