(Photo provided) The Village of Matamoras will be receiving $10,900 from the Community Impact Grants for funding for vital repairs to the Matamoras Community Pool, ensuring its safe and efficient operation for public use.

Marietta Community Foundation has announced that $127,025 in grant funding has been awarded during the first grant cycle of 2025, directly supporting nonprofit organizations working to create lasting, positive change throughout Washington County, Ohio.

These grants reflect a collective commitment–made possible by the Foundation’s generous fundholders–to strengthen the community. From addressing immediate, practical needs through the Simple Solution Grants to investing in long-term community development through the Community Impact Grants, this funding cycle underscores the power of local philanthropy in action.

Community Impact Grants

Community Impact Grants, offered just twice a year–in the spring and fall–are made possible through the Foundation’s Community Impact Fund and the generous support of fundholders. These grants are designed to fuel change across Washington County. Here are the nonprofits that received support during the spring cycle:

*American Red Cross of the Ohio River Valley: $15,000

Funding to purchase an emergency response vehicle, enhancing disaster response capabilities in Washington County Ohio

*Fort Frye Local Schools: $11,000

Funding to construct a greenhouse at the middle/high school, providing healthy food options and hands-on learning opportunities aligned with the district’s wellness plan.

*Village of Matamoras: $10,900

Funding for vital repairs to the Matamoras Community Pool, ensuring its safe and efficient operation for public use.

*Mid-Ohio Valley Players: $10,627

Funding to upgrade the theater’s fire exit and sound system for greater accessibility and performance quality.

*Habitat for Humanity of the Mid-Ohio Valley: $10,000

Funding to help build home #118 in Beverly for a family actively participating in the building process through ‘sweat equity.’

*Lower Muskingum Historical Society: $5,000

Funding for Phase 2 of expanding the modern exhibit building at the Oliver Tucker Museum to accommodate larger historical displays.

*Make It Go Disc Golf: $5,000

Funding to enhance and standardize three disc golf courses across Washington County and establish a youth tournament division.

*Right Path for Washington County: $5,000

Funding for a backpack giveaway in partnership with Gospel Mission Food Pantry, providing school supplies to local students in need.

*Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio: $5,000

Funding to support the Helping Hands Program, offering shelter to Washington County families with children receiving hospital care.

*Vets 4 Vets: $5,000

Funding to ensure local veterans have access to essential medical equipment and mobility aids not covered by VA benefits.

*Village of Beverly: $5,000

Funding to support B&W GRO’s downtown revitalization project, including welcome sign restoration and park enhancements.

*Hervida 4-H Camp: $3,500

Funding to install an ADA-compliant pool chair lift to ensure accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments.

*Ohio State University Foundation: $3,428

Funding to complete the construction and support maintenance of the Juvenile Center Teaching Garden, offering personal development opportunities to youth in the juvenile system.

*Consumer Credit Counseling Services of the Mid-Ohio Valley: $3,000

Funding to support the Financial Literacy Program for low-income Washington County clients seeking financial guidance.

*Community Action Program of Washington-Morgan Counties: $1,200

Funding to provide pet food, veterinary care, and grooming services for the pets of seniors in the Senior Nutrition Program or Meals on Wheels.

Simple Solutions Grants

Offered on a quarterly basis, the Foundation’s Simple Solution Grants are intended to address clear, immediate needs within the community through a streamlined process. After reviewing submitted requests, the Foundation shares them with fundholders, who then choose the organizations they wish to support.

Pool Manager Diane Chapman with the Village of Matamoras Community Pool, one of the Foundation’s grantees, recently shared a reflection regarding the Simple Solutions Grants.

“For over two decades, I’ve watched the Matamoras pool be a lifeline for our kids–giving them joy, structure, and safety every summer. This grant is more than just repairs; it’s hope,” she said. “It means we can keep the doors open for the next generation, and I couldn’t be more grateful to see this beloved place coming back to life.”

The following organizations received funding in the first quarter:

Belpre Performing Arts Boosters, The Castle Museum, Civil War Round Table of the Mid-Ohio Valley, Consumer Credit Counseling Services of the Mid-Ohio Valley, Ely Chapman Education Foundation, Fort Frye Local Schools, Girl Scouts of Black Diamond Council, GoPacks, LifeCare Alliance, Marietta City Schools, Marietta Main Street, National Investors Hall of Fame, Ohio ACLU, Pinehurst Christian Church, River Cities Runners & Walkers Club, Salem Baseball Association, Washington State College of Ohio Foundation, and Women’s Peacepower Foundation.

Marietta Community Foundation is dedicated to encouraging collaboration, adaptability, and meaningful responses to the evolving needs of Washington County, Ohio. To learn more about the Foundation’s grant opportunities or to support these impactful efforts, visit www.mcfohio.org/grants or make a gift at www.mcfohio.org/donate.