Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Akron Children’s Museum
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 216 S. Main Street
City: Akron
State: OH
Postal Code: 44308
Main Phone: 330-396-6103
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.akronkids.org
Employer ID Number: 46-3118462
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/27/25
Requested Amount: 5000

Project Title: Museums for All
Project Description:

An initiative of the Institute of Museum and Library Services and administered by the Association of Children’s Museums, this nationally recognized program encourages those who may have an interest, but not the financial means to visit destinations like ACM, to take advantage of discounted admission prices for low-income families. Any guest who presents their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) card upon arrival will be given an admission price of $1 to $3. Individuals, businesses, and foundation support for Museums for All ensures ACM remains accessible to those in greatest need. We work directly with area youth-serving organizations, including childcare centers and public schools, to ensure financial barriers do not prevent any child from participating.

While ACM hosts visitors from locations around the country, we primarily serve families living in Akron/Summit County, where the percentage of children aged 0-17 living below the poverty level is 18.5 percent. For Akron, where ACM is located, 36.1 percent of children live in poverty, according to the 2023 Akron Community Foundation Community Needs Assessment. The 2018 Akron Community Foundation Community Needs Assessment reported that 15 percent of those surveyed believed education and youth development were one of the biggest problems facing Greater Akron. Children in poverty often experience fewer rich learning environments, less parental nurturing, and elevated levels of toxic stress that can adversely affect their development. By reducing or eliminating barriers through our outreach efforts, ACM can help bridge the opportunity gap for vulnerable children who live in poverty and have fewer opportunities to engage in STEAM learning activities than their peers.

Total Project Budget: 32,500

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Mary S. and David C. Corbin Foundation-$10,000 pending San Frankino Foundation-$5,000 planned Charles and Mabel Ritchie Foundation-$500 committed Lloyd L. & Louise K. Smith Foundation-$500 committed LR Moffitt & LW Moffitt Foundation-$500 committed Demetros Charitable Trust-$2,500 committed Dewing Foundation-$5,000 planned Dreyfus Foundation-$5,000 planned

Project Duration: Ongoing, operates during each calendar year
Geographical Area Served: Northeast Ohio, Summit County
Age Group To Be Served: 2-12

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Traci
Contact Last Name: Buckner
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 330-396-6103
Contact Email: Traci@akronkids.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Hope House, Inc.
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: PO Box 577
City: Lee’s Summit
State: Missouri
Postal Code: 64063
Main Phone: 816-461-4188
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://www.hopehouse.net
Employer ID Number: 43-1265685
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 03/27/2025
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: Hope House’s Children’s Services Program
Project Description:

According to the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV), 15.5 million children are exposed to domestic violence (DV) every year. Violent homes are traumatic; children who experience and/or witness abuse are at risk for post-traumatic stress and other mental health issues. In fact, exposure to DV is associated with perpetrating such violence or becoming an adult victim of violence. Hope House’s comprehensive Children’s Services Program offers effective and necessary services to the youngest and most vulnerable victims of DV by addressing the unique issues faced by children who have experienced and/or witnessed DV.

The goal of the Children’s Services Program is to improve children’s overall level of functioning and ability to be safe. The program’s trained Therapists and Child & Family Advocates work collaboratively to provide supportive, comprehensive, trauma informed, and responsive advocacy, case management, and therapeutic services for children who have experienced and/or witnessed DV. These services provide transformative care through empowering children to assert themselves; teaching aggressive children structure and strategies to handle stressful situations; and allowing survivors to reconnect with their children in joyful and nurturing ways.

Hope House’s Children’s Services Program allows children to laugh and play without worrying about their safety while at the same time begin to heal from the effects of DV. Offering supportive and comprehensive services allows children the opportunity to safely express their feelings and heal from the trauma they have experienced. In doing so, children and youth will be less likely to suffer the long-term effects of experiencing and/or witnessing DV, ultimately breaking the intergenerational cycle of DV.

If awarded, grant funds will support direct and indirect program expenses such as program personnel and supplies to facilitate the delivery of services (such as toys, sensory materials, books, and age-appropriate therapy items).

Total Project Budget: $612,485.13

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) – Committed, Jackson County Community Mental Health Fund – Committed, Jackson County Community Services Fund – Committed, Oppenstein Brothers Foundation – Committed and Pending, Private Donations – Committed

Project Duration: 10/01/2025-09/30/2026
Geographical Area Served: Eastern Jackson County, Missouri
Age Group To Be Served: 0-18

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Brandi
Contact Last Name: Bair
Contact Title: Director of Grants and Compliance
Contact Phone: 816-257-9349
Contact Email: bbair@hopehouse.net

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Cancer for College
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 2247 San Diego Ave # 130
City: San Diego
State: CA
Postal Code: 92110
Main Phone: 7605995096
Main Fax:
Organization Website: cancerforcollege.org
Employer ID Number: 93-1144756
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3) nonprofit

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: March 27, 2025
Requested Amount: 10000

Project Title: Education Support for Florida Cancer Survivors
Project Description:

Cancer for College (CFC) seeks funding to expand our scholarship and support programs for young cancer survivors in Florida. Since 1993, CFC has awarded millions in scholarships, empowering survivors to pursue higher education despite the financial burdens of cancer treatment. With thousands of young people diagnosed annually in Florida, the need for financial assistance remains critical.

Medical expenses often leave families unable to afford college, putting higher education out of reach for many cancer survivors. CFC provides need-based scholarships to alleviate this burden, ensuring that young survivors have the opportunity to achieve their academic and career aspirations. In addition to financial aid, CFC offers mentorship, networking, and professional development to help recipients successfully transition into their careers, in which they often end up giving back through their chosen careers and community service efforts.

With funding support, CFC will expand outreach efforts, increase scholarship awards, and strengthen partnerships with Florida universities, hospitals, and community organizations to better serve eligible students. Investment in this program changes the lives of individual students and strengthens Florida’s workforce by empowering resilient, ambitious young leaders.

Your support will help ensure that no cancer survivor in Florida is forced to sacrifice their education due to financial hardship. Together, we can provide hope, opportunity, and a brighter future for young survivors pursuing their educational dreams.

Total Project Budget: $1,992,500

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Dear Jack Foundation 8/2/24 $75,000 granted Lila H Borgstrom Foundation 10/1/24 $25,000 granted Rolf Benirschke Legacy Foundation 10/3/24 $10,000 granted Kershaw Foundation 9/26/24 $10,000 granted Patrick O’Leary Foundation 1/16/25 $10,000 granted Mangurian Jr. Foundation, Harry T. 09/15/24 $25,000 pending Spieth Family Foundation, Jordan 10/31/24 $100,000 pending Olsen Private Foundation, Kristine 11/15/24 $15,000 pending Fortune Family Foundation, Brooks and Joan 12/01/24 $25,000 pending

Project Duration: 1 year
Geographical Area Served: Florida
Age Group To Be Served: 18-25

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.):
Contact First Name: Tabithia
Contact Last Name: Engle
Contact Title: Director of Donor Impact
Contact Phone: 8034150249
Contact Email: tabithia@cancerforcollege.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Beverly’s PGH
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 11065 Parker Drive
City: North Huntingdon
State: PA
Postal Code: 15642
Main Phone: 7245905106
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://www.beverlyspgh.org/
Employer ID Number: 45-4248006
Organization Tax Status: 501c3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/27/2025
Requested Amount: $7500

Project Title: Using Celebration to Strengthen Children and Families in Southwestern PA
Project Description:

“No one had ever thrown me a celebration before. I didn’t believe that I was worth celebrating.”

Every child deserves a meaningful birthday celebration. Our initiative was inspired by an 11-year-old girl named Beverly, who shared her story in 2012. Beverly had never experienced a birthday party or even enjoyed a slice of birthday cake, highlighting a significant gap in celebration for children in need.

The Beverly’s Birthdays division operates through three primary initiatives: Group Birthday Parties, Birthday Cheer Boxes, and Classroom Cheer. Our group birthday celebrations occur monthly or quarterly at various facilities, incorporating all elements of a traditional birthday party—food, games, cupcakes, birthday crowns, and the joy of friends. Every child celebrating a birthday receives a Birthday Cheer Box filled with hand-selected gifts valued at a minimum of $85, tailored to the child’s interests and developmental needs. By providing these gifts to caregivers, we empower them to share in their child’s special moment.

We support children experiencing poverty, homelessness, and involvement with the child welfare system, many of whom face high levels of trauma or mental health needs. We affirm children’s self-worth, support families’ basic needs, and foster positive social and emotional experiences through birthday celebrations.

Many families facing financial hardships struggle to celebrate milestones, contributing to a lack of recognition for the children. Our celebrations promote positivity, reduce stress, and cultivate resilience, leading to stronger social connections and improved cognitive performance. Celebration activates areas of the brain related to personality expression, decision-making, and social behavior, releasing neurotransmitters that enhance motivation and mood.

Our approach addresses children’s basic material and psychological needs, promoting resilience, recognizing their growth, and enhancing self-esteem. We create safe spaces for children to let their guard down, experience joy, and engage in play—all vital for their overall development.

Total Project Budget: $1,055,450

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Contract Funding with Allegheny County DHS and Washington County CYS ($200,000); Grant Funding (Sylvia and Martin Snow Charitable Foundation, Grable Foundation, PNC Grow Up Great, Jefferson Regional Foundation, Birmingham Foundation, Margaret Patton Foundation, Robert and Mary Weisbrod Foundation, Norwin Christian Church, J.W. Couch Foundation, additional grant funding); Direct Public Support, Event Revenue, In-Kind Support

Project Duration: 1/1/2026 – 12/31/2026
Geographical Area Served: Southwestern PA
Age Group To Be Served: 0-18

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Ashley
Contact Last Name: Bojorquez
Contact Title: Grants and Special Projects Manager
Contact Phone: 724-590-5106
Contact Email: abojorquez@beverlyspgh.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Beverly’s PGH
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 11065 Parker Drive
City: North Huntingdon
State: PA
Postal Code: 15642
Main Phone: 7245905106
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://www.beverlyspgh.org/
Employer ID Number: 45-4248006
Organization Tax Status: 501c3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/27/2025
Requested Amount: $7500

Project Title: Using Celebration to Strengthen Children and Families in Southwestern PA
Project Description:

“No one had ever thrown me a celebration before. I didn’t believe that I was worth celebrating.”

Every child deserves a meaningful birthday celebration. Our initiative was inspired by an 11-year-old girl named Beverly, who shared her story in 2012. Beverly had never experienced a birthday party or even enjoyed a slice of birthday cake, highlighting a significant gap in celebration for children in need.

The Beverly’s Birthdays division operates through three primary initiatives: Group Birthday Parties, Birthday Cheer Boxes, and Classroom Cheer. Our group birthday celebrations occur monthly or quarterly at various facilities, incorporating all elements of a traditional birthday party—food, games, cupcakes, birthday crowns, and the joy of friends. Every child celebrating a birthday receives a Birthday Cheer Box filled with hand-selected gifts valued at a minimum of $85, tailored to the child’s interests and developmental needs. By providing these gifts to caregivers, we empower them to share in their child’s special moment.

We support children experiencing poverty, homelessness, and involvement with the child welfare system, many of whom face high levels of trauma or mental health needs. We affirm children’s self-worth, support families’ basic needs, and foster positive social and emotional experiences through birthday celebrations.

Many families facing financial hardships struggle to celebrate milestones, contributing to a lack of recognition for the children. Our celebrations promote positivity, reduce stress, and cultivate resilience, leading to stronger social connections and improved cognitive performance. Celebration activates areas of the brain related to personality expression, decision-making, and social behavior, releasing neurotransmitters that enhance motivation and mood.

Our approach addresses children’s basic material and psychological needs, promoting resilience, recognizing their growth, and enhancing self-esteem. We create safe spaces for children to let their guard down, experience joy, and engage in play—all vital for their overall development.

Total Project Budget: $1,055,450

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Contract Funding with Allegheny County DHS and Washington County CYS ($200,000); Grant Funding (Sylvia and Martin Snow Charitable Foundation, Grable Foundation, PNC Grow Up Great, Jefferson Regional Foundation, Birmingham Foundation, Margaret Patton Foundation, Robert and Mary Weisbrod Foundation, Norwin Christian Church, J.W. Couch Foundation, additional grant funding); Direct Public Support, Event Revenue, In-Kind Support

Project Duration: 1/1/2026 – 12/31/2026
Geographical Area Served: Southwestern PA
Age Group To Be Served: 0-18

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Ashley
Contact Last Name: Bojorquez
Contact Title: Grants and Special Projects Manager
Contact Phone: 724-590-5106
Contact Email: abojorquez@beverlyspgh.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Arts for Learning Connecticut
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 1 Evergreen Ave, Suite 33
City: Hamden
State: CT
Postal Code: 06518
Main Phone: 203-230-8101
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.aflct.org
Employer ID Number: 06-1009470
Organization Tax Status: 501c3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/27/2025
Requested Amount: 10000

Project Title: Higher Order Thinking Schools: creative, inspired, arts learning in Hamden, CT
Project Description:

Arts for Learning Connecticut (AFLCT) seeks support from the Hermanowski Family Foundation to implement our flagship Higher Order Thinking (HOT) Schools program at two Hamden schools—Church Street Elementary and ACES Wintergreen Interdistrict Magnet Middle School—from January to June 2026. HOT Schools is a whole-school, arts-integrated teaching and learning program that improves student engagement, enriches school culture, and expands teacher practice—particularly in underserved communities.

The program uses three key strategies: (1) school-wide performances that connect students to professional artists and spark collective creativity; (2) hands-on arts workshops, co-led by Teaching Artists and classroom teachers, that bring creative learning into core subjects; and (3) extended residencies, where artists co-teach with teachers to embed artforms like dance, storytelling, and visual art into English Language Arts and other subjects.

Between January and June 2026, HOT Schools will reach 750 students (grades K–8) across these two schools. Each student will participate in at least two performances, one in-class arts workshop, and many will take part in multi-day arts-integrated residencies. All teachers will engage in professional development to support creative, culturally relevant instruction. This represents hundreds of hours of arts education programming.

Both Church Street and Wintergreen serve high percentages of BIPOC and low-income students (90% and 55%, respectively), many of whom face academic and emotional challenges in school. By engaging students through the arts—and by helping teachers reach students in new ways—HOT Schools provides joyful, hands-on learning that supports creative expression, connection, and personal accomplishment. In fact, recent evaluation shows that 83% of educators observed Social and Emotional Learning growth, and 91% of students reported positive engagement and creative learning.

With your support, we will bring the power of arts learning to Hamden students who need it most—building stronger classrooms, schools, and futures. Thank you for your consideration!

Total Project Budget: 90000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): CT Office of the Arts ($15,000, committed); Wintergreen Magnet Schools Grant ($15,000, committed); Carol Bailey and Laurie Desmet ($10,000, committed); National Endowment for the Arts ($15,000, potential); Cornelia T Bailey Foundation ($15,000, potential); Frank Loomis Palmer Fund ($10,000, potential)

Project Duration: 1/1/2026 – 6/30/2026
Geographical Area Served: Hamden, CT
Age Group To Be Served: 5-13

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mr
Contact First Name: John-Michael
Contact Last Name: Parker
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 203-623-5068
Contact Email: jmparker@aflct.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: 📯 Zachary, your BTC was successfully received. https://graph.org/Message–17856-03-25?hs=eb299abb096ed97308cda970b676bdd2& 📯
Legal Name (if Different): e3gpok
Also Known As: 5evcxw
Mailing Address: aurorabnkwy@gmailbrt.com
City: zv0ke5
State: udjbea
Postal Code: 07259
Main Phone: 351274833397
Main Fax: weclnh
Organization Website: af5utq
Employer ID Number: 351274833397
Organization Tax Status: 2u7c76

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: fjm8xg
Requested Amount: hkxr06

Project Title: vjlagd
Project Description:

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Total Project Budget: b1e4t9

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): 75t220

Project Duration: neznj2
Geographical Area Served: r8kzoy
Age Group To Be Served: 35xtle

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): o4jldv
Contact First Name: l7ztor
Contact Last Name: 245m4w
Contact Title: n0zu7s
Contact Phone: 351274833397
Contact Email: aurorabnkwy@gmailbrt.com

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: FOODiversity
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 207 Kenway Look
City: Mooresville
State: N.C.
Postal Code: 28117
Main Phone: 7049046768
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://foodiversity.org/
Employer ID Number: 86-2607349
Organization Tax Status: 501c3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: March 26, 2025
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: Food Delivery Program
Project Description:

Many families are experiencing the double burden of food insecurity and medically-necessary dietary restrictions. One in four Americans have a food allergy or intolerance, and 13.5% of U.S. households are food insecure (NHIS, 2021; Tuck et al., 2019; USDA, 2024). As a result, FOODiversity’s service population face significant challenges in meeting their dietary needs, like this parent: “Because of my son’s allergies, [food pantries] may only have one or two items that he can eat…”.
The Food Delivery Program is a direct-to-household, Food Is Medicine program. FOODiversity provides a monthly credit to spend at an online nutrition marketplace (Attane Health). Customers can shop for groceries that fit their personal preferences, health conditions, and cultural needs. Within days, their order is delivered directly to their doorstep. Client choice, monthly newsletters, and recipes provide dignified, hands-on learning.
While addressing immediate food needs, the Food Delivery Program also provides opportunities for long-term impacts like self-efficacy, treatment expansion, and improved health. One customer explained the long-term effects of her enrollment, “I am truly grateful to receive this service as it takes away so much stress, worry, and concern about having enough safe foods to eat each month and I feel like I can actually think about other things.” Other common themes from customer feedback include improved diet and variety of foods eaten, reduced financial stress, anxiety, and general stress, and the significance of feeling supported and valued.
Food choice equates to dignity and a path to good health, especially for those who previously received pre-packaged bags of allergen-containing food from their food sources. The Hermanowski Family Foundation’s grant provides an opportunity for families to receive resources and develop essential health skills, reduce food insecurity, and promote life-long health improvements.

Total Project Budget: 60,277

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Committed: Hoptown "Sip it Forward": $3882; East Meets West Fundraiser: (estimated) $ 3271; Individual Donors: $18,360; Potential: Individual donors, corporate and civic grants, monthly fundraisers

Project Duration: January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026
Geographical Area Served: Continental U.S.
Age Group To Be Served: Families with children under 18

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.):
Contact First Name: Wendy
Contact Last Name: Pake
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 7049046768
Contact Email: wendy@foodiversity.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Jeremiah Program
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 3104 Fiechtner Drive S
City: Fargo
State: North Dakota
Postal Code: 58103
Main Phone: (701) 552-5553
Main Fax: na
Organization Website: https://jeremiahprogram.org/
Employer ID Number: 41-1801834
Organization Tax Status: 501 (C) 3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/26/2025
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Supporting Education Pathways for Single Mothers and their children
Project Description:

Jeremiah Program (JP) serves single mothers and their children in Fargo-Moorhead through programming that supports moms’ matriculation, persistence, and post-secondary graduation by addressing whole-family needs with access to childcare, affordable housing and pathways to launch a successful career. Our mission is to disrupt the cycle of poverty for single mothers and their children, two generations at a time. Our primary goal is to promote long-term child and family wellbeing by leveraging coaching to deliver services. Our signature program begins with a 12-week introductory Empowerment and Leadership course where moms begin working with a Family Coach. Once completed, we then continue individualized coaching support, helping moms navigate resources and the full breadth of services we provide. At this time, moms explore enrolling their eligible children into our onsite child development center.
Our program provides moms with college access and career support, starting with our foundational Empowerment and Leadership course. Integrated into our holistic programming, our coaching framework connects single mother families to vital resources, promotes long-term planning, and evolves alongside them over multiple years. Key components include early childhood education, enrichment, safe and affordable housing, and community building. Our onsite child development center (CDC) offers exceptional early learning for children from six weeks to kindergarten and subsidizes summer enrichment for children of all ages. For families in need, our 20-unit residence, co-located with the CDC, ensures rent and utilities do not exceed 30% of income. Our coaches also support off-campus families in securing safe, affordable housing.

Total Project Budget: $2,488,800

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): We generate a portion of our budget through earned income, including rent, childcare subsidies, interest earnings, and government food service reimbursements. Our center tuition/fees align with the maximum rate for childcare assistance reimbursements, ensuring the only out-of-pocket costs for JP families eligible for assistance (almost all families) are nominal. The remainder of our revenue comes from individual, corporate, foundation, and government contributions. Our pending commitments currently total $333,898 with $203,898 already received in 2025.

Project Duration: One year beginning on 1/1/2025
Geographical Area Served: Fargo-Moorhead, North Dakota
Age Group To Be Served: We serve single moms aged 18 and older who have at least one child under five and are committed to completing a college degree. Our Child Development Center provides care and early education for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, while enrichment opportunities are available for children of all ages.

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.):
Contact First Name: Andrea
Contact Last Name: Williams
Contact Title: Director of Development
Contact Phone: (701) 552-5553
Contact Email: awilliams@jeremiahprogram.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Jefferson Educational Society
Legal Name (if Different): Jefferson Educational Society of Erie
Also Known As: JES
Mailing Address: 3207 State Street
City: Erie
State: PA
Postal Code: 16508
Main Phone: 814-459-8000
Main Fax: 814-459-8006
Organization Website: jeserie.org
Employer ID Number:
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 03/26/2025
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Erie Next Gen Leaders: Empowering Youth to Lead and Succeed
Project Description:

The Jefferson Educational Society (JES) is a nonpartisan think tank dedicated to civic enlightenment and community progress through research, discussion, and education. Since 2008, JES has provided high-quality programs that engage Erie residents in meaningful dialogue on critical issues.

JES seeks $10,000 to support Erie Next Gen Leaders, a civic education and leadership program for youth ages 14-18 in Erie, Pennsylvania. Designed to equip young people with leadership skills and a deeper understanding of civic life, the program empowers participants to become engaged citizens and future community leaders.
Held on Saturdays from June through August, Erie Next Gen Leaders offers interactive sessions featuring elected officials, nonprofit leaders, and industry professionals. Topics include civic leadership, systemic injustice, government structure, financial literacy, career pathways, and voter education. Participants must complete at least eight of ten sessions and submit a reflective essay on civic engagement to graduate. The program culminates in a graduation ceremony, where students present on issues affecting Erie. Graduates receive a stipend, a certificate, and priority acceptance into JES’s Jefferson Civic Leadership Academy upon reaching age eligibility.

Funding from the Hermanowski Foundation will cover program expenses, including marketing, speaker and participant stipends, educational materials, and program evaluation. These resources ensure equitable access to civic education, particularly for students from underrepresented backgrounds.

Erie Next Gen Leaders doesn’t just educate – it empowers. By equipping young people with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead, this program builds a pipeline of engaged citizens ready to shape Erie’s future. Rooted in JES’s mission of civic enlightenment and lifelong learning, it also embodies the Hermanowski Foundation’s commitment to transforming lives – giving young adults the tools to succeed and reach their full potential. The impact of this program extends beyond a classroom, fostering a new generation who will drive meaningful change in their community.

Total Project Budget: 20,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Hermanowski Foundation would directly support programmatic needs, while the part-time coordinator position is covered by JES personnel budget.

Project Duration: April – August 2026
Geographical Area Served: Erie County, Pennsylvania
Age Group To Be Served: 14-18

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms
Contact First Name: Chelsea
Contact Last Name: Oliver
Contact Title: Director of Marketing and Community Engagement
Contact Phone: 814-459-8000
Contact Email: oliver@jeserie.org