The Nugget Newspaper - News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

The Roundhouse Foundation, based in Sisters, recognizes that everyone in our community and beyond has been affected by the COVID-19 crisis. The foundation is working to encourage sustainability of non-profit partners during and after this unprecedented time.

The Foundation has extended their grant reporting timeline for organizations who are currently using grant funds from the organization by 60 days.

The Roundhouse Foundation’s grant application is still live – with applications due on April 1 and October 1. The Trustees encourage organizations to apply as planned. While the Roundhouse Foundation remains aligned with the mission and policies set forth by our bylaws, the Trustees wish to focus the 2020 grant cycle to support the sustainability of current and potential partners. In addition, they welcome proposals which would support programming for those most affected by COVID-19, for instance through:

•?Child care services during school closures.

•?Mitigation of social isolation and mental health support.

•?Educational opportunities for K-12 students.

•?Internet access for those learning/working from home.

•?Housing and utility support/food security.

“We are attempting to support our partners as much as possible, as well as be aware of our own organizational sustainability during this difficult time,” says Erin Borla, Trustee and Executive Director. “Our goal is to serve our community during and after this crisis.”

In an additional effort to support The Roundhouse Foundation partners, all past grant recipients which meet the following criteria: organization still aligns with the Foundation mission; previous funds used as described; and report submitted on time; are eligible to submit a new limited support grant application by May 15, 2020.

The needs for the limited support grant must fall under one of the below categories:

•?Sustainability of the organization due to loss of income because of COVID-19.

•?Support programming for vulnerable populations including low-income families, high need communities, seniors, etc.

The Roundhouse Foundation’s immediate efforts in Sisters Country include contributions to the Family Access Network and Furry Friends, as well as monthly contributions to the Sisters Kiwanis Food Bank for the next five months. The Foundation will also make a contribution to the Oregon Community Foundation Oregon Recovery Fund to help address the needs of Oregon’s most vulnerable.

Foundation staff and their families are of the utmost importance to the organization. They are all working remotely at this time and are happy to connect electronically or via phone to help answer any questions that may arise.

The Roundhouse Foundation supports creative solutions to unique challenges associated with rural culture and landscapes. The focus areas of the Foundation’s grants include arts and culture, conservation and sustainable agriculture, education, and social services.

For more information visit Roundhouse Foundation.