The Leo Livingston Fund continues to boost non-profits in Taylor with grants that change the lives of citizens and enhance the quality of life in the Taylor community. The fund is administered by the Community Foundation of the Brazos Valley which is located in Bryan, and serves the Brazos Valley community and beyond.
“Charity begins at home, and Leo and Doris Livingston established this endowment as a forever gift to express their love for their beloved Taylor community," Patricia Gerling, foundation president and CEO of the said. “Funding from this charitable fund is contributing to many quality of life needs in the Taylor community.”
This year, more than $37,000 in grants was distributed to 11 local nonprofits.
"We are making history as we surpass another landmark occasion," Gerling said. "The Foundation distributed its first Livingston grant in the amount of $2,500 to the United Seniors of Taylor back in 2009. Since that year, we have continued that tradition."
Since 2009, the Foundation has distributed 118 grants representing over $347,000 in grant funding to 32 different nonprofits in Taylor.
"Almost $350,000 in grants to local causes that change the lives of citizens and enhance the quality of life where you live, you work and you play," Gerling said.
Five Taylor business leaders and civic leaders represent the interests of the community review the annual grant applications and present recommendations regarding the distribution. Committee members include Mark Schroeder, attorney and President of the Taylor Educational Enrichment Foundation; Stella Buzan, co-owner of the 74 Man Store; Ian Davis, co-owner of the Texas Beer Company; Leslie Hill, former Taylor Area Businesswomen Woman of the Year; and Jason Hennington, area editor of the Taylor Press.
Gerling said the grant committee has a vested interest and serve on behalf of the community and reviewing the grant applications each year.
On May 10, members of each organization received their grants at a celebration at the Taylor Press conference room.
"This is the first time since COVID that we have this face-to-face celebration for you to be able to receive your grant checks," Gerling said. "It's great to see your smiling faces. I know there is a lot of joy the grant committee takes in having you here so they can congratulate you."
