The Owatonna Foundation is pleased to announce the recipients of grants recently approved by the Foundation’s’ Grants Committee and Board of Trustees.

A total of $104,028 dollars in grants were awarded as follows: The Owatonna High School Athletic Department was given a grant of $12,700 for a fully automated electronic track timing system to be used during practices and competitions. Little Theatre of Owatonna was awarded $20,000 to be used for a sound system upgrade which will create better sound for all theatre goers, but will particularly enhance the sound for those using hearing aids. St. Mary’s School was awarded $58,500 for a fire rated wall and door system for the public safety of those community members who are using the school for educational and recreational purposes. The Steele County Historical Society was granted $8,315 for roof repairs to the Museum of Professions, the General Store, and the Caboose at the Village of Yesteryear. The Owatonna Business Incubator was awarded $4,528 for a key fob secured entry system for their facility to benefit their occupants.

“Each year we look forward to the time when grant submissions are presented to us. The spring round of grants for 2016 represent a wonderful cross section of our community. The five grants that were awarded will enhance Owatonna and provide the recipients with much needed assistance for them to complete their projects. One of the considerations of the Grants Committee is if the projects that are being presented have financial support from alternative entities other than just the Foundation. This group of grants that were awarded all had support not only from the Owatonna Foundation, but also the support of the public and their own organizations. We are proud to be a part so many worthwhile projects that will benefit our community now and in the future.” said Steve Smith, Chair of the Foundation’s Grants Committee.

Incorporated in 1957, the Foundation has served the Owatonna community for 59 years, providing over $11.5 million dollars in financial support to meet the ever-changing needs of the community. The Foundation makes grants for capital purchases and improvements in the following categories:Community – with projects that have an impact on the quality of life of the people of Owatonna, and the parks and places they use and enjoy. Arts – with projects that support the fine arts, both visual and musical, and encouraging a diverse cultural environment.Recreation – with projects that help improve the recreational opportunities of Owatonna, offering all ages a recreational outlet throughout the year. Education – with scholarships and improvements promoting education and preserving the history of Owatonna. The Foundation providesup to $30,000 annually for both traditional and non-traditional scholarships for youth and adults that are residents of, or work in, Owatonna.

The Foundation encourages 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations in Owatonna and its environs to apply for grants.  The criteria are outlined on the Foundation’s website: www.owatonnafoundation.org. The next grant deadline is September 1, 2016.