Centre Inspires

Inspiring Centre County

From 2014 to 2019, the Centre Inspires program funded transformative projects designed to create change on a county-wide scale through community engagement.

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, this program was retired, and its funding was reallocated to provide additional support to the nonprofit organizations that participate in Centre Gives. We expect to launch a new community impact grant program in 2024 that aligns with our values and strategic vision for Centre County following a strategic planning process.

How Centre Inspires Worked

Through an annual competitive application process, Centre Foundation provided $100,000 grants to six innovative projects that aimed to transform an aspect of life in Centre County. Collaborations between nonprofit organizations and other entities that foster community engagement were encouraged. Read below to learn more about the six inspirational projects that were funded.

The Legacy of Centre Inspires

All six inspirational projects across Centre County that were awarded start-up funding through Centre Inspires continue to exist in some form today. Whenever you learn a new skill at The Rivet or buy a cup of coffee at Good Day Café, you join your neighbors in creating a more vibrant Centre County. Learn more about each project by clicking on its name.

2019 - ACRES Project
Designed by ACRES Project, the Community Supported Agriculture program will provide horticultural therapy, employment, and community integration for adults with autism and intellectual disabilities.

2018 - The Rivet
Created by Discovery Space, The Rivet is a community workshop that connects multiple generations, hobbyists, and entrepreneurs to the skills and equipment they need to create new products.

2017 – Good Day Café
Envisioned by Strawberry Fields, this coffee shop employs individuals with disabilities and promotes inclusion in our community.

2016 - Centred Outdoors
Designed by Clearwater Conservancy, this program promotes health and wellness through local guided adventures during the summer.

2015 - Food Centres
This Penns Valley Youth Centre project allows students to grow and sell fresh produce, while learning important life skills.

2014 - Book Benches of Centre County
Twenty-five fiberglass benches painted by local artists were installed across the county through this collaborative program.

Ready to partner with Centre Foundation? Contact Rachael Hartman to get started today.

rachael@centre-foundation.org

814-237-6229