The Last Green Valley, Inc. (TLGV) has awarded more than $22,000 in a new grant program designed to help non-profits build capacity during challenging times. As non-profits strive to advance their mission while not being able to offer their usual programs, events and opportunities, TLGV provided up to $1,500 for equipment, services and training to help organizations improve communication or provide alternative means of engaging the public.

“As we were learning how to adapt to a world where in-person programming was not possible, we realized many of our partners were struggling with the same issues,” said Lois Bruinooge, executive director. “We wanted to be as supportive as possible to help our fellow non-profits navigate these changing times.”

Grants were awarded to the following organizations:

• Avalonia Land Conservancy in Mystic, CT: $1,500 to purchase social media software and computer equipment to provide Zoom meetings.
• Chamberlin Mill in Woodstock, CT: $962 to purchase software and training to produce a digital newsletter for the Chamberlin Mill, Inc.
• CliCk in Windham, CT: $1,064 for creation of an outdoor “open air” learning space in Willimantic.
• Connecticut Daughters of the American Revolution in Lebanon, CT: $853 to hire a videographer/marketing company to produce a video to promote the history of the Wadsworth Stable.
• Eastern Connecticut Conservation District in Norwich, CT: $1,500 to purchase and train staff on a social media platform to enhance and coordinate their social media capabilities.
• Franklin Historical Society/Ashbel Woodward Museum in Franklin, CT: $1,000 to upgrade a computer, purchase domain name for website, purchase archival storage, a photo light box and associated equipment and install countertop area for digitizing photos.
• Girl Scouts of Connecticut in Lebanon, CT: $1,500 for equipment to enhance virtual learning at the environmental lab at Camp Laurel.
• Hitchcock Free Academy in Brimfield, MA: $1,500 to purchase computers and video equipment and to improve internet capabilities to better serve their public by offering online training and computer classes.
• Joshua’s Tract Conservation and Historic Trust in Mansfield, CT: $500 for the purchase of equipment and software to increase their ability to film and promote their properties throughout the region.
• Lebanon Historical Society in Lebanon, CT: $800 to install interpretive signage at various Lebanon historical buildings.
• Mansfield Historical Society in Mansfield, CT: $750 to purchase a digital camera and equipment to expand their website and social media presence.
•  The Mill Museum in Willimantic, CT: $1,490 to develop and implement online educational programs to promote the region’s history.
•  Norwich Historical Society in Norwich, CT: $1,500 for the production of three videos to improve public awareness of Norwich history and increase NHS and Leffingwell House Museum’s storytelling capabilities.
• Opacum Land Trust in Sturbridge, MA: $1,500 to improve and expand remote communications through their website and other digital platforms to better promote their properties.
• Our Bright Future in Charlton, MA: $1,048 to purchase a printer/scanner and video camera to reduce costs, improve their remote abilities and expand awareness of the organization.
• Pomfret Historical Society in Pomfret, CT: $750 for equipment to digitize images and documents for use on their website.
• Windham ARTS in Windham, CT: $1,500 to upgrade their website and purchase video equipment, software and provide training to produce videos to promote local artists.
• Windham County 4-H Foundation, Pomfret, CT: $1,500 for the purchase of equipment to offer virtual learning experiences.
• Windham Regional Chamber of Commerce, Inc. in Windham, CT: $1,500 to upgrade their website and purchase video equipment, software and provide training to produce videos for local businesses.

All grants were matched by at least 1:1 cash or in-kind contributions. Applications were accepted on a rolling basis. Non-profit 501(c) organizations with missions aligned with the vision and strategies of the management plan for The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor were eligible.

The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor is the last stretch of dark night sky in the coastal sprawl between Boston and Washington, D.C. The Last Green Valley, Inc. is a member- supported, non-profit organization working for you in the National Heritage Corridor. Together we can care for, enjoy and pass on The Last Green Valley!