URGENT UPDATE: The Community Foundation Boulder County has just awarded approximately $29,000 to 12 local nonprofits in Lafayette, marking a significant shift in the administration of the One Lafayette fund. This funding supports vital services including food assistance, youth programs, and community support in Lafayette, Colorado.
The recipients of this year’s grants include notable organizations such as Coal Creek Adult Education Center, Community Food Share, and YMCA of Northern Colorado, among others. Each organization will receive varying amounts, with Community Food Share and Coal Creek Meals on Wheels both awarded $3,500 each. This grant initiative is crucial for local residents, especially in light of ongoing community needs.
In a pivotal change, the administration of the One Lafayette fund has transitioned from city oversight to the Community Foundation Boulder County. This decision follows the approval of a dedicated mental health and human services sales tax by Lafayette voters in 2021, which established a new revenue stream for community grants. As Lafayette City spokesperson Natalie Miller stated, the sales tax was “up and running” by 2023, allowing for more comprehensive funding mechanisms for local organizations.
Historically, the One Lafayette fund began as a city-operated initiative in the early 2000s and was formalized in 2008 with an initial contribution from the city. However, in October 2024, the Lafayette City Council approved an ordinance to remove the requirement for a $25,000 city contribution to the fund, further empowering the Community Foundation to manage the disbursement of grants independently.
According to Lafayette City Manager Kady Doelling, “Much has evolved since the creation of the fund in 2008,” highlighting how the new sales tax enhances support for community needs. The fund is structured to ensure that the principal amount remains intact, with annual grant distributions anticipated to remain consistent with this year’s total.
The breakdown of this year’s funding allocations reveals the commitment to diverse community support. Other recipients include Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence and Sister Carmen Community Center, each receiving substantial funding to continue their essential services.
Community members interested in contributing to the One Lafayette fund can do so by mailing checks to the City of Lafayette. The foundation’s vice president of programs, Sarah Harrison, expressed gratitude for the longstanding partnership with the city, stating, “We are honored to carry on the work of the One Lafayette fund.”
As this funding supports critical services in the community, it underscores the importance of local nonprofit organizations in addressing the needs of Lafayette residents. The community eagerly awaits the impact of these grants, which are expected to enhance the quality of life for many.
Stay tuned for further updates as the Community Foundation Boulder County continues to manage the One Lafayette initiative, signifying a new chapter in local support and community engagement.
