Poway Community Foundation Announces over $106,000 in Grant Awards to Poway organizations
Sharlene O’Keefe (Poway OnStage), Desiree Sherot and Ellen Clark (both from Neighborhood Healthcare), Dede Maw (Soroptimist International of Poway) and Robin Gibbons (National Foundation for Autism Research). (Ginger Couvrette)
The Poway Community Foundation (PCF) has awarded more than $106,000 in grants for 2025 after reviewing 25 applications from local nonprofits, directing support to 16 programs that strengthen families, expand the arts, support vulnerable residents, and improve quality of life across Poway. PCF inspires enduring philanthropy and Poway pride by raising and directing local resources to meet community needs.
Each year PCF reviews applications from nonprofits, schools, and community partners that meet our guidelines and serve Poway residents. Eligible groups must be a 501(c)(3) and projects need clear goals, a defined budget, and a plan that can be completed within a year. We look for measurable results and long term sustainability. PCF doesn’t fund individuals, scholarships, private foundations, political or religious doctrine, or capital campaigns.
“Supporting these local organizations allows the Poway Community Foundation to directly strengthen our community,” said Ginger Couvrette, Co-Chair of PCF. “From helping families in need to expanding arts and educational opportunities, these grants make a real difference in the lives of Poway residents and help our city thrive.”
2025 Grant Recipients
Birthline of San Diego County – $2,500
Expands the Step Forward Project, providing diapers, formula, clothing, car seats, hygiene items, and case management for Poway families with young children.
Friends of the Poway Library – $4,000
Supports bi weekly Creativity Club sessions offering art and music therapy for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Kiwanis Club of Poway – $10,000
Funds Holiday with Heroes, a holiday experience for 150 students from three Poway elementary schools, providing gifts, dinner, and family resources.
National Foundation for Autism Research (NFAR) – $10,000
Advances a local workforce program that helps Poway businesses hire neurodivergent individuals through training, screening, internships, and ongoing support.
Neighborhood Healthcare – $5,000
Improves healthcare access for low income residents through Medi Cal enrollment assistance, health literacy outreach, and CalFresh support.
Pomerado Elementary School Foundation – $8,575
Purchases a movable display system so all students can showcase their artwork at school events throughout the year.
Poway Neighborhood Emergency Corps – $2,000
Launches a pilot defensible space and wildfire mitigation program for homes in the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
Poway On Stage – $10,000
Provides 718 Valley Elementary students with free access to culturally relevant arts education through the ArtsEd Onstage Partner School Program.
Poway Performing Arts Company (PowPAC) – $5,000
Expands outreach to seniors and students through free theater workshops and tickets, strengthening community engagement.
Poway Symphony Orchestra Foundation – $5,000
Supports three annual symphonic concerts and helps grow attendance toward full 800 seat capacity.
Poway Unified School District Foundation – $9,982
Funds adaptive swings at up to 13 elementary schools, increasing playground accessibility for students with disabilities.
Poway Valley Senior Citizens Corporation – $10,000
Enhances the Older Adults Meal Program with entertainment, games, and guest speakers to boost social connection and mental well-being.
Ride Above Disability Therapeutic Riding Center – $7,978
Improves ranch safety, enhances horse care, and supports therapy horse Remi to serve children and adults with disabilities.
Soroptimist International of Poway – $3,500
Provides laptops for domestic violence survivors in transitional housing to support education, job searches, and schoolwork.
Steadfast Foster and Adoptive Support – $5,000
Launches Connect Groups in Poway, offering peer support and trauma informed childcare for foster, adoptive, and kinship families.
The Community Food Connection – $8,000
Installs climate control equipment to protect refrigeration systems and ensure uninterrupted food distribution to more than 9000 people annually.