June 09, 2015
Last night, hundreds of Impact Austin members, Community Partners and fans of the collective giving process that started in 2003 gathered together! Members had an opportunity before the voting to talk with members of the finalist nonprofits and ask any questions that still remained.
Then, precisely on time, everyone filed into the main room to hear the presentations of the finalists. Board President, Rebekah Bonde, opened the program and she and Executive Director, Donna Benson-Chan recognized and honored leaders of Impact Austin. Founder, Rebecca Powers, honored Dina Mavridis, long time leader of Girls Giving Grants (g3) and the first standing ovation of the night was given. She recognized her incoming replacement, Ami Kane with great thanks. g3 President Melissa Porter introduced the incoming President, Maya Kothare Arora, as well.
Impact Austin members were treated to an inspiring video that caught everyone up on how last year's grant recipients are doing and what they have accomplished, and then it was time to hear about our newest additions to the ever growing list of Grant Recipients.
Tears and laughter were a part of the experience, as usual, and the presenters did an outstanding job of representing their nonprofits and the programs that had been submitted.
Our congratulations go out to our first Catalyst Grant Winner: Texas Advocacy Project: Technology Upgrade.
Our Focus Area Committee Winners are:
Culture: VSA Texas: Body Shift
Education: Council on At-Risk Youth:Youth Violence Prevention
Environment: Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center: Nature Bus Program
Family: Catholic Charities of Central Texas: Family Based Immigration Legal Services
Health and Wellness: Drive a Senior: Drive a Senior Van Program
The check presentation ceremony is coming up on Tuesday, June 23rd at 10:00 am at City Hall, so watch events on this website for all of the details!
Bravo, Impact Austin. A job exceedingly well done!
