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Police K9 units play a vital role in keeping our communities safe. These hardworking dogs help officers track suspects, find missing people and detect illegal substances. But, maintaining a skilled and effective K9 unit requires continuous funding for training, equipment and proper facilities. That is where the Darrell and Gloria Rank K9 Corps Fund of Berks County Community Foundation can help. 

This fund provides grants to help train, purchase and maintain K9 units for governmental entities in Berks County. Right now, applications are open for organizations that need funding to support their K9 teams. 

How was the fund created? Darrell and Gloria Rank dedicated their lives to making Berks County a safer place. Darrell was the first executive of the Berks Earned Income Tax Bureau and took action when his community needed him most. He once rescued a woman from a flooded car in 1972 during Hurricane Agnes and helped bring a dangerous criminal to justice after witnessing an assault.  

When Gloria passed away in 2012, she left most of her estate to Berks County Community Foundation, ensuring that their commitment to public safety would continue. Today, the Darrell and Gloria Rank K9 Corps Fund honors their legacy by providing essential resources for K9 units in the county. 

How is this fund making a difference?  A recent grant was used to update and maintain two K9 facilities where police dogs are housed and trained. These facilities are critical for keeping the unit efficient and ready for duty. The grant covered the cost of materials and labor to complete much-needed improvements, ensuring the facilities are still safe and functional for years to come. 

The project was delayed due to circumstances such as switching contractors. However, the team worked hard to overcome challenges and keep the upgrades on track. Thanks to this funding, K9 handlers and their dogs now have a safer and more effective training environment. 

The Darrell and Gloria Rank K9 Corps Fund of Berks County Community Foundation is currently accepting applications to help provide essential funding for K9 training, equipment, and facility maintenance. To apply, click here.  

Receiving a grant from Berks County Community Foundation marks an exciting milestone in your organization’s journey. It’s more than just funding – it’s a boost of confidence in your vision and the impact you make in our community. Let’s walk through what happens next and how to make the most of this opportunity. 

First Things First: The Grant Agreement 

Before the fund is distributed, there’s one crucial step that must be taken: completing your grant agreement form. This document outlines the responsibilities between your organization and the Community Foundation, ensuring clarity and setting expectations. You’ll need to submit this through our third-party online portal within 30 days of receiving your email offer. 

Sharing Your Success 

Once your grant agreement is squared away, consider sharing your achievement with the community. Here’s how to do it effectively: 

Take a moment to acknowledge the dedication and hard work that brought you here. Your team’s commitment deserves recognition, and this grant validates their efforts. 

Consider sharing your journey and plans across your communication channels. Whether that is through your website, social media, or newsletter, let your supporters know about this exciting program. It’s about inspiring others and showing the positive changes happening in our community. 

When sharing news about your grant, please include proper acknowledgment of the funding source. Use the following format: 

“Support for this project was provided by the [XYZ Fund] of Berks County Community Foundation.” 

Click here to download a comprehensive resource to help you navigate this journey. Click here to find detailed guidelines for using our organization’s name and logo, templates for various communications and more! 

This grant is just the beginning. We’re excited to see how your project develops and the positive change it brings to our community. Remember, our team is here to support your success every step of the way. 

Have specific questions about promoting your funding? Email me at ericac@bccf.org. 

The Building Industries Exchange of Reading and Berks County Fund supports the construction or renovation of facilities owned by or for charitable organizations in Berks County. To be considered for funding, organizations must fill out a Letter of Intent (LOI) form. LOIs will typically be reviewed within 14 days of submission. If the project meets the fund’s mission, the Community Foundation will invite the organization to submit an official application.  

LOIs and applications are accepted on a rolling basis when funding is available. There is currently $65,000 in funding available, with grants typically ranging from $10,000 to $25,000. Before starting an LOI, organizations should review the Community Foundation’s grantee standards on the website. 

Since this fund was established in 2013, nearly $300,000 has been awarded to 48 organizations and individuals in Berks County. 

The construction and building industries are essential to economic development and community well-being. With advancements in sustainable building practices, energy efficiency, and modern construction techniques, the industry is evolving rapidly.  

To learn more about the Building Industries Exchange of Reading and Berks County Fund visit: https://bccf.org/funds/building-industries-exchange-of-reading-and-berks-county-fund-2/. 

The Building Industries Exchange of Reading and Berks County Fund is one of the many funds managed by Emily Smedley, our Environment and Energy Program Officer. Emily leads initiatives supporting environmental health, sustainable energy, and community vitality in Berks County. To learn more about Emily’s role, click the video below.  

January is “National Thank You Month”— a time to embrace the power of gratitude. Originally established to encourage appreciation after the holiday season, it reminds us to reflect on the kindness and support we receive throughout the year. At Berks County Community Foundation, we don’t really need reminders to be grateful for the support we receive from members of the community – we see examples of this support every day, year-round.  

In calendar year 2024, we received over 1,500 donations from 760 donors. In addition, seven new funds were established in 2024, each with specific charitable goals defined by the fund’s founders. Those donations and funds will contribute to the Foundation’s ability to distribute grants and scholarships for many years to come. 

To give an idea of the impact made by the donations we receive and the funds we manage, Berks County Community Foundation awarded $6,465,590 in grants to 563 organizations and individuals in calendar year 2024.  

Grants awarded are made possible by generous donors who give back to the community they love. Community members are invited to join the Foundation in sparking change. Here are two ways to get involved:  

  1. Give to an Existing Fund: Your contributions can help sustain the important work of established funds addressing specific needs within Berks County.  
  1. Create Your Own Fund: Whether you want to honor a loved one or support a particular cause or organization, the Foundation can help you to create a fund that reflects your passions and philanthropic goals.  

For more information on how to give or create a fund, please visit www.bccf.org, email Molly McCullough Robbins at mollyr@bccf.org, or call (610) 685-2223 

Every summer, Immanuel Preschool at Immanuel United Church of Christ (UCC) in Shillington welcomes eager youngsters for three weeks of fun and robust educational activities. This past summer, thanks to a grant from the First United Church of Christ Mission Fund of Berks County Community Foundation, kids could attend the summer camp for free. 

As many families struggle to meet basic needs, let alone afford enrichment activities for their children, the free preschool at Immanuel UCC lessens the financial burden while minimizing “summer slide.”

“The benefits of summer programming are invaluable to preschool aged and other young children. It not only helps to prevent the “summer slide” but provides a structured environment that may not otherwise be accessible for some families,” says Madison Kaley, preschool director at Immanuel Preschool.

Immanuel Preschool is filling a big need in the community by providing a summer camp that keeps kids learning over the summer, so they do not lose skills they developed during the school year. At summer camp, children will grow in confidence in social situations, early education, coordination, and skills.

Immanuel Preschool’s summer camp has been running for several years, and the program continues to grow. With this year’s grant, the camp was able to buy more classroom materials, crafts, and safety supplies, including free books for every student. The grant will also help cover the cost of hiring additional teachers and assistants to make sure all children get the support they need. 

Learn more about the First United Church of Christ Mission Fund of Berks County Community Foundation, here.

A new initiative is changing lives one word at a time. In March of 2024, the Literacy Council of Reading­ Berks launched its Overcoming Barriers Project. The goal of this project is to provide resources such as bus passes to enable female program participants the opportunity to participate in Literacy Council classes. Students will learn to read and write proficiently, become productive citizens, prepare for work, and achieve success at their jobs.

The Literacy Council of Reading-Berks is dedicated to eradicating illiteracy by teaching students to develop job skills, become a better parent, and to give back to the community. Their mission is to help adults better communicate, collaborate, and contribute to their families, workplaces, and communities.

The Overcoming Barriers Project addresses a critical need in our community. The classes go beyond reading and writing; they’re stepping ­stones to helping these females break barriers that are preventing them from being successful. The program provides a monthly BARTA bus pass for English as a Second Language (ESL) students, high school equivalency certification classes, GED preparation materials and exam fees, and a gateway to citizenship program. “The answer to being productive in life, work, and the community is the ability to communicate, collaborate with, and contribute to others’, explains Beverly Hirneisen of the Literacy Council. “Those who are illiterate find that impossible to do.”

The Power of the Purse (POP) Fund of Berks County Community Foundation provided support for the Overcoming Barriers Project. “The Power of the Purse Fund’s support is invaluable,’ says Beverly Hirneisen. “It allows us to focus on what we do best -teaching literacy skills – while ensuring our female students have the means to attend classes regularly.”

As women improve their literacy skills, they become more effective advocates for themselves and for children in schools and other public institutions. The program also serves as a gateway to higher education and increased community involvement.

“Women benefit in earnings from increased literacy skills,” Hirneisen notes. “Participation in literacy programs leads to a significant increase in participation in other community organizations.” The Literacy Council’s efforts are already bearing fruit. Students are progressing through ESL class levels, passing GED exams, and even gaining U.S. citizenship. These achievements are measured through post-testing results, exam passing rates, and tracking students’ progression through various educational levels.

One of the partners of the Literacy Council is Reading Area Community College (RACC). The partnership with a community college is crucial. Literacy Council helps RACC with professional development, student transfers, the Keystone Education Yields Success (KEYS) program, and admission assistance.

The Council also provides ESL and high school equivalency classes through Berks Latino Workforce Development Corporation, and Connections Work. The Overcoming Barriers Project is more than just a literacy program; it’s a program that provides hope. The impact of this program is immense. For each woman who learns to read, write, and communicate effectively, the program is not just changing one life-it is transforming families and strengthening our entire community.

The Literacy Council of Reading-Berks, through its Overcoming Barriers Project, is writing a new chapter in the story of Berks County. It’s a tale of empowerment, resilience, and the power of lifelong learning.

POP is a women’s giving circle with a focus on providing grants to programs that break the cycle of poverty by eliminating or addressing barriers for Berks County girls and women who want to enter or re-enter the workforce or seek the education they need to do so.

In 2024, POP awarded a total of $75,000 to the following organizations:

In Fiscal Year 2024, Berks County Community Foundation distributed $5.4 million in grants and scholarships to support the community. The year was filled with innovative projects, impactful programs and a strong commitment to our mission.  

Berks County Community Foundation helps donors fulfill their charitable desires. The Foundation was established in 1994 as a non-profit, public charity to provide a locally managed resource for establishing endowments. We have program officers on staff who are experts in their focus areas – energy & environment, lifelong learning, health & human services, the arts, and neighborhood & economic development. They steward these charitable funds to ensure that the grants and scholarships awarded from them are making an impact and fulfilling our donors’ wishes.  

“The work we do isn’t only about working with donors to establish funds. Nor is it just about awarding grants and scholarships. The team at the Community Foundation convenes local leaders, research national and local trends, and chooses initiatives on which to focus so community conversations get moving and big ideas are discussed”, Kevin Murphy, president says.  

The Annual Report highlights our mission of promoting philanthropy and improving the quality of life for the residents of Berks County. The team works hard to bring organizations and individuals together for collaboration to spark change in the community. This year’s Annual Report provides detailed stories and data behind these achievements, underscoring the powerful impact of donor support in the community.  

To read the full report, take a look below.  

As part of our ongoing efforts to streamline our payment systems, we are excited to announce that Berks County Community Foundation will begin distributing all grant payments via ACH (Automated Clearing House) effective January 1, 2025. This transition marks a significant step toward enhancing the efficiency and security of our financial processes. 

As you may already know, an ACH payment is an electronic payment credited directly to your bank account on the payment date. This method is not only reliable but also safe and convenient. By implementing ACH payments, both the Foundation and our payment recipients will benefit from improved controls, reduced chances of check fraud, better cash management, and decreased bank charges. 

Recent challenges such as inconsistent mail delivery, rising instances of mail theft, and lost checks have prompted us to make this necessary transition. We believe that moving to ACH payments will mitigate these issues and ensure that your funding arrives securely and on time. 

To receive future grant payments, all individual grantees and organizations will need to complete an ACH authorization form. You can fill out the form by clicking here. This form must be filled out by an authorized signer from your organization and submitted along with a copy of a voided check. Payments will continue to be made on the 1st and 15th of each month. You will receive an email notification detailing the remittance of payments once they are processed. 

If your organization has already completed an ACH form with us, there’s no need to fill it out again unless you have updated account information to provide. 

We hope you find this new process smooth and beneficial. Should you have any questions or need assistance regarding this transition, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at my email, sallyc@bccf.org or call 610-685-2223. 

Congratulations! You’ve received a grant from Berks County Community Foundation. This is an acknowledgment of your project’s potential and a testament to your hard work. This is a significant milestone, and we are excited to support you on your journey. What comes next?

Before you receive the funding from us, you are required to submit a grant agreement form. This agreement details the responsibilities of Berks County Community Foundation and your organization (grantee). This form must be completed within 30 days of the date of the initial offer email. This form can be submitted through our online portal.

After successfully submitting your grant agreement form, you have the option to share your results with the community. If you decided that you’d like to share on your website or social platforms, be sure to take the time to celebrate, share your results, and acknowledge the funding source.

You can find more information about this by following our guide. You can download a copy of the guide by clicking here. There are guidelines on how to correctly write the name of our organization and use our logo. Click here to find templates and download our logo.

Receiving a grant is a great achievement and an excellent opportunity to make a significant impact in our community. By understanding the terms of your grant, effectively managing your project/program, and reporting on your progress, you set the stage for a successful outcome. We are here to support you every step of the way. Here’s to sparking positive change that your project is bound to bring!

If you would like more information on the specific funding you received, contact Erica Caceres, Communication Manager, at ericac@bccf.org.

Over our 30-year history, we have had the opportunity to meet with hundreds of people who wanted to make a difference in their community – to give back in support of a cause about which they cared deeply or in honor or memory of someone they loved or admired. Thousands of grants representing millions of dollars have been distributed in Berks County thanks to the foresight of those donors who trusted Berks County Community Foundation with their charitable gifts. 

Every year or two, we update the Funds for Grants and Scholarships brochure, which lists the funds currently available for grantmaking and scholarship awards. Feel free to browse the brochure to learn more about how donors have supported individuals and organizations in our community – everything including animals, arts & culture, education, environment & energy, health & human services, neighborhoods & economic development, public safety, scholarships, and youth sports.  You may find an opportunity for funding or inspiration for establishing your own fund.   

Change starts with a spark.  Your spark.  We’re here to help – please reach out with any questions or ideas.