Chico, California (May 26, 2008) – All local nonprofit organizations are invited to participate in a North Valley Community Foundation grant program that adds money to contributions received between August 1 and September 30. The Foundation is offering an estimated $100,000 in percentage grants for nonprofits in Butte, Glenn, Tehama and Colusa counties. This includes schools, volunteer fire departments, churches, 4-H, service clubs and any other nonprofit organization.

The Annie B’s Community Drive is designed to encourage giving to local groups during the two-month donation period. Instructions for participation and the online application are available at www.nvcf.org. Applications must be submitted by August 1.

“Now, more than ever, our nonprofits need community support,” states Alexa Valavanis, NVCF CEO. “The recession has increased the demand for many nonprofit services, while donations, government support, and other revenues are dropping. Annie B’s is a chance to help our nonprofits overcome these difficulties.”

During the first two years (2007 & 2008) of the grant program, contributions to local nonprofits through Annie B’s Community Drive totaled more than $2.2 million. In addition to the monies the 200+ nonprofits raised, NVCF contributed $100,000 each year in percentage grants. The percentage grant allows donor’s gifts to make an even greater difference to their chosen nonprofit(s).  The percentage grant during 2007 added 14 percent to monies raised by the nonprofits. Last year, the percentage grant added 10.6 percent.  

Starting on August 1, nonprofit organizations participating in the Annie B’s Community Drive will ask their donors to make contributions. Checks are sent to NVCF by the donor. 100% of these donor contributions will go to the designated nonprofit, plus a share of the $100,000 in grant funds available monies will be added.

“The goal of Annie B’s Community Drive is to increase support from donations and to help organizations fulfill their missions in sustainable ways,” adds Valavanis. “Annie B’s gives nonprofits a reason to ask for donations, and provides donors an incentive for giving.”

All nonprofit organizations in Butte, Tehama, Colusa and Glenn Counties are invited to participate. Activities include an event on September 3, at the Chico City Plaza during the Downtown Thursday Night Market. The public will have an opportunity to see nonprofits display information on services they may want to support. A celebration will be held at the Chico City Plaza on October 17 involving all participating nonprofits and community supporters to announce the results.

The NVCF office is open Monday – Friday, 8am-5pm and by appointments on the weekends. NVCF is located at 3120 Cohasset Rd., Suite 8 in Chico, California, (530) 891-1150.  For questions regarding the Annie B’s Community Drive contact NVCF Program Officer Alexa Valavanis at extension 23 or visit www.nvcf.org.