KAWARTHA LAKES-Christmas comes early for some Ontario communities including Kawartha Lakes.
Now in its third year, the Commonwell Insurance L.E.A.F. (Learning and Engagement Accelerator Fund) program was created with a passion to enable local programs and projects in Ontario that support learning on a local level.
L.E.A.F. Grants range between $10,000 and $50,000. For 2023, The Commonwell will invest $350,000.00 into exceptional, community-led initiatives that foster learning and build strong communities for future generations.
The initiative received 70 applications and saw 2.7 million in funding requested. Over half of the applications requested the grant maximum, with the average being $40,000, up by 22% over the last year.
“Beyond being a locally focused insurer, The Commonwell is committed to investing in the growth and resiliency of small communities,” said Tim Shauf, President and CEO. “As a member-based mutual insurance company we have a proud heritage of giving back.”
The local insurer has announced 11 community projects will be funded by their $350,000 annual Learning and Engagement Accelerator Fund (L.E.A.F.) including BGC Kawarthas.
BGC Kawarthas “Let’s Get Physical” Space Renewal will modernize the gym with proper dividing curtains that roll up to the ceiling with the use of electrical controls, improving the health and safety of the space, and allowing us to maximize usage of the facility. The vinyl material would be fire-resistant and resistant to rot and mildew. A new scoreboard would also be purchased.
“The communities applying for L.E.A.F 2023 funding have blown us away, pitching exceptional new ideas ranging from technology, STEM, and physical education projects to Food Hub Kitchen outfitting. We are delighted to support these meaningful projects, and we are already looking forward to enabling more great community projects in 2024.”
To learn more about the exceptional community projects being funded by the L.E.A.F. initiative and how Ontario communities can apply for the 2024 L.E.A.F. program visit thecommonwell.ca/leaf.
