The Columbus Recreation and Parks Foundation is proud to announce the inaugural recipients of its Pillar Grant Program, marking a major milestone in the Foundation’s commitment to strengthening community centers across Columbus.
Designed to support Programs, Innovation, Leadership, Learning, and Recreation, the Pillar Grant Program provides critical funding to enhance programming and deepen community engagement for CRPD community centers. As a new initiative, the program reflects the Foundation’s evolution toward more direct, impactful investment in neighborhood-based services.
In its inaugural Spring 2026 cycle, the PILLAR Grant Program awarded more than $13,000 to community center projects across the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department.
These projects reflect the creativity, dedication, and impact of our community centers:
- Lazelle Woods Community Center – Ceramics Program Upgrades
Funding will support the purchase of a new slab roller, improving accessibility and usability for participants of all ages and skill levels while expanding ceramics programming. - Linden Community Center – Cooking 101
This program provides youth with hands-on cooking experiences, teaching essential life skills, nutrition, and confidence in the kitchen. - Tuttle Park Community Center – Glass Fusing Supplies
Funding will enhance arts programming by providing materials for glass fusing projects, engaging participants in creative, skill-building activities. - Dodge Community Center – Dodge Community Garden
This initiative expands a community garden that provides fresh food access, nutrition education, and hands-on learning opportunities for residents and youth. - Westgate Community Center – Westgate Children’s Theatre
Support for production costs will bring youth theatre programming to life, fostering creativity, confidence, and community engagement.
“This is truly a long time coming for the Foundation,” said Brian Pauquette, Columbus Recreation and Parks Foundation Board Director. “We’ve evolved in a way that allows us to directly invest in our community centers and the work they do every day. These grants represent an important step in deepening our impact and supporting the neighborhoods we serve.”
The Pillar Grant Program underscores the Foundation’s commitment to ensuring every community center has the resources needed to thrive—supporting innovative ideas, strengthening operations, and creating meaningful opportunities for residents of all ages.
To learn more about the Pillar Grant Program and future funding opportunities, visit:
https://www.crpfoundation.org/pillar-grant/