By 1808Delaware
The Delaware County Commissioners have officially awarded the 2025 Community Enhancement Grants (CEG), directing $224,966 from the county’s general fund to a dozen nonprofit organizations for capital improvement projects that will benefit residents across the county.
This year’s slate of projects reflects a mix of preservation, access, education, and support—touching everything from roofs to walking trails to internet connections.
Investing in Places That Matter
Several grants will help preserve historic and culturally significant buildings:
- Andrews House in Delaware receives $20,000 to replace its roof, a key structural update for the longtime community service hub.
- The Delaware County Cultural Arts Center (The Arts Castle) will use $23,480 for window refurbishment, preserving the integrity of its historic building while improving efficiency.
- The Delaware County Historical Society has been awarded $18,000 for roof repairs at the Old Jail, ensuring that the county’s rich past continues to be accessible to the public. (pictured)
Enhancing Services for Vulnerable Populations
Several organizations will use grant funds to upgrade facilities that directly serve those in need:
- Family Promise of Delaware County receives $14,906 to replace flooring in its Promise House shelter.
- People In Need, which operates a local food pantry, will use $17,771 to replace doors at its facility.
- Turning Point, which supports survivors of domestic violence, has been granted $25,000 to purchase a van for the Delaware shelter.
Building Inclusion and Access
A number of projects focus on increasing accessibility, connectivity, and educational opportunity:
- Recreation Unlimited Farm and Fun will make $21,305 in accessibility upgrades to its prairie walking trails.
- Stockhands Horses for Healing, which provides therapeutic equine activities, has been awarded $15,000 to install internet access via fiber.
- The Central Ohio Symphony receives $8,000 for its “Link Up” program, which offers fourth graders in the county an interactive musical education experience.
Supporting Nonprofits That Support the County
Several grants are aimed at strengthening infrastructure within local nonprofits themselves:
- Safe Harbor Peer Support Services receives $5,000 for renovations at its new headquarters.
- Strand Theatre and Cultural Arts Association is awarded $11,534 to purchase and install updated presentation equipment.
- Stratford Ecological Center receives $20,000 toward a new education building that will expand its programming.
- TAG Community Living Services, part of The Alpha Group, gets $25,000 to purchase a maintenance vehicle to support its facilities.
About the Community Enhancement Grant Program
The CEG program is open only to nonprofits that operate primarily within Delaware County and have 501(c)(3) status—or whose funds are managed through The Foundation for Delaware County. All grants are project-specific and reimbursement-based, meaning the funds are distributed after proof of completed project work is submitted.
The program’s 2025 cycle ran from June 10 to July 1. Applications were reviewed competitively, with awards made at the discretion of the Board of Commissioners.
Each year, the grants reflect the county’s commitment to supporting local organizations in tangible, lasting ways.
If you want to learn more about the Community Enhancement Grant Program, visit the Delaware County Commissioners’ Office website or contact their office directly.
