GRANTS
Harold T. Sumner Grants
Purpose
Harold T. Sumner Professional Education Grants are given to independent nonprofit organizations in Gaston County. The grants will be awarded to independent charitable, cultural, or educational organizations that seek financing for professional training/education for a key staff member with at least one year of service in the nominating organization.
Application Details
This grant will not be active in 2026.
Questions? Need more information? Email Lauren Vanacore at Lvanacore@cfgaston.org.
"I have learned so much at the Forum and cannot wait to share this information with our YMCA organization. The whole time I was there I was so thankful for this opportunity that was given to me."
- SHARON PADGETT, COO, GASTON COUNTY FAMILY YMCA
2024 HAROLD T. SUMNER GRANT RECIPIENT
History
Harold Townsend Sumner demonstrated in words and actions his belief that good citizens working together through independent charitable organizations are critical to improving quality of life in Gaston County.
He was a co-founder and constant leader of Gaston Community Foundation’s efforts to effectively assemble and manage long-term charitable funds on behalf of local philanthropists and the operating charitable organizations. He also pictured the Foundation as a role model in encouraging philanthropy.
The Foundation sees this plan as a permanent tribute to Mr. Sumner’s service, consistent with his vision for the community and the Foundation’s own mission.
Harold T. Sumner Professional Education Grants are given to independent nonprofit organizations in Gaston County.
The grants will be awarded to independent charitable, cultural, or educational organizations that seek financing for professional training/education for a key staff member with at least one year of service in the nominating organization.
Preference is giving for training that is local / in-state.
- Awards will be based on direct nomination by a tax-exempt community organization meeting normal Foundation standards for grants from its unrestricted Funds on behalf of one of its staff members. Organizations that receive the grant will not be eligible to apply for the grant cycle the following year.
- The maximum amount awarded in this year will be $5,000. The Foundation may grant either one or more grants from that total amount. However, no grant will be made if, in the Foundation’s sole discretion, no deserving applications are received.
- Governmental agencies are not eligible for grants. Neither churches nor private schools can apply unless the duties of the individual applicant are clearly and totally in community programs as opposed to internal programs of the church or school.
- The Foundation will establish a committee to select recipients in a fair and competitive manner. Key criteria will include the non-profit staff member’s professional record and the potential for positive results to benefit the nominating organization.
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