GAR Foundation

March is National Reading Month! Did you know? ?? Reading for just 20 minutes a day exposes students to 1.8 million words per year! ?? Children who read 20+ minutes daily score higher than 90% of their peers on standardized tests. ???? Reading reduces stress by 68%, improves focus and strengthens brain function! SEI celebrates the power of books to inspire and educate. This month let’s commit to more reading!

GRANTEE SPOTLIGHT ?? Magical Theatre Company is igniting imaginations and inspiring young audiences through the power of live theater. As Northeast Ohio’s only professional resident theater focused exclusively on young people and families, Magical Theatre Company brings stories to life with creativity, heart, and artistic excellence. Through engaging performances and educational programs, they make the magic of theater accessible to children of all backgrounds, fostering a lifelong love of the arts. Learn more about their impact ?? www.magicaltheatre.org ??: Shane Wynn

Have you completed your ArtsForward application? We are eager to hear about your ideas for Summit County's arts and culture sector that support the Akron/Summit Cultural Plan's ten key priorities! If you have yet to submit or finalize your application, the deadline is Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at 11:59pm. If you are interested in applying, but unsure if you can, please see the information below on who can apply for an ArtsForward grant. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3Xfks3w

Operated by ArtsNow, ArtsForward is fueling Akron’s creative community. In 2024, the program awarded over $400,000 to 29 artists and organizations—bringing its two-year total to more than $870,000! With a focus on collaboration, inclusivity, and accessibility, ArtsForward strengthens Akron’s cultural fabric, enhances neighborhood vibrancy, celebrates Akron’s diverse identities, and drives economic opportunities. This holistic approach firmly establishes arts and culture as central to Akron’s growth and resilience. Learn more about the difference ArtsForward is making in our 2024 Impact Report ?? https://lnkd.in/dnY5EPGu (Also, this is a reminder that ArtsForward applications are open until April 1st!)

So great to convene with our Northeast Ohio partners in philanthropy this week! Thanks to Peg's Foundation for graciously hosting us! Daniel Hampu

Did you miss our latest Resources for Nonprofits newsletter? In addition to our resource spotlights, leadership and health coach Becky Wolfe provides a thoughtful breakdown of what burnout is, what it isn't, and strategic ways to overcome it in your career. Read Becky's full article about unpacking burnout and view our resource spotlights ?? https://lnkd.in/etTRk5Ks

Youth Success Summit (YSS) is on a mission to provide support for high-quality after-school and summer programs that help Akron’s youth thrive. With a focus on arts & enrichment, college & career readiness, and sports & wellness, YSS is empowering youth to build the skills needed for success in life. By connecting young people with caring adults and meaningful activities, they are creating opportunities for growth while aligning with the City of Akron's strategic priorities around youth violence. Check out our 2024 Impact Report to see how YSS is bridging the gap between education and creativity, offering transformative experiences that inspire personal growth, critical thinking, and self expression ?? https://lnkd.in/gFWTHH_v Rachel Tecca Ron Kent Jr. Tyler Newkirk

Our Locker Room experience was nothing short of amazing! Our student leaders worked hard to develop pitches tailored to their schools and demographics, tackling key issues like attendance, behavior, and cultural awareness. They then presented their plans to the entire room, receiving valuable real-time feedback. Huge thanks to all the coaches and leaders for their unwavering support. Also we can never forget our partners who help make all this happen: GAR Foundation, Huntington National Bank, United Way, SeibertKeck Insurance Partners, Akron Public Schools, and The University of Akron. Stay tuned—there’s more to come!

For women aiming to advance their careers, expand their impact, and drive meaningful change, serving on a board offers invaluable opportunities. Christine Mayer, President of the GAR Foundation, attributes her board leadership experience to accelerating her professional growth and enhancing her leadership skills. Through the WNLI Board Leadership Initiative, you can connect with businesses and organizations actively seeking diverse female leaders for board positions. Hear from Christine on how board service can be a transformative step in your career: https://lnkd.in/g_aWwaMd #WomenInLeadership #BoardService #CareerGrowth #LeadershipDevelopment #WNLI #GreaterAkron #ProfessionalWomen

?? Connect. Convene. Collaborate SPARK Akron, the entrepreneurship strategy of the Elevate Greater Akron regional economic development initiative, is hosting a mixer at Bounce Innovation Hub on Wednesday, March 26 at 5:30 PM. For entrepreneurs looking to scale their business, this event offers an opportunity to foster relationships that will build community and drive success! Register for the event for FREE here: https://lnkd.in/gPk4Xk_G