This month, the 1889 Foundation continues to invest in initiatives that expand access to education, strengthen youth support systems, and promote overall community wellbeing. From launching new opportunities for students through the Smart Start Promise Program to supporting collaborative efforts like the Safe Spaces initiative, these grants reflect a commitment to creating meaningful, lasting impact across Cambria and Somerset Counties. | |
Grants Awarded
The 1889 Foundation continues its commitment to expanding opportunity and strengthening communities across Cambria and Somerset Counties through strategic investments in education, youth development, and overall wellbeing.
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Pennsylvania Highlands Community College
Smart Start Promise Program
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The 1889 Foundation has approved a $100,000 grant to support the first year of the Smart Start Promise Program, a transformative pilot initiative designed to make higher education more accessible for recent Cambria County high school graduates.
Smart Start functions as a last dollar scholarship, covering tuition and comprehensive fees for up to 30 college credits during a student’s first year. By significantly reducing or eliminating the need for student loans, the program provides a critical foundation for long term academic success. Students are responsible for textbooks, supplies, and any course specific fees, and have the flexibility to pursue any approved degree or certificate program through in person or online coursework.
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The 1889 Foundation, in partnership with funding made possible through the efforts of Representative Jim Rigby, an additional $287,000 has been granted to support the Safe Spaces initiative from funding through the PA Department of Health and Human Services. The Safe Spaces Initiative is a coordinated, community driven effort focused on creating supportive and enriching environments for youth throughout the region. Each week, nearly 1,000 children and young adults, ranging in age from 5 to 25, take part in programming designed to meet a wide range of needs. These experiences extend beyond recreation, offering opportunities for personal growth, connection, and stability. Participants engage in physical activity, creative expression, shared meals, academic support, and structured mentorship, while also gaining access to mental health resources and workforce readiness skills. Community outings and events further encourage social engagement and positive peer interaction.
The initiative is powered by a coalition of local organizations and partners working together to provide consistent, meaningful opportunities for youth. Through this collaborative approach, Safe Spaces aims to equip young people in Cambria and Somerset Counties with the tools, support, and experiences needed to lead healthy, fulfilling, and productive lives.
| | | Safe Spaces Initiative with Ann Gustkey, Greater Johnstown YMCA | | |
This month, we are proud to highlight the Safe Spaces initiative and the leadership of Ann Gustkey in her role with the Greater Johnstown YMCA. Through her work, Ann plays a key role in helping create consistent, supportive environments where young people across Cambria and Somerset Counties can learn, grow, and thrive.
Safe Spaces is built on the idea that every child and young adult deserves access to positive opportunities and strong support systems. Under Ann’s leadership and in collaboration with a network of community partners, the initiative provides structured programming that extends far beyond traditional activities. Participants are given access to mentorship, wellness resources, skill building opportunities, and safe environments where they can build confidence and meaningful connections.
Ann’s dedication to youth development and community collaboration has helped shape Safe Spaces into a program that meets young people where they are while equipping them with the tools they need for long term success. Her work reflects a deep commitment to not only supporting individual growth, but also strengthening families and the broader community.
Ann shared “Our community thrives when every individual - especially our young people - feels safe, seen, and supported. At the Y, we are committed to fostering environments where youth can grow with confidence, build meaningful connections, and know they belong. By investing in their well-being today, we’re strengthening the future of our entire community for tomorrow. The Safe Space collaborative allows community organization's the ability to work together to support our young people, our future. Safe Spaces is so much more than any individual group, it will take all of us to create a safe, consistent and positive environment.”
Through leaders like Ann and initiatives like Safe Spaces, the 1889 Foundation continues to invest in programs that create lasting impact and help build a healthier, more connected region.
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