I Am Trenton Awards $110,000 in 2025 Citywide Grants Supporting Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
The I Am Trenton Community Foundation has announced a significant step toward advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion across the city as it awarded $110,000 in grants to 18 projects for 2025. These citywide grants support an array of innovative initiatives, reinforcing the foundation’s aim of reaching a $1 million total in grants by 2026.
Fueling Transformation Through Community-Led Initiatives
This year’s grants foster projects that mirror Trenton’s vibrant and diverse spirit, as foundation leaders Marelyn Rivera, Michelle Ruess, and Regina Podhorin-Zilinski emphasized. The funded initiatives span a broad spectrum, including arts, education, mentorship, public safety, cultural preservation, and community healing — each poised to drive significant impact across Trenton.
“Trenton’s greatest strength has always been its people — the dreamers, the doers, the neighbors who care enough to make a difference,” said Marelyn Rivera, Co-President of the foundation. “When we invest in one another, we don’t just improve Trenton — we transform it.”
Michelle Ruess, Co-President, added, “Our grantees represent what happens when neighbors step up to shape the community they want to see.”
A Closer Look at the Funded Projects
Each project reflects a commitment to addressing local needs while promoting inclusiveness. Among the recipients is Casa Cultura’s Community Arts & Latino Oral History Project, which champions artistic expression and cultural preservation within the city.
On the public safety front, the East Trenton Collaborative’s “Slow the Curve! Mulberry Street” initiative seeks to improve traffic safety through community-driven street design. Emiija’s Hope Center plays an essential role in mentorship, providing resources for youth and families to inspire inclusion and connection.
In promoting community wellness, the First Presbyterian Church of Trenton offers free public yoga sessions to support mental and physical health.
Another notable recipient is the Guatemalan Civic Association’s citywide celebration of motherhood—a festive gathering aimed at strengthening community bonds. Projects like Richard Hutchinson’s youth entrepreneurship program and the Old Barracks Association’s initiative for Spanish translations in historic programming also highlight the diverse impact of this year’s grants.
The Community Speaks
Local stakeholders have responded positively to these funding efforts, recognizing the fundamental changes they could drive in Trenton. “Every donation, no matter the size, helps fuel these incredible ideas into action,” remarked Caitlin Fair, representative of the foundation. “When people give locally, they’re investing in their neighbors, neighborhoods, and the shared future of our city.”
The grants align with ongoing conversations and efforts in Trenton toward more inclusive and community-driven growth. By focusing on diverse local initiatives, I Am Trenton continues to harness the power of community interest and resident-led projects to enhance neighborhood development.
The Road to $1 Million
Founded in 2007, the I Am Trenton Community Foundation has a storied commitment to nurturing pride, creativity, and resilience among Trentonians. The foundation anticipates reaching the $1 million milestone in grants by 2026, marking a pivotal point in its mission to support grassroots transformation.
Looking ahead, the success of the 2025 Citywide Grants could influence other cities to adopt similar community-centric funding models, underscoring the vital role of localized philanthropy in urban renewal.
Engaging the Local Community
The foundation will host a check ceremony on November 12 at One Mill to celebrate this year’s grantees and their impactful projects. Community members and press representatives are warmly invited to attend and witness how each initiative contributes to the foundation’s broader vision.
In anticipation of further initiatives, the foundation plans to continue fostering partnerships and collecting donations of all sizes. As Trenton progresses towards its $1 million goal, strategies will likely evolve, leveraging insights gained to refine grant distribution and expand its reach across the city.
Staying Informed and Getting Involved
Residents eager to learn more or join in the foundation’s efforts can find additional resources through Woke news and TrentonDaily, providing continuous updates on local impacts and opportunities for engagement.
In conclusion, the 2025 Citywide Grants represent a foundation of hope and purpose in Trenton, driven by a collective vision of a more inclusive and equitable city. As the community comes together to embrace these changes, the potential for long-lasting transformation grows ever brighter.
For more information, or to get involved with the I Am Trenton Community Foundation, Trenton residents can reach out via their official site or join upcoming community events.
