The Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts is pleased to announce the awarding of $82,310 in grants to eleven local nonprofit organizations through its Environmental Preservation and Animal Welfare Fund.

This annual grant program supports efforts that preserve and enhance the region’s natural beauty while promoting the well-being of domestic animals. The 2025 grantees reflect the diversity and dedication of local organizations working to make a difference through initiatives such as land conservation, trail restoration, environmental education, and animal health programs.

“Caring for our environment and animals goes hand in hand with caring for each other. These grants help us support that mission and create a better future for all,” said Stephen J. Adams, President of the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts.

A full list of this year’s grant recipients and funded projects is included below.

Ashby Free Public Library
Wetland Wonders: Explore and Learn in Ashby's Hidden Gems
$3,000.00

CMDART (Central Mass Disaster Animal Response Team)
Operation Equip
$5,000.00

Fitchburg Trail Stewards / Fitchburg Greenway Committee
Jewell Hill Trail Boardwalk and Trail Signs, Fitchburg
$9,500.00

Mount Grace Land Conservation Trust
Marchmont Forest Project
$11,400.00

Mount Wachusett Community College Foundation, Inc.
Equity in Summer Adventures
$8,070.00

NewVue Communities
NewVue Environmental Steward Program
$5,000.00

North County Land Trust, Inc.
Supporting a Local Effort to Protect Headwaters of the Ware River
$6,305.00

Robert F Kennedy Community Alliance
Rein in a Dream (RIAD)
$5,000.00

Second Chance Animal Services
Pet vaccine clinics for pet owners experiencing barriers to affordable vet care in the CFNCM region.
$13,175.00

Town of Ashburnham Recreation Committee
Completion of Willard to Cashman Hill Ashburnham Rail Trail Segment
$5,860.00

Western Massachusetts Climbers Coalition
Farley Ledge Conservation Initiative
$10,000.00