Charlottesville, Virginia – December 17, 2015 – Today, the Charlottesville Area Community Foundation announces $429,500 in grants to 84 local nonprofits through the Bama Works Fund of Dave Matthews Band. In 2015, the Bama Works Fund has awarded $852,000 to 145 organizations in total. Established in 1998, the Bama Works Fund has been committed to making grants in Charlottesville and the seven surrounding counties for close to two decades, and has had a significant impact on creating vibrant communities that support youth, vulnerable populations, the natural environment and arts and cultural assets. Since 1998, the Fund has made more than 1,000 grants, totaling more than $16 million.
The Dave Matthews Band’s philanthropy through the Bama Works Fund has not only touched a broad range of nonprofits of all sizes, it has also been essential in making foundational gifts to transformative community projects over the years, including gifts to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Virginia’s James River Club, Crozet Library, and Local Food Hub.
Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Virginia James Pierce stated, “Bama Works has been there for the James River Boys & Girls Club every step of the way. Since opening in 2014, the demand for after school and summer services in the tri-county area more than doubled our initial estimates, and there is no way we could keep up with demand without their vital support.”
Local Food Hub Executive Director Kristen Suokko affirmed,” The Dave Matthews Band deeply understands the unique needs and opportunities in this community, and we are grateful for their partnership. With their support, our local food system is more robust than ever before: small farms are thriving, and more people have access to fresh, nutritious local food. The environment, public health, and our local economy all benefit as a result.”
Anne Scott President of the Charlottesville Area Community Foundation stated that “The Dave Matthews Band’s generosity has made a positive impact for our community that is simply unparalleled.”
A complete list of the Fall 2015 grant recipients can be found on the Community Foundation website www.cacfonline.org/apply.
Twice each year, the Bama Works Fund of Dave Matthews Band of CACF awards gifts through a competitive grant cycle. Applicants seeking a grant for the next Spring decision must apply no later than February 1, 2016. Additional information on the grant process can be found on the Apply for Grants page of the Community Foundation website.
