The Main Street Community Foundation reports that it recently awarded grants for a total of $7,500 to the following organizations: 

​• Boys & Girls Club of Bristol – $1,500 – Passport to Manhood program, a program that reinforces character, leadership and positive behavior in boys ages 8-17

• City of Bristol Youth and Community Services – $2,000 – Skills to Pay the Bills, Men’s Edition, a life skills program for high school aged young men• 

Plainville Adult and Continuing Education – $2,000 – Boot Camp for New Dads program, a community-based workshop that supports the transition to fatherhood

• The Children’s Law Center – $2,000 – Legal representation of male children in family court from the communities of Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth, Southington and Wolcott

“It’s exciting – the Fund has supported three of the organizations in the past, and they have all had great impact,” stated Richard Carmelich, the Men & Boys’ Fund Advisory Board Chairperson. “Meanwhile, the Plainville Adult and Continuing Education program, Boot Camp for New Dads, is a national program that is being brought to Plainville, and it will be the first in the state.”

Established five years ago, the Men & Boys’ Fund seeks to help men and boys improve the quality of their lives, increase self-sufficiency and make a positive difference in their communities. In the fall each year, the Fund provides grants to programs that align with the Fund’s mission. In addition, throughout the year, the Men & Boys’ Immediate Response Fund supports grants of up to $250 for men and boys who may be in need of immediate assistance due to a particular life situation or unexpected financial hardship. 

“The generosity and enthusiasm of the six communities we serve makes what we do possible,” said Susan Sadecki, President & CEO of the Community Foundation. “It takes many donors and volunteers to deliver on the mission.”

For more information about the Men & Boys’ Fund, visit mainstreetfoundation.org/men-boys-fund.