Columbus, OH (March 19, 2015)—The Columbus Foundation, the trusted philanthropic advisor® to more than 2,000 donors, today announced its 5 Nonprofits to Watch, recognizing innovative nonprofits poised for an exceptional year of growth and progress in 2015.
The organizations selected for 2015 are: Boys & Girls Clubs of Columbus, Charitable Pharmacy of Central Ohio, Columbus Museum of Art, Reeb Community Center, and St. Vincent Family Center.
“Each of these organizations is doing exceptional work to strengthen our community,” said Douglas F. Kridler, president and CEO of The Columbus Foundation. “Through inventive and thoughtful programs and services, they are positively impacting residents of all ages. We are proud to recognize them and look forward to what the future holds.”
More about the 5 Nonprofits to Watch in 2015:
Boys & Girls Clubs of Columbus: Having operated with two clubs for decades, one in Milo-Grogan and one in Franklinton, this nonprofit is expanding to serve youth in additional neighborhoods—Weinland Park, the Southern Gateway through the Reeb Community Center, and the Near East Side. When fully operational, this expansion will allow the number of youth served to double—from 2,000 to 4,000.
Charitable Pharmacy of Central Ohio: Celebrating its fifth anniversary this year, the Charitable Pharmacy provides free medications to anyone living below 200 percent of the poverty level who does not have prescription insurance coverage. The pharmacy serves nearly 2,000 patients annually by providing more than 57,000 prescriptions that are valued at $4 million.
Columbus Museum of Art: By fall 2015, there will be a new 50,000-square-foot wing at Columbus’ art museum. The new space will expand the special events area, increase exhibit space, incorporate a new restaurant and store, and feature a new sculpture garden and entryway. In 1931, when the museum owned 500 pieces of art, it had 10 gallery spaces. Today, the collection numbers more than 10,000 with the same 10 gallery spaces—until the new wing expands its exhibit space.
Reeb Community Center: This new community center will open by the start of the 2015–2016 academic year, bringing a wide range of services to the South Side neighborhood. A diverse group of donors has been instrumental in the creation of the center, including founders and board members Jane Abell, Tanny Crane, Don and Nancy Kelley, and Jim Williams. As a one-stop shop, services will be provided through partner organizations, including South Side Learning & Development Center, Boys & Girls Clubs of Columbus, Godman Guild Association, St. Stephen’s Community House, Central Ohio Workforce Investment Corporation, Mid-Ohio Foodbank, Community Development for All People, and Lutheran Social Services.
St. Vincent Family Center: This residential and outpatient children’s mental health agency is expanding to better serve the community. Breaking ground last summer, the $5 million capital campaign supports a new, 21,000-square-foot wing. The space will open in fall 2015, allowing for an additional 100 children to be served and reducing or eliminating the waiting list.
In 2014, 5 Nonprofits to Watch debuted as an annual program of The Columbus Foundation, and honors a group of remarkable nonprofit organizations working hard to make Columbus a better place for all. Last year’s honorees were Community Shelter Board, Lower Lights Christian Health Center, Greater Columbus Arts Council (GCAC), LifeCare Alliance, and Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC). The selection of 5 Nonprofits to Watch is based on research and analysis by the Foundation’s Community Research and Grants Management Department.
About The Columbus Foundation
The Columbus Foundation is the trusted philanthropic advisor® to more than 2,000 individuals, families, businesses, and communities that have created unique funds to make a difference in the lives of others through the most effective philanthropy possible. Serving the region for 70 years, The Columbus Foundation is the seventh largest community foundation in the United States. The Foundation’s online giving marketplace, PowerPhilanthropy®, makes it possible for everyone to access valuable information about nonprofit organizations in central Ohio.