Foundation grants awards in March

Community grants from the Little Falls-based Initiative Foundation were awarded to three area projects.

-- Central Lakes College, Brainerd, punch press operator leader work skills assessment, $7,250 to conduct a skills assessment of employees in the metal forming industry and determine training needs.

-- City of Garrison, Garrison Community Park, $2,500 to underwrite equipment shipping costs for a children's playground.

-- City of Little Falls, Phase II Environmental Assessment, $10,000 to develop a clean-up plan for the former Hennepin Paper Co. site.

Nine community grants were awarded in March, totaling $61,650. The foundation seeks projects that strengthen central Minnesota communities and address barriers to economic development. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis and are generally reviewed within 90 days of receipt.

For more information, contact the foundation toll-free at (877) 632-9255, or go online to www.ifound.org.