Northland Foundation and Valspar Foundation Invite Grant Applications for Free Paint Products

Source: Northland Foundation 01/18/2012

(Jan. 18, 2012) - The Northland Foundation is partnering with the Minneapolis-based Valspar Foundation to provide free paint and coating products for community restoration and beautification projects. Approximately 8-10 projects located within the seven counties of northeastern Minnesota are expected to receive grants this year. Since 1998, the Northland Foundation and Valspar Foundation together have awarded more than 6,300 gallons of paint to 182 projects throughout this region.

Grants through the Valspar Foundation's "Minnesota Beautiful" program are available to communities and nonprofit organizations. Applications and more information are available on the Northland Foundation website. Completed applications are due by March 5, 2012.

Awardees will be notified at the end of March, paint orders will be ready for pick up in May, and projects must be completed by November 1, 2012.

Awards are decided based on visual impact, public benefit, volunteer participation and support, intended use, and benefit to the needy. Projects that may qualify for a grant include historic buildings, senior citizen centers, community centers, public buildings and parks, murals, or other visual impact projects. Projects that do not qualify include churches, city maintenance, privately owned facilities, or schools (with the exception of mural projects).

If individuals have questions or need to request a hard copy of the application, call the Northland Foundation at (218) 723-4040 or 1-800-433-4045 or email Jan Amys, Program Associate.

About the Valspar Foundation

The Valspar Foundation was established in 1979. The purpose of the Valspar Foundation is to provide philanthropic assistance in those communities where we live and work. Valspar believes that it is important to be involved in the communities in which it operates and to financially support those organizations that address community needs and enhance the communities' quality of life. The Valspar Foundation is funded entirely by the Corporation.

About the Northland Foundation

The Northland Foundation is a resource for people, businesses, and communities working toward prosperity through economic and social justice in Aitkin, Carlton, Cook, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake, and St. Louis Counties. The Grant Program directs resources to nonprofits that address issues related to children and youth/strengthening families, poverty alleviation/self-reliance, and programming to help older adults remain vital and independent. The Business Finance Program provides loans to help grow a sustainable economy. The KIDS PLUS family of programs is focused on improving the well-being of children and youth.