Foundation grants $35,000 to SOAR

The Oregon Community Foundation presented SOAR (Sisters Organization for Activities and Recreation) a check for $35,000 on Tuesday, June 18. The grant is dedicated to construction of SOAR's Community Activities Center.

With $901,300 in construction assets raised through grants, donations and fundraisers, SOAR can now begin construction.

Linda Moore, Chair of the Central Oregon Leadership Council and board member of the OCF, said the board had no difficulty in making the decision to aid in SOAR's construction project.

"Every time the board asked the opinion of a local OCF council member or community resident about this grant, we'd hear, 'Oh, do it. They do wonderful things there (at SOAR)'," she said.

The Oregon Community Foundation, established in 1973, manages charitable funds donated by individuals, families and businesses to enhance and support the quality of life in their communities. The foundation's endowment has more than 800 funds with assets of $400 million.

Grants are made through an application process that involves local citizens in the review and evaluation of requests. Private entities interested in establishing a fund may contact the Bend office at 382-1170. (Applications are made through the Portland office.)

Groundbreaking for Phase One of the two-part construction project will be held in July. Phase One will include a Taekwondo and dance studio, activity and class rooms, offices and storage space.