Apex Clean Energy and Big Bluestem Wind have awarded community grants to various organizations in Henry County. These grants support initiatives in economic development, environmental sustainability, education, and health. Recipients include Freedom House, Grow Ministries, Cambridge Community and Youth Center, First Baptist Church of Orion, and Galva FFA.
Freedom House’s mission is to provide compassionate, confidential, free services to victims of domestic and sexual violence, as well as to provide awareness and prevention education to the community. “The grant will fund Youth Counseling and Therapy,” said Chloe Lund, Chief Operating Officer. “Henry County residents comprise the single largest proportion of our client census, at about 45%, and this will help our goal of returning our clients to safe, healthy lives.”
Grow Ministries was founded in 2005 with a mission to help women in crisis, and also provides space for a complete resource center that gives furniture, household items, and clothing to anyone in need. “Our food pantry is currently serving approximately 400 families per month, said Board Member Diane Solis. “The grant will be used to maintain our food pantry and continue to deliver support for those in need.”
The Cambridge Community and Youth Center opened in 2015 to provide a safe place where respect and relationships are encouraged. The center is a gathering space for families, organizations, individuals, and other groups and provides services such as an after-school program that offers homework help, tutoring, and life skills training. It serves dozens of students every week, many of whom face challenges at home and school. “The grant will be used to improve the lighting inside and outside of the center with more energy-efficient lighting as we continue to find ways to provide an accessible safe space for the community and those in need,” said Director Doreen Vincent.
The First Baptist Church of Orion has been a place of worship and gathering for the community since it was built in 1867. It has historic significance in the community and still serves as a gathering place multiple times a week. “This grant will allow us to fix the handicap ramp door and allow those in our community who are less mobile to join us for services,” said Pastor Jeremiah Bullock.
The Galva FFA Chapter has created a StoryWalk featuring 20 reading stations to enhance elementary students’ reading skills and promote agriculture in the environment. “We plan to create laminated storyboards and books to support this goal throughout the year,” said Agriculture Teacher and FFA Advisor Trisha Main. “We hope the StoryWalk program will provide a unique and engaging way to promote literacy, creativity, and outdoor exploration.”
The goal of the Big Bluestem Wind Community Grant Program is to fund projects and programs that build healthy communities. Grants are awarded quarterly. If you are interested in applying for future rounds of funding, please visit https://www.bigbluestemwind.com/grant.
