Avista to provide $475,500 to community non-profit agencies Grants will be directed to 25 organizations in four states
SPOKANE, Wash. – Oct. 15, 2021: Avista has announced its third quarter grants totaling $475,500 to support economic and community vitality in Washington, Idaho, Oregon and Alaska.
“Despite the prolonged effects of the pandemic we are encouraged to see so much resiliency in the communities across our service territory,” said Dennis Vermillion, president and CEO of Avista. “We’re pleased to stand alongside these organizations and make investments that help neighborhoods and communities thrive.”
One of the grant recipients, Spruce Root, Inc., assists people in Southeast Alaska through services that promote economic, social and cultural growth.
“This funding will help us deliver six workshops to approximately 72 entrepreneurs,” said Ashley Snookes, Program Manager for Spruce Root. “Participants will receive technical assistance and one-on-one business coaching services from the Spruce Root staff. Additionally, the grant will also support the communities relying on these businesses for goods and services in our geographically isolated region.”
A grant given to the Hillyard Merchants Association will also help advance economic vitality in Northeast Spokane.
“The Avista grant will be used to activate a new marketing and communication campaign to increase awareness of northeast businesses,” said David Guthrie, Executive Director of the Northeast Public Development Authority. “As we generate support in the greater community for revitalization, the area will attract new investment, leading to business growth and increased employment opportunities for neighborhood residents.”
Additional donations across Avista’s service territory include the Bonner County Economic Development Corporation in Idaho, and “Rebuilding Together Rogue Valley” in Oregon, which provides funds to cover the cost of home repairs or modifications that enable seniors to stay in their home.
Organizations receiving grants are:
| 1. | Innovation Foundation | WA/ID | $150,000 ($50,000/year) |
| 2. | United Human Services of SE Alaska | Alaska | $125,000 ($31,250/year) |
| 3. | Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners (SNAP) | Washington | $69,000 |
| 4. | Bonner County Economic Development | Idaho | $15,000 ($5,000/year) |
| 5. | St. Vincent De Paul of North Idaho | Idaho | $15,000 |
| 6. | Renewable Juneau | Alaska | $11,000 |
| 7. | CDAIDE | Idaho | $10,000 |
| 8. | Northeast Public Development Authority | Washington | $10,000 |
| 9. | Spokane Parks Foundation | Washington | $10,000 |
| 10, | Spruce Root Inc. | Alaska | $7,500 |
| 11. | Pioneer Human Services | Washington | $7,500 |
| 12. | Options for Helping Homeless Residents of Ashland | Oregon | $5,000 |
| 13. | Jess Roskelley Foundation | Washington | $5,000 |
| 14. | LC Valley Pickleball Club | Washington | $5,000 |
| 15. | Second Chance Ranch | Washington | $5,000 |
| 16. | Transitions | Washington | $5,000 |
| 17. | YMCA of the Inland Northwest | Washington | $3,000 |
| 18. | Animal Rescue Foundation | Idaho | $2,500 |
| 19. | City of Rogue River | Oregon | $2,500 |
| 20. | Walking Tall Southern Oregon | Oregon | $2,500 |
| 21. | Rebuilding Together Rogue Valley | Oregon | $2,500 |
| 22. | Spokanimal C A R E | Washington | $2,500 |
| 23. | LC Valley Youth Resource Center | WA/ID | $2,500 |
| 24. | WA-ID Volunteer Center | WA/ID | $2,000 |
| 25. | One Heart | Washington | $500 |
Since its establishment in 2002, the Avista Foundation has made grants totaling over $12 million. The foundation focuses its giving in the areas of vulnerable and limited income populations, education, and economic and cultural vitality. It is a separate, non-profit organization established by Avista Corp., and does not receive funding from Avista Utilities or AEL&P customers through rates.
About Avista Utilities
Avista Utilities is involved in the production, transmission and distribution of energy. We provide energy services and electricity to 400,000 customers and natural gas to 367,000 customers in a service territory that covers 30,000 square miles in eastern Washington, northern Idaho and parts of southern and eastern Oregon, with a population of 1.6 million. Avista Utilities is an operating division of Avista Corp. (NYSE: AVA). For more information, please visit www.myavista.com.
The Avista logo is a trademark of Avista Corporation.
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