Granting over $1 million to charities this spring, Niagara Community Foundation (NCF) is making significant investments in our community, touching all sectors across Niagara. Through NCF’s Environmental Grants, David S. Howes Fund Grants, Mini Grants and Summer Camp Grants, 54 charities in Niagara received a boost to their programming and services, across all sectors.
One notable grant was given to St. Catharines World Rowing. Through the David S. Howes Fund, $29,597 was awarded to the charity to support an accessibility project that will ensure athletes coming to Niagara for the 2024 World Rowing Championships in August, will have no restrictions based on their abilities to compete, and the on-course experience will be safe for all. This permanent enhancement to the facilities will have an impact on this summer’s games and to all future athletes to come.
“When PARA athletes approach the victory ceremony at the Grandstand, they must dock and make their way to the podium to receive their medals,” says Bill Schenck, Chairman of the St. Catharines World Rowing. “This project will make the dock accessible allowing for an easy transition from the shells to the dock that includes an 18-inch rise from the dock to the Grandstand. The project design has created a seamless pathway that allows PARA rowers to access the podium and be given their medals in the same way that all others winning rowers will experience.”
“Projects like the PARA Accessibility and Water Safety Project fully align with the original intent of the David S. Howes Fund,” says Bryan Rose, Executive Director of NCF. “Fundholders come to us with a desire to make an impact in Niagara and it is our privilege to turn that intent into impact, in noticeable, sustainable and effective ways.”
A full listing of all the grants can be found starting on page 3:
• 11 Environmental Grants = $200,025
• 18 David S. Howes Fund Grants =$741,874
• 17 Mini Spring Grants = $24,684
• 20 Summer Camp Grants = $38,295 (298 kids supported)
• TOTAL= $1,004,878
Established in 2000, Niagara Community Foundation has raised over $82.3 million and has granted in excess of $27.5 million to charities working in the arts, heritage, environment, social services, health, education and community development sectors. NCF connects donor to causes and communities to resources, turning intent into impact.
About the 2024 World Rowing Championships
From August 18-25, 2024, St. Catharines is set to welcome the world for the 2024 World Rowing Senior, Under 23 and Under 19 Championships at the historic Royal Canadian Henley Rowing Course. Known for its legacy in hosting major competitions, including two previous World Rowing Championships, the Henley Rowing Course will bring together 2,500 athletes from over 80 countries in what is the biggest and most important World Rowing event of the season.
