Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Central Music Academy
Legal Name (if Different): Central Music Academy, Inc.
Also Known As: CMA
Mailing Address: 3295 Eagle View Lane
City: Lexington
State: KY
Postal Code: 40509
Main Phone: 859-221-2190
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.centralmusicacademy.org
Employer ID Number: 61-1466695
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: March 24, 2025
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: CMA Empowering Voices Program
Project Description:

The Central Music Academy (CMA) is a nonprofit that provides free, high-quality music education to youth in Lexington, Kentucky, and the surrounding areas. Since its founding in 2004, CMA has served over 1,600 students, providing over 55,000 free lessons. These children would otherwise not have access to private lessons due to their high cost, which can be a significant barrier for under-resourced families. CMA bridges this gap by offering free, individualized music education. We teach all instruments and a wide variety of genres, ensuring each student can explore and develop their unique creative voice.

This fall, CMA is launching the Empowering Voices Program to expand access to music education for 25 additional children. The program will provide 30-minute weekly private lessons per student (hour-long sessions available for advanced learners) for all 25 new enrollees. Lessons are tailored to each student’s needs, and we will address CMA’s goals of:

a) improving clients’ access to music training;
b) mentoring students individually to build musical abilities, self-confidence, and goal-setting skills;
c) narrowing the achievement gap between students with financial means and those without the capacity to pay for private lessons;
d) improving graduation and college attendance rates for our students, as compared to local and state averages

To enrich the Empowering Voices Program, we plan to purchase 30 additional method books and étude collections by composers from diverse cultural and musical traditions. Colleges and professional auditions increasingly expect musicians to demonstrate familiarity with varied repertoire, and we want our students to be part of this tradition, learning from works that celebrate America’s rich musical heritage.

We are seeking $10,000 in funding from the Hermanowski Foundation to support the Empowering Voices initiative. The total program cost is $23,500, covering 25 students’ lessons, method books, and performance opportunities throughout the fall and spring semesters.

Total Project Budget: $24,500

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): $12,500 (Virginia Clark Hagan Foundation committed $10,000 and Traditional Bank committed $2500)

Project Duration: 1 year
Geographical Area Served: Lexington, Kentucky
Age Group To Be Served: 8-18 (2nd Grade to seniors in High School)

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Dr.
Contact First Name: Erin
Contact Last Name: Walker Bliss
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 859-221-2190
Contact Email: centralmusicacademy@gmail.com

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Central Music Academy
Legal Name (if Different): Central Music Academy, Inc.
Also Known As: CMA
Mailing Address: 3295 Eagle View Lane
City: Lexington
State: KY
Postal Code: 40509
Main Phone: 859-221-2190
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.centralmusicacademy.org
Employer ID Number: 61-1466695
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: March 24, 2025
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: CMA Empowering Voices Program
Project Description:

The Central Music Academy (CMA) is a nonprofit that provides free, high-quality music education to youth in Lexington, Kentucky, and the surrounding areas. Since its founding in 2004, CMA has served over 1,600 students, providing over 55,000 free lessons. These children would otherwise not have access to private lessons due to their high cost, which can be a significant barrier for under-resourced families. CMA bridges this gap by offering free, individualized music education. We teach all instruments and a wide variety of genres, ensuring each student can explore and develop their unique creative voice.

This fall, CMA is launching the Empowering Voices Program to expand access to music education for 25 additional children. The program will provide 30-minute weekly private lessons per student (hour-long sessions available for advanced learners) for all 25 new enrollees. Lessons are tailored to each student’s needs, and we will address CMA’s goals of:

a) improving clients’ access to music training;
b) mentoring students individually to build musical abilities, self-confidence, and goal-setting skills;
c) narrowing the achievement gap between students with financial means and those without the capacity to pay for private lessons;
d) improving graduation and college attendance rates for our students, as compared to local and state averages

To enrich the Empowering Voices Program, we plan to purchase 30 additional method books and étude collections by composers from diverse cultural and musical traditions. Colleges and professional auditions increasingly expect musicians to demonstrate familiarity with varied repertoire, and we want our students to be part of this tradition, learning from works that celebrate America’s rich musical heritage.

We are seeking $10,000 in funding from the Hermanowski Foundation to support the Empowering Voices initiative. The total program cost is $23,500, covering 25 students’ lessons, method books, and performance opportunities throughout the fall and spring semesters.

Total Project Budget: $24,500

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): $24,500

Project Duration: 1 year
Geographical Area Served: Lexington, Kentucky
Age Group To Be Served: 8-18 (2nd Grade to seniors in High School)

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Dr.
Contact First Name: Erin
Contact Last Name: Walker Bliss
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 859-221-2190
Contact Email: centralmusicacademy@gmail.com

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Thornapple Arts Council of Barry County
Legal Name (if Different): Thornapple Arts Council of Barry County
Also Known As: Thornapple Arts Council
Mailing Address: 231 South Broadway St.
City: Hastings
State: MI
Postal Code: 49058-1835
Main Phone: 2699452002
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://thornapplearts.org/
Employer ID Number: 38-2744924
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/24/2025
Requested Amount: 10000

Project Title: Hastings Community Music School
Project Description:

The Hastings Community Music School offers a comprehensive array of instrumental and vocal music education tailored to a wide range of interests and skill levels. Students can choose from lessons in electric, acoustic, classical, and bass guitar, as well as violin, viola, cello, piano, voice, percussion, drums, ukulele, trombone, trumpet, saxophone, clarinet, flute, recorder, harmonica, and accordion. To meet diverse needs, instruction is available both in person and via virtual platforms like Zoom, ensuring broad accessibility. A unique aspect of the program is its focus on monitoring and communicating student progress through detailed written reports during fall and winter terms, fostering a collaborative environment where instructors, students, and families work together to enhance musical development.

Performance opportunities play a crucial role in the program, with students encouraged to participate in recitals and community events that build confidence and refine their skills. The school advocates for consistent practice, recommending a minimum of four days per week to maintain learning levels while promoting active parental involvement to support each student’s musical journey. These practices contribute not only to technical proficiency but also to cognitive, emotional, and social growth. The program’s impact extends beyond individual students by enriching the cultural fabric of the community, strengthening community ties through public performances, and nurturing a new generation of musicians who may pursue careers in music. Through its commitment to comprehensive musical education, the Hastings Community Music School serves as a cornerstone of personal growth, cultural diversity, and community cohesion.

Total Project Budget: 117070

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Earned Income – $60,000 – Committed Hermanski Foundation – $10,000 – Pending Fundraising & Donations – $27,070 – Committed & Pending Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation – $10,000 – Pending Hansen Family Foundation – $ 10,000 – Pending

Project Duration: 12 Months
Geographical Area Served: West Michigan, Barry County
Age Group To Be Served: School-aged Children from Elementary through High School and some Adults

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Megan
Contact Last Name: Lavell
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 2699452002
Contact Email: exd@thornapplearts.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Rockbridge Area Health Center
Legal Name (if Different): Rockbridge Area Free Clinic
Also Known As: RAHC
Mailing Address: 25 Northridge Lane
City: Lexington
State: VA
Postal Code: 24450
Main Phone: 5404648700
Main Fax: 540-464-1323
Organization Website: www.rockahc.org
Employer ID Number: 54-1642220
Organization Tax Status: 501(C)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: March 24, 2025
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: School-Based Health Centers
Project Description:

Rockbridge Area Health Center’s School-Based Health Centers (SBHCs) at Rockbridge County High School and Maury River Middle School address critical gaps in student health services in our rural community. Since launching in August 2024, our centers have served 376 students through 909 visits, delivering primary medical care and behavioral health support directly where students learn.

In rural Rockbridge County, transportation barriers often prevent students from accessing essential healthcare. Our SBHCs eliminate these barriers by bringing comprehensive care directly to schools, reducing absenteeism and keeping students in class while receiving the care they need. This innovative approach addresses social determinants of health by ensuring all students have equitable access to healthcare regardless of their family’s transportation resources or work constraints.

School administrators have specifically requested increased behavioral health professional support to address previously unmet student needs. Our integrated behavioral health services provide critical early intervention for students struggling with depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges that, if left untreated, can significantly impact academic performance and future success. Depression screenings conducted during primary care visits help identify students who might otherwise suffer silently without appropriate support.

The SBHCs address the primary health needs identified in our Community Health Needs Assessment: chronic disease management, mental health support, and injury/violence prevention. By treating conditions like asthma, diabetes, and ADHD in school, we promote long-term health habits that transfer to home life and well into adulthood.

While we currently operate in two schools, our strategic vision includes expanding to additional schools throughout the Rockbridge area over time. This expansion will allow us to reach more students in our rural community, creating equitable access to healthcare services. By addressing health barriers to education now, we’re creating pathways for improved graduation rates and post-secondary success, preparing students with the physical and mental well-being necessary for lifelong achievement in an increasing number of schools across our region.

Total Project Budget: $760,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Virginia Health Care Foundation – Committed $180,000 for 3 years,

Project Duration:
Geographical Area Served:
Age Group To Be Served:

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.):
Contact First Name:
Contact Last Name:
Contact Title:
Contact Phone:
Contact Email:

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Bradley Cleveland Public Education Foundation (BCPEF)
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 4354
City: Cleveland
State: Tennessee
Postal Code: 37320
Main Phone: 423-476-0034
Main Fax:
Organization Website: www.bcpef.org
Employer ID Number: 20-0585134
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3-24-2025
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Tango Flight: Aviation Education Reaches New Heights
Project Description:

Tango Flight is a transformative educational program at Cleveland High School (CHS), building on past investments in STEM and aviation education since 2016. This innovative program, in partnership with the non-profit Tango Flight Incorporated, serves approximately 140 junior and senior students, addressing key areas of STEM education, workforce development, and community revitalization.

Offered through the Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS), the course immerses students in aerospace, mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing engineering, with a special focus on aviation. The hands-on curriculum allows students to apply classroom knowledge by building an FAA-certified RV-12iS aircraft. Throughout the project, students explore various topics such as aircraft mechanics, avionics, maintenance, inspection, and assembly. The year-long process sharpens critical skills, including problem-solving, mechanical aptitude, communication, collaboration, and creative thinking.

Students gain experience in manufacturing configurations, FAA compliance procedures, workspace organization, and technical documentation. They also learn to adhere to industry standards and technical specifications. Upon completing the program, students earn industry certifications, equipping them to enter the aviation workforce immediately.

The program is supported by mentors from the fields of education, engineering, and manufacturing. Additionally, an articulation agreement with Middle Tennessee University allows Aviation III students to earn three semester hours of college credit in MTSU’s aviation program. Tango Flight, in its partnership with CHS, provides curriculum, logistical support, lab assistance, instructor training, site visits, FAA inspections and certifications, and comprehensive insurance.

With a growing demand for skilled workers in aviation, driven by the retirement of experienced professionals and the increasing complexity of modern aviation technology, the need for workforce readiness is critical. By preparing students for careers in aviation and post-secondary education, Tango Flight contributes to addressing the regional and national workforce shortage, offering solutions for future logistical and aviation-related growth.

Total Project Budget: 130,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): George R. Johnson Family Foundation, BCPEF, Mr. & Mrs. Steve Wright, Cleveland City Schools

Project Duration: One year
Geographical Area Served: Southeast TN, Northwest GA, Northeast AL
Age Group To Be Served: 16-19 year olds

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Magen
Contact Last Name: Ellison
Contact Title: Major Program Faciliator
Contact Phone: 423-476-0034
Contact Email: majorgrants@bcpef.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Hearts of Hope
Legal Name (if Different): n/a
Also Known As: n/a
Mailing Address: 911 General Mouton Ave
City: Lafayette
State: Louisiana
Postal Code: 70501
Main Phone: 337-269-1557
Main Fax: 337-269-1143
Organization Website: theheartsofhope.org
Employer ID Number: 72-1321800
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 03/24/2025
Requested Amount: 10,000

Project Title: Trauma-Focused Therapy for Child Survivors
Project Description:

Hearts of Hope requests $10,000 from the Charles & Joan Hermanowski Family Foundation to provide contract mental health services for children and teens (ages 7-17) through our Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) in Acadiana. This funding will cover 125 therapy sessions for survivors of sexual abuse and severe violence, ensuring access to specialized, trauma-informed care at no cost to their families.

As the only CAC in Acadiana, Hearts of Hope provides forensic interviews, victim advocacy, and mental health services for child survivors. In 2024 alone, 742 children came through our doors, many in urgent need of therapy. Yet financial hardship, provider shortages, and a lack of mental health resources, especially in rural areas, leave many survivors without care. Without this funding, dozens of child survivors may wait months for therapy or never receive it at all, leaving them vulnerable to anxiety, PTSD, and academic struggles.

The Hermanowski Family Foundation’s mission to support children’s health and welfare aligns closely with our work. Trauma therapy helps children build resilience, regain confidence, and heal. It also gives caregivers tools to support recovery at home, fostering stability in the healing process.

With this funding, Hearts of Hope will contract licensed trauma therapists to provide 125 individual counseling sessions at $80 each. Each child will receive six to ten sessions based on need. Our family advocates will work closely with the therapists as part of a multidisciplinary team, ensuring that every child receives well-rounded, trauma-informed care tailored to their recovery. This grant will also strengthen our referral networks and increase awareness of trauma-informed care in Acadiana.

With the Hermanowski Foundation’s support, 50% of this project’s funding will be secured, ensuring therapy remains available to children who need it most. This investment will provide life-changing care, prevent service disruptions, and create lasting change for Acadiana’s vulnerable children.

Total Project Budget: $20,000

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Sam J. Frankino Foundation- $7,500 / Private Donors- $2,500

Project Duration: January 1, 2026- December 31, 2026 (12 months)
Geographical Area Served: Acadiana, a region of South Louisiana that includes both rural and urban communities, spans the following parishes: Acadia, Evangeline, Iberia, Lafayette, St. Landry, St. Martin, St. Mary, and Vermilion.
Age Group To Be Served: 7-17 years old

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Rachel
Contact Last Name: Gremillion
Contact Title: Data Manager
Contact Phone: 337-269-1557
Contact Email: Rachel.gremillion@theheartsofhope.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Students Run Philly Style
Legal Name (if Different): N.A
Also Known As: N.A
Mailing Address: The Sterling Commerce Center 1819 John F. Kennedy Boulevard Suite #480
City: Philadelphia
State: PA
Postal Code: 19103
Main Phone: 267-930-3546
Main Fax: N.A
Organization Website: www.studentsrunphilly.org
Employer ID Number: 81-4223573
Organization Tax Status: 501c3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: March 24 2025
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: Students Run Philly Style
Project Description:

Students Run Philly Style (SRPS) transforms lives through mentorship over miles of long-distance running and achievement. SRPS pairs Philadelphia youth, in grades 6-12, with adult, volunteer Mentors to train for a tremendous challenge – running a long-distance race. Through running and mentorship, youth build confidence, positive coping skills and meaningful community connection. As an official partner of the School District of Philadelphia, SRPS is an active member of its Mentoring Community of Practice which works to increase trauma-informed mentorship within city schools. SRPS is free, including race entries, shoes and transportation, to and from events, to all enrolled. In 2024, SRPS served 1352 students and 407 volunteer Mentors in 57 school-based teams across Philadelphia.

SRPS youth and Mentors train 3 times weekly, for 9 months, to complete a long distance race. Within SRPS’ School Year Season, youth and Mentors train September – May to run the Blue Cross Broad Street 10-Miler. In SRPS’ Marathon Season youth and Mentors train from March – November, to run the half, or full, Philadelphia Marathon (13.1, 26.2 miles respectively). Youth attend seasonal celebrations and appreciation events. SRPS matches 400+ adult volunteers with youth annually and trains volunteers via its Mentor Curriculum to ensure best practices.

SRPS partners with Temple University to evaluate programming annually. Recent evaluations demonstrate that from pre to postseason, 94% maintained, or increased, perceptions of family social support, and more than 60% of students increased their use of emotional and instrumental support to address stressful situations.

SRPS annually collects feedback from youth. One student recently shared, “After running you trust yourself enough to know you did a really hard thing. I could probably just do most things as long as I set my mind to it because I just proved it to myself right now.”

Total Project Budget: In 2025, SRPS operating budget is $1,556,558

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): SRPS has diversified funding sources that comprise its general operating funds. SRPS receives approximately $250,000 annual funding from Spring Point Partners, LLC. SRPS is also an official charity of Philadelphia’s Blue Cross Broad Street 10-mile Run and the Philadelphia Marathon events. SRPS secures individual support from its large community including via charity runners who commit to raising at least $500 for SRPS while training for a goal long-distance race. SRPS is also a co-owner of the annual Philadelphia Distance Run and its official charity. SRPS is an official partner of Brooks Running as part of their Future Run initiative, which aims to empower the next generation of runners. Brooks provides free shoes and uniform shirts to all SRPS participants. SRPS anticipates requesting funds from the following foundations for 2026: Philadelphia Foundation, $50,000 Foundation for Health Equity, $30,000 Independence Foundation, $25,000 Allen Hilles Fund, $10,000 Rite Aid Healthy Futures, $10,000 The Scholler Foundation, $5,000 Henrietta Tower Wurts Fund, $5000 Anne & Phillip III Glatfleter Foundation, $5,000 Howell Lockhart Seiple Trust, $4000

Project Duration: 1/1/2026-12/31/2026
Geographical Area Served: Philadelphia, PA
Age Group To Be Served: SRPS serves youth in grades 6-12.

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Amy
Contact Last Name: Lackpour
Contact Title: Associate Director of Institutioanl Giving
Contact Phone: 267-930-3546
Contact Email: alackpour@studentsrunphilly.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: Thornapple Arts Council of Barry County
Legal Name (if Different): Thornapple Arts Council of Barry County
Also Known As: Thornapple Arts Council
Mailing Address: 231 South Broadway St.
City: Hastings
State: MI
Postal Code: 49058-1835
Main Phone: 2699452002
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://thornapplearts.org/
Employer ID Number: 38-2744924
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/24/2025
Requested Amount: 10000

Project Title: Hastings Community Music School
Project Description:

The Hastings Community Music School offers a comprehensive array of instrumental and vocal music education tailored to a wide range of interests and skill levels. Students can choose from lessons in electric, acoustic, classical, and bass guitar, as well as violin, viola, cello, piano, voice, percussion, drums, ukulele, trombone, trumpet, saxophone, clarinet, flute, recorder, harmonica, and accordion. To meet diverse needs, instruction is available both in person and via virtual platforms like Zoom, ensuring broad accessibility. A unique aspect of the program is its focus on monitoring and communicating student progress through detailed written reports during fall and winter terms, fostering a collaborative environment where instructors, students, and families work together to enhance musical development.

Performance opportunities play a crucial role in the program, with students encouraged to participate in recitals and community events that build confidence and refine their skills. The school advocates for consistent practice, recommending a minimum of four days per week to maintain learning levels while promoting active parental involvement to support each student’s musical journey. These practices contribute not only to technical proficiency but also to cognitive, emotional, and social growth. The program’s impact extends beyond individual students by enriching the cultural fabric of the community, strengthening community ties through public performances, and nurturing a new generation of musicians who may pursue careers in music. Through its commitment to comprehensive musical education, the Hastings Community Music School serves as a cornerstone of personal growth, cultural diversity, and community cohesion.

Total Project Budget: 117070

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Earned Income – $60,000 – Committed Hermanski Foundation – $10,000 – Pending Fundraising & Donations – $27,070 – Committed & Pending Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation – $10,000 – Pending Hansen Family Foundation – $ 10,000 – Pending

Project Duration: 12 Months
Geographical Area Served: West Michigan, Barry County
Age Group To Be Served: School-aged Children from Elementary through High School and some Adults

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Megan
Contact Last Name: Lavell
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 2699452002
Contact Email: exd@thornapplearts.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: ReadyKids
Legal Name (if Different): ReadyKids, Inc
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 1000 E. High Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902
City: Charlottesville
State: Virginia
Postal Code: 22902
Main Phone: 4342964118
Main Fax: 434-295-2638
Organization Website: readykidscville.org
Employer ID Number: 54-0546000
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/24/2025
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: ReadyKids Counseling Program
Project Description:

The ReadyKids Counseling Program provides free mental health support to children and teens facing trauma, abuse, and/or family crises. These evidence-based, trauma-informed services are designed to help build resilience and emotional well-being. In FY24, this program impacted 326 youths, and 168 caregivers.

FY24 Counseling Program outcomes were:
-95.5% of youth and caregivers demonstrated appropriate social/emotional functioning as evidenced by percentage of youth who demonstrated improved functioning at discharge
-95.5% of youth and caregivers demonstrated appropriate social/emotional functioning as evidenced by percentage of youth who exhibited a reduction in traumatic stress at discharge
-94.5% of parents demonstrated appropriate parenting knowledge and beliefs based on their child’s individual needs as evidenced by percentage of caregivers who demonstrated an increase in knowledge about their child’s needs and strengths at discharge
-89.1% of parents related to their children in positive and nurturing ways as evidenced by percentage of youth who have established connections with a responsible adult or other community support at discharge

Trauma counseling is available for children 2-18 who have experienced trauma, including abuse, neglect, or domestic violence exposure. We employ evidence-based treatments such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Play Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). Our program offers family support and education to non-offending caregivers, including family counseling and a trauma-informed parenting group, to improve parent-child interactions and emotional regulation. There is no limit to how long participants can receive these services.

Short-term crisis counseling is available for teens 12-18 facing emotional distress, family conflict, or crisis situations. Teens can visit their counselors at our office, or participate in school-based counseling to ensure accessibility, minimize disruptions, and reduce barriers. Teens can also access our 24-7 hotline to connect with on-call counselors. These services are provided for an average of 3 months.

Total Project Budget: 1,177,455.33

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): The Counseling Program has traditionally been funded through Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Victims Fund and The Victims Services Grant Program (VSGP) with additional community support from the City of Charlottesville, County of Albemarle, and County of Louisa. Each year for the last three years, the state of Virginia announced it would be reducing previously-reliable VSGP grant award amounts due to lack of available funding, resulting in a loss of $160,000 for our Counseling Program this fiscal year alone. Since 2021, the award has decreased due to lack of available funds from $535,000 to $200,000. The Counseling Program also benefited from $55,000 of American Rescue Plan Act funds over the past two years. These funds are no longer eligible for renewal, and present a gap that we are actively fundraising to overcome. The Counseling Program receives critical financial support from private contributions and foundations, including The Manning Family Foundation, The Batten Family Foundation, The Weyerhaeuser Family Foundation, The Farkas Family Foundation, Anne & Gene Worrell Foundation, and the Virginia Healthcare Foundation. All available resources will be pursued to continue this project beyond the grant period, including new and potential sources such as the George J. and Effie L. Seay Foundation, and a request for Congressional Directed Spending. Past support from the Charles and Joan Hermanowski Foundation has been critical to these efforts and sustaining the ReadyKids Counseling Program.

Project Duration: Ongoing
Geographical Area Served: Charlottesville and the five surrounding counties: Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, and Nelson
Age Group To Be Served: Children and teens, 2-18 years old

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Amy
Contact Last Name: Troyer
Contact Title: Grants and Relationships Manager
Contact Phone: 4342964118
Contact Email: atroyer@readykidscville.org

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

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Organization Name: ReadyKids
Legal Name (if Different): ReadyKids, Inc
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 1000 E. High Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902
City: Charlottesville
State: Virginia
Postal Code: 22902
Main Phone: 4342964118
Main Fax: 434-295-2638
Organization Website: readykidscville.org
Employer ID Number: 54-0546000
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)3

Proposal Information

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Today’s Date: 3/24/2025
Requested Amount: $10,000

Project Title: ReadyKids Counseling Program
Project Description:

The ReadyKids Counseling Program provides free mental health support to children and teens facing trauma, abuse, and/or family crises. These evidence-based, trauma-informed services are designed to help build resilience and emotional well-being. In FY24, this program impacted 326 youths, and 168 caregivers.

FY24 Counseling Program outcomes were:
-95.5% of youth and caregivers demonstrated appropriate social/emotional functioning as evidenced by percentage of youth who demonstrated improved functioning at discharge
-95.5% of youth and caregivers demonstrated appropriate social/emotional functioning as evidenced by percentage of youth who exhibited a reduction in traumatic stress at discharge
-94.5% of parents demonstrated appropriate parenting knowledge and beliefs based on their child’s individual needs as evidenced by percentage of caregivers who demonstrated an increase in knowledge about their child’s needs and strengths at discharge
-89.1% of parents related to their children in positive and nurturing ways as evidenced by percentage of youth who have established connections with a responsible adult or other community support at discharge

Trauma counseling is available for children 2-18 who have experienced trauma, including abuse, neglect, or domestic violence exposure. We employ evidence-based treatments such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Play Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). Our program offers family support and education to non-offending caregivers, including family counseling and a trauma-informed parenting group, to improve parent-child interactions and emotional regulation. There is no limit to how long participants can receive these services.

Short-term crisis counseling is available for teens 12-18 facing emotional distress, family conflict, or crisis situations. Teens can visit their counselors at our office, or participate in school-based counseling to ensure accessibility, minimize disruptions, and reduce barriers. Teens can also access our 24-7 hotline to connect with on-call counselors. These services are provided for an average of 3 months.

Total Project Budget: 1,177,455.33

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): The Counseling Program has traditionally been funded through Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Victims Fund and The Victims Services Grant Program (VSGP) with additional community support from the City of Charlottesville, County of Albemarle, and County of Louisa. Each year for the last three years, the state of Virginia announced it would be reducing previously-reliable VSGP grant award amounts due to lack of available funding, resulting in a loss of $160,000 for our Counseling Program this fiscal year alone. Since 2021, the award has decreased due to lack of available funds from $535,000 to $200,000. The Counseling Program also benefited from $55,000 of American Rescue Plan Act funds over the past two years. These funds are no longer eligible for renewal, and present a gap that we are actively fundraising to overcome. The Counseling Program receives critical financial support from private contributions and foundations, including The Manning Family Foundation, The Batten Family Foundation, The Weyerhaeuser Family Foundation, The Farkas Family Foundation, Anne & Gene Worrell Foundation, and the Virginia Healthcare Foundation. All available resources will be pursued to continue this project beyond the grant period, including new and potential sources such as the George J. and Effie L. Seay Foundation, and a request for Congressional Directed Spending. Past support from the Charles and Joan Hermanowski Foundation has been critical to these efforts and sustaining the ReadyKids Counseling Program.

Project Duration: Ongoing
Geographical Area Served: Charlottesville and the five surrounding counties: Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, and Nelson
Age Group To Be Served: Children and teens, 2-18 years old

Contact Information

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Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Ms.
Contact First Name: Amy
Contact Last Name: Troyer
Contact Title: Grants and Relationships Manager
Contact Phone: 4342964118
Contact Email: atroyer@readykidscville.org