South Slope Provides Matching Charity Grants to Local Nonprofits

December 3, 2020

South Slope Cooperative Communications and Aureon are pleased to announce that matching charity grants have been awarded to Miracles in Motion of Swisher and the Optimist Club of North Liberty. The Aureon Charity Grant Committee reviews many applications, and they carefully delegate funds to projects committed to the betterment of local communities. Although 2020 has presented challenges, both of these groups have worked to find different ways to serve area residents and better their current practices through the pandemic.

Miracles in Motion serves mentally and physically challenged people by allowing them to experience the joy of horseback riding. Miracles in Motion will use their funds to assist in building their new indoor arena, and specifically their new therapy room. This new facility will offer instructors a dedicated space to prepare for class, therapists a quiet space to work, students a transition space to meet the volunteers, and parents a climate-controlled space to watch their child’s session. The arena will also improve the space for community groups such as assisted living facilities, school classes and more that frequently visit.

Optimist Club of North Liberty is a group of generous community members who help those in need. The Optimists will use their funds for their annual Kid-Friendly Food and Winter Outerwear Project that provides food and care items for children of low-income families. The goal of the project is to provide sufficient foods to replace the breakfasts and lunches students would normally receive at school while they are off for winter break. Additionally, the program provides snow pants, boots, mittens, hats and coats to keep children warm all season long. Although the COVID-19 pandemic has affected their normal distribution, the Optimist Club has been able to work with each school to find a solution. Some of these adjustments include partnering with the local food pantry so children can still get these needed supplies in a safe environment.

Grant applications are available at www.southslope.com/grants. Grants are awarded quarterly and amounts are determined by an independent charity grant committee.