Rice County Community Foundation Awards over $200,000 in Grant Funding for Local Initiatives

The Rice County Community Foundation (RCCF) is pleased to announce the recipients of the Community Fund Grant program, which is dedicated to supporting community projects that enhance the quality of life for residents in Rice County's various communities.

Multi-Community Grant:

Communities encompassing Alden, Bushton, Chase, Geneseo, Little River, and Sterling received $3,300 in support for the "Rabbits in Rice County" project by Rice County Economic Development. Inspired by the success of 'Mice on Main Street,' this creative endeavor will introduce a unique scavenger hunt experience featuring bronze rabbit sculptures and an accompanying children’s book. Each community will have the opportunity to name and place their own bunny, thus enhancing the tourism experience.

Chase Community Grants:

The Chase Fire Department was awarded $5,596.80 for turnout gear storage, ensuring efficient response times during emergencies. An additional $5,400 went to the City of Chase for a downtown revitalization project, which will convert a neglected lot on Main Street into a welcoming park with a cement slab, covered patio, and picnic tables.

Geneseo Community Grants:

In Geneseo, the City Building will receive $3,400 to update its flooring, improving the area's functionality and aesthetics. The Geneseo Senior Center was granted $2,000 for new flooring in the kitchen and dining area, and the Geneseo Public Library received $900 for energy-efficient LED light fixtures to enhance efficiency and reduce energy consumption.

Little River Community Grants:

The Little River Development Group was awarded $2,100 for a shade structure over the splash pad, providing sun protection for observers and enhancing recreational amenities. Additionally, $6,800 went to the City of Little River for directional signage, aimed at improving wayfinding for visitors and enhancing the community's welcoming experience. The Little River Fire Department received $1,900 for essential flashlights, enhancing safety and effectiveness during emergency responses. The Little River First United Methodist Church was granted $2,500 to acquire a freezer and refrigerator for the Little River Food Pantry, expanding their capacity to serve the community.

Lyons Community Grants:

The Rice County Historical Society received $6,000 for improving the environment for collections by constructing two vestibules in the former Lyons City Hall building. The Rice County United Way was granted $1,500 for website development, aiming to streamline the support process for the annual United Way campaign. Additionally, USD 405 – Lyons received $10,000 for an industrial arts CNC Machine, providing high school students with valuable skills for local manufacturing jobs. Lyons Middle School was awarded $1,000 for the RealityU program, an interactive financial literacy simulation, and $25,000 went to the City of Lyons for creating safer school zones and pedestrian crossings. The Lyons FFA received $2,500 for meal packaging, and Friends of Animals Rice County was granted $5,000 for a community dog park drinking fountain. The Rice County Child Advocacy Center received $40,000 to establish a child-friendly facility for child abuse cases, while Northern Rice County Goodfellows received $10,500 to provide Christmas food and personal hygiene items for Christmas boxes. Lastly, the Air Force Junior ROTC program at LHS received $2,000 for uniforms and training materials.

Raymond Community Grants:

The City of Raymond was awarded $1,225 for water works building updates, focusing on security and safety. Raymond Community Development received an additional $1,225 for a freezer refrigerator to enhance their community center's functionality.

Sterling Community Grants:

Lil’ Cub Childcare received $20,000 for preschool expansion, empowering kindergarten readiness. Brighthouse, Inc was granted $1,500 for abuse prevention and education for Sterling youth. USD 376 – Sterling received $16,000 for a sunshade over the SGS playground, enhancing safety and comfort. Light Up the Dark was awarded $2,600 to replace the roof on the lighthouse cottage, and Sterling High School Music was granted $2,108.97 for a new piano. Sterling College received $4,500 for lecture hall technology enhancements, while the Sterling Fire Department was granted $5,000 for replacing fire pagers. The Fellowship of Christian Athletes received $5,000 for cultivating spiritual leaders, and the Sterling College Band was awarded $990 for a Winter Concert. Finally, Studio 96 received $6,000 for new blinds, promoting access to art classes and diverse artist exhibitions.

These grants underscore RCCF's commitment to supporting impactful projects across Rice County. We extend our congratulations to all recipients and commend them for their dedication to enhancing our communities. RCCF is proud to be a part of this shared vision for a better and brighter Rice County.

For more information about RCCF and its grant programs, please visit www.ricecountycf.org.