Since established in 2021, more than $47,000 total contributed to groups focused on creating positive change throughout the region
SOUTH GLENS FALLS, N.Y. – The Common Roots Foundation announced more than $20,000 in grants to nine organizations supporting community wellness, environmental stewardship and assisting those in times of need.
Founded in the aftermath of the Common Roots Brewing Company fire, the Common Roots Foundation is a nonprofit focused on sustaining and improving the quality of life throughout northeastern New York through grants and volunteering efforts. Since being established in 2021, the Foundation has contributed more than $47,750.
“When we first established the Common Roots Foundation, our goal was simple: to give back to the tremendous community that supported us through difficult times and continues to step up for their neighbors,” said Bert Weber, President of the Foundation’s Board of Directors. “Between our sustaining and new members, well-attended fundraising events, and our first Legacy Partner, Boralex, the Foundation has been able to support even more programs that are truly making a difference in the lives of the people we want to serve.”
Current awardees include:
- Books Offer Opportunities Kids Succeed—provides 10,000 free books to low-income families;
- Crandall Park Beautification Committee—updating and improving community centerpiece park;
- Glens Falls Youth Center—provides educational, recreational and life-skills programs for disadvantaged youth (grades 5 – 12);
- Habitat for Humanity—building and providing homes, this time for a family from Gabon;
- St Mary’s Food Pantry—part of the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern NY serving 100 families/week;
- Tri-County Literacy—high school GED, English as a new language, and literacy tutor program;
- Up Yonda Farm—outdoor recreation and education center;
- Wait House—a homeless shelter for youth ages 16-24;
- World Awareness Children’s Museum—hands-on cultural educational space for children;
“As a member of the greater South Glens Falls community for more than 20 years, Boralex and our employees are firmly committed to contributing to the vibrancy and economic vitality of this area,” said Erik Bergman, board member, and Director of Operations for Boralex, a renewable energy developer, owner and operator. “Working with the Common Roots Foundation allows us to further our mission to go beyond renewable energy and create sustainable, inclusive and healthy communities in the regions in which we operate.”
Grants range from $1,000 to $2,500 and are awarded for a specific program or project representing the Foundation’s three pillars: community wellness; environmental stewardship; and assisting those in need.
Previous awardees from spring 2022 and 2021 have included: Rise Housing and Support Services, Saratoga Shredders, Family Services of Glens Falls, South Glens Falls United Methodist Church, Pitney Meadows Community Farm, Graphite Mountain Trails, North Country Wild Care, Warren County Soil and Water, Saratoga PLAN, Wilton Wildlife Preserve, Town of Moreau Community Garden and Glens Falls Youth Center.
To learn more about the Foundation, apply for a community grant, or to become a member, please visit www.commonrootsbrewing.com/foundation.
Photo opportunity at our awardee reception will be Wednesday, December 14 at 5 p.m. at the Common Roots Brewing Company. Media interested in attending please contact [email protected].
