2 nonprofits get $200,000, no strings
Colin McDonald, Express-News
My San Antonio News
Oct 21, 2008
By definition, the nonprofit Green Spaces Alliance of South Texas and Communities in Schools of San Antonio are always strapped for cash.
They pride themselves on being frugal.
On Monday night at the Pearl Brewery, both groups received $200,000 in unrestricted grants from Bank of America as part of the 2008 Neighborhood Excellence Initiative Awards.
Directors at both organizations say the flexibility to spend it as they see fit is a luxury. They both have received larger grants, but those come with very specific directions.
“We don't really care where it goes,” said Kenny Wilson, the bank's regional president for the San Antonio area. “Just keep growing and doing what you do.”
Both groups will receive $100,000 a year for the next two years. “It's a huge vote of confidence,” said India Chumney, director of resource development for Communities in Schools, which will be able to fund its new effort to help refugees adapt to San Antonio schools without using funds from existing programs.
The money makes Green Space's ambitious goal of preserving 125,000 acres — and starting 50 community gardens in the next five — a bit more attainable. It was the group's third attempt to get the grant, and winning it is a sign that group is being noticed and appreciated, director Julie Koppenheffer said.
The bank also recognized five local volunteers and five high school students.
The awards are in their fifth year. Bank of America has made more than $2.2 million in grants in San Antonio.