The Columbia Association (CA) and the Community Foundation of Howard County (CFHoCo) are proud to announce a new partnership to support the Howard County community through a significant grant initiative. This collaboration underscores the commitment of both organizations to promoting social welfare and addressing the needs of residents.
Under the terms of the agreement, CA will provide CFHoCo with a grant of $125,000 to be distributed during the Community Foundation’s open Community Grants Program this year. The 2025 Community Grants application window will open on October 20. The deadline to apply will be November 14. The CA’s commitment will be combined with additional funds from CFHoCo to form an available grant pool of more than $200,000. All Howard County nonprofits are invited to apply.
To ensure transparency and accountability, CFHoCo will form a committee of volunteers from across Howard County, including a representative from CA, to review applications and oversee the distribution of funds. Additionally, CFHoCo will provide detailed reports to CA, including a list of grant recipients, project summaries, and financial accounting.
“CA is pleased to announce the renewal of our partnership with the Community Foundation of Howard County,” said Shawn MacInnes, President and CEO of Columbia Association. “CFHoCo’s commitment to building a better future for Columbia’s residents is a mission Columbia Association is proud to support. Community grants are instrumental in providing essential support to organizations dedicated to directly improving the lives of our residents. We’re always stronger as a community when we work together, and Columbia Association is excited to see the positive impact this partnership will have in the year ahead.”
Melissa Curtin, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Howard County, added, “We are thrilled to renew this collaborative partnership with Columbia Association, as our two organizations have a long history of working together to provide resources for nonprofits. These grants will support local nonprofits to continue making a meaningful difference in our community.”