Fort Frye Middle School students explored careers in advanced manufacturing during the M.A.D.E. Tour held at the school on Oct. 28, sponsored by the Appalachian Ohio Manufacturers' Coalition. They were able to learn about the steps in the manufacturing process including design, subtractive manufacturing, additive manufacturing through 3D printing, fabrication through welding and assembly through robotics. (Photo Provided)

From staff reports

MARIETTA — Through its fall grant cycle, the Marietta Community Foundation has awarded nearly $136,000.

“When you look around Washington County, you see a hundred quiet acts of generosity that often go unnoticed, but together, they shape the story of who we are,” said Britani Merritt, vice president, donor and program services for the foundation. “That’s what these grants represent: local people lifting each other up, filling the gaps, and building something lasting. It’s not just about funding projects… to the Foundation, it is about investing in the shared future of Washington County.”

Fall Community Impact Grant Recipients

* Appalachian Ohio Manufacturers Coalition — $10,000

The grant will support the M.A.D.E. to Make program, giving students hands-on experience

with the engineering-to-production process while connecting them to careers with local manufacturers.

“We’re thrilled to launch the M.A.D.E. Tour with support from a Community Impact Grant from Marietta Community Foundation,” said Dana Hermann, executive director of the coalition. “This funding makes it possible for us to take the tour directly to schools – bringing manufacturing to life for students through hands-on, interactive experiences that connect real job titles with local employers. By showcasing the exciting, innovative opportunities within today’s manufacturing industry, we’re helping students take their first steps toward rewarding technical careers and strengthening the future workforce of our region.”

* Artsbridge — $6,270

Continuing the Arts Connection program, providing creative outlets for children affected by the opioid epidemic, helping them express emotion, build resilience and find healing through art.

* Boys & Girls Club of Washington County — $8,000

Providing safe spaces, caring mentors and after-school programs that encourage academic success, healthy choices and positive growth.

* Building Bridges to Careers — $8,500

Funding student stipends for exploratory internships that connect classroom learning to local career opportunities and help small businesses grow.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Marietta Community Foundation for supporting our internship program,” said Tasha Werry, executive director of BB2C. “This grant gives local high school students the chance to explore careers right here in our community, build real-world professional skills, and connect with the businesses and industries that need their talent. It’s an investment not just in our students, but in the future of our local workforce.”

* Caring Connection (with MCF) — $10,000

Continuing vehicle repair assistance through the foundation’s Hardship Program, helping low-income families maintain access to work, child care and essential appointments.

* Habitat for Humanity of the Mid-Ohio Valley — $10,000

Completing the MCF sponsorship for House #118 in Beverly, providing a safe, affordable home for a local family.

* UnPuzzled Parents Connect — $5,500

Providing autism-specific first responder training and community gatherings that build understanding and trust between families and emergency personnel.

* Village of Matamoras — $18,000

Completing Phase 2 of the Matamoras Community Pool repairs, preserving one of the community’s most cherished gathering places.

* Washington County Home — $17,563

Purchasing a new side-by-side vehicle to transport residents to therapeutic activities and support the home’s self-sustaining farm operations that benefit both residents and local food programs.

* Washington County Homeless Project — $10,000

Supporting winter operations of the Drop-In Center, which provides warmth, meals and connection for individuals experiencing homelessness.

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The Foundation’s Simple Solutions Grant Program was created for everyday needs, quick fixes, small upgrades and other efforts to strengthen the community. Recipients this quarter include:

* ARC of the Mid-Ohio Valley

* Beverly-Center Elementary School

* Blessing Birds

* Civil War Roundtable of the Mid-Ohio Valley

* Community Action Program of Washington/Morgan Counties

* First Baptist Church of Marietta

* Fort Frye Athletic Boosters

* Fort Frye Middle School

* Lowell Elementary School

* Marietta Band Boosters

* Marietta/Belpre Health Department

* Marietta City Schools

* Marietta College

* Mid-Ohio Valley Entertainment Commission (MOV Film)

* Scouting America, Muskingum Valley Council

* United Church Homes

* Village of Beverly (B&W GRO)

* Washington County Family & Children First