Callahan Announces Fall 2024 Grant Recipients, Capping a Record $2.9 Million in Total Annual Funding

The Callahan Foundation is pleased to announce it has awarded $870,500 to 36 Northeast Ohio nonprofits and initiatives in its Fall 2024 grant cycle, doubling last season’s total. Highlights include awarding:

• $250,000 to the Cleveland Orchestra for their annual find challenge match

• $125,000 to University Circle Inc. for renovations of  office on Magnolia Drive

• $50,000 to Case Western Reserve University for a scholarship fund for Masters of Public Health students

• $8,000 to the Cleveland Institute of Music for the renovation of Kulas Hall

Total 2024 grants amounted to $2.9 million, marking the largest funding year in the foundation’s history. Each of the organizations were chosen for advancing the Callahan Foundation’s mission by creating value for those in need through programs in higher education, the arts, and social services, and demonstrating superior leadership.

Fall 2024 grant recipients include:

The Cleveland Orchestra: The Cleveland Orchestra’s mission is to inspire and enrich lives by creating extraordinary musical experiences at the highest level of artistic excellence. The Orchestra reaches over 560,000 people annually with concerts at the Severance and Blossom Music Centers, a residency in South Florida and international touring, PreK-12 education programs, holiday and family concerts, free community concerts, its digital streaming platform, Adella, recordings, and radio broadcasts. Funding will support the Orchestra’s

operations and programming during its upcoming  season as it advances its legacy of superb artistry, outstanding education and community engagement programs, while successfully rebuilding audiences to pre-pandemic levels. The organization was awarded $250,000.

The Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation: The Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation (BPACF) is committed to creating opportunities for African American professionals through scholarships, leadership, and career development. Serving students and professionals in Northeast Ohio, BPACF’s Emerging Professionals Programs provide essential support such as mentorship, internships, and academic assistance. The organization serves 150-200 students annually, empowering them through programs like the Scholars Program, Career Connect Internship Program, and College to Career Series. These initiatives aim to bridge the educational attainment gap and equip young African Americans with the tools to excel in their careers. The nonprofit was awarded $10,000.

Case Western Reserve University: Case Western Reserve University’s School of Medicine (SOM) is committed to advancing medical education and improving community health through its innovative curriculum and groundbreaking research. With over 8,900 faculty members and more than 3,500 students, the SOM strives to train the next generation of medical professionals while addressing health disparities in Northeast Ohio. The funding will establish a scholarship fund for the Master of Public Health (MPH) Program, which is dedicated to health equity and social determinants of health. The fund will honor the legacy of Dr. Scott Frank, the founder of the program, by supporting students from underrepresented communities. The nonprofit was awarded $50,000.

Child and Family Advocates of Cuyahoga County: Child and Family Advocates of Cuyahoga County (CFACC) is dedicated to advocating for children and youth in the foster care system in Cleveland and surrounding areas. Founded in 2016, CFACC trains and supports Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) who act as dedicated voices for children involved in the juvenile justice system. CFACC aims to recruit, train, and support 140 CASA volunteers in the 2024-2025 period, directly benefiting up to 200 children in the local foster care system. These volunteers conduct thorough investigations and provide essential recommendations to the Juvenile Court, contributing to improved outcomes for children in foster care. The nonprofit was awarded $10,000.

Cleveland International Film Festival: Cleveland International Film Festival (CIFF) is committed to fostering cultural understanding and social change through the power of film. At its 2024 festival, CIFF screened over 350 films from 60 countries and engaged more than 360 guest filmmakers, serving a total audience of over 70,000 both in-person and virtually. The funding will support CIFF’s strategic planning to ensure continued growth and sustainability of the festival and its programming. It will also assist in presenting the prestigious Roxanne T. Mueller Audience Choice Award for Best Film, which recognizes internationally acclaimed work. The nonprofit was awarded $30,000.

Cleveland Institute of Music: The Cleveland Institute of Music (CIM) is a prestigious music conservatory dedicated to providing exceptional education and training to the next generation of musicians. Founded in 1920, CIM offers a comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes both performance and academic excellence. The institute nurtures talent through personalized instruction, masterclasses with renowned artists, and numerous performance opportunities. CIM also engages with the community through concerts, outreach programs, and collaborations with local arts organizations. The funding will support the renovation of Kulas Hall. The institution was awarded $8,000.

Cleveland Clinic: Cleveland Clinic’s mission is to care for life, research for health, and educate those who serve, with a particular focus on improving the well-being of individuals in the Warrensville Heights area through its South Pointe Hospital (SPH) and the newly established Community Resource Center. The center, which addresses food insecurity and other social determinants of health, offers a variety of services including a food pantry, career development, financial literacy training, and educational workshops on healthy eating. The funding will enhance these efforts by supporting transportation, security, and expanding the center’s resources, as well as improving infrastructure for distributing over 12,000 lbs of food monthly. The goal is to improve access to critical services and foster long-term stability and health equity in the community. The nonprofit was awarded $125,000.

The Cleveland Museum of Art: The Cleveland Museum of Art (CMA) is committed to providing transformative experiences through art for the benefit of all. Serving diverse audiences locally and globally, CMA is dedicated to preserving its historic campus and grounds while creating spaces that foster learning and engagement. The grant will support the implementation of the Fine Arts Garden Schematic Design Plan, rehabilitating the iconic Fine Arts Garden and surrounding landscapes, improving accessibility and preserving its historic design. This project aligns with CMA’s mission to provide sustainable, inclusive spaces for the community. The nonprofit was awarded $50,000 as part of a 3-year, $150,000 total pledge.

College Now Greater Cleveland: College Now Greater Cleveland seeks to increase postsecondary educational attainment by providing college and career access services to over 38,000 students and adult learners annually. This funding will support College Now’s administrative leadership and the implementation of their 2024-2025 strategic plan. Their strategic priorities focus on increasing postsecondary completion, advancing organizational effectiveness, and advocating for the value of higher education. College Now’s efforts to support FAFSA completion and help students understand the long-term value of education directly impacts Cleveland’s students, with impressive results in college matriculation and retention. The nonprofit was awarded $10,000.

Cuyahoga County Public Library: Cuyahoga County Public Library’s mission is to empower individuals and communities by providing opportunities for all to read, learn, create, and connect. CCPL’s Student Success Programs aim to support over 1,000 K-8th grade students in need of academic assistance through targeted literacy and homework support. These programs include the 1-2-3 READ initiative, which helps 1st-3rd graders meet state reading standards, and the 1-2-3 BOOST program, which offers individualized support for Kindergarteners. The funding will help cover expenses such as staff salaries, supplies, and educational tools necessary for the library’s after-school and reading programs. The organization was awarded $10,000.

Disability Rights Ohio: Disability Rights Ohio (DRO) is committed to advocating for an equitable Ohio for all people with disabilities. Their special education advocacy program, which began in 2024, offers free self-advocacy support to families navigating the special education process across Ohio. Funding will allow DRO to continue supporting families by providing resources, educational materials, and advocacy training, particularly in counties like Cuyahoga, Lorain, and Summit. The program has already assisted over 60 families and aims to expand this impact significantly in the coming year. The nonprofit was awarded $5,000

Esperanza: Esperanza’s mission is to empower Northeast Ohio’s Hispanic/Latinx communities by equipping learners for educational attainment and lifelong success. Their Youth Programming focuses on supporting around 600 Hispanic students in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) to improve academic performance, graduation rates, and career readiness. The funding will support culturally competent educational services, including leadership programs, mentoring, and socioemotional learning, all provided in a bilingual setting. The nonprofit was awarded $7,500.

FrontLine Service: FrontLine Service’s mission is to end homelessness, prevent suicide, resolve behavioral health crises, and overcome trauma for those in need. Their Safe Havens program provides long-term supportive housing for adults with severe mental illness and chronic homelessness, offering personalized care in a safe, community-based environment. The funding will help maintain the program’s capacity and ensure the availability of essential services, such as life skills support and crisis intervention. The nonprofit was awarded $5,000.

Greater Cleveland Food Bank: The mission of the Greater Cleveland Food Bank (GCFB) is to ensure that everyone in their communities has the nutritious food they need every day. Serving a six-county area in Northeast Ohio, GCFB provides emergency food assistance and hunger relief programs for income-eligible individuals and families. The funding will support general operating expenses in GCFB’s ongoing efforts to combat hunger, especially as they work to increase accessibility to their programs and services. This includes expanding food distribution efforts, enhancing nutrition initiatives for children, seniors, and people with health challenges, and developing their Community Resource Center. The nonprofit was awarded $10,000.

Global Cleveland: Global Cleveland is dedicated to growing Northeast Ohio’s economy by welcoming and connecting international people to opportunities. The nonprofit aims to foster a more inclusive community by integrating immigrants and refugees into the region’s workforce. Funds will support Global Cleveland’s Welcoming Workforce Initiative, which works directly with local employers and international job seekers to fill employment gaps in high-demand industries. Through targeted programs such as resume support and job fairs, Global Cleveland has already helped 148 international job seekers secure employment opportunities. By focusing on both employer education and job seeker support, the initiative aims to make Cleveland the most welcoming region in the U.S. for international talent. The nonprofit was awarded $10,000

Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity: Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity: The mission of Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity is to bring people together to build homes, communities, and hope for those in need. Serving Cuyahoga and Lorain counties, Habitat helps individuals and families earning between 30-80% of the area median income (AMI) to become homeowners through its Affordable Homeownership Program. Funding will support construction costs, including materials, staff training, and subcontractor expenses, for building homes for families in need. The nonprofit was awarded $7,500.

Great Lakes Science Center: The mission of the Great Lakes Science Center is to make science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) come alive for children and families in Northeast Ohio. With a focus on engaging 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District, the funding will support STEM programming, including field trips and workshops aligned with Next Generation Science Standards. These hands-on experiences aim to introduce students to key concepts in water technology, electricity, and physics, helping to prepare them for success in the growing STEM workforce. The program also provides professional development for teachers, ensuring that they are equipped to teach critical STEM topics. The nonprofit was awarded $12,500

ICA-Art Conservation: ICA-Art Conservation (ICA) is dedicated to preserving human visual material culture—artistic, historic, scientific, and cultural—for the benefit of current and future generations. The organization provides conservation and preservation services to a wide range of objects across all cultures, time periods, and belief systems, entrusted to ICA by museums, archives, libraries, community organizations, and more. The funding for the lab will enable ICA to continue preserving cultural heritage and expand its capacity to serve the public by supporting two key areas: sales tax back payment and general operating support for its conservation lab. The nonprofit was awarded $50,000.

Ideastream Public Media: Ideastream Public Media’s mission is to illuminate the world around us as a trustworthy and dynamic multimedia source for Northeast Ohioans. The nonprofit serves approximately 3.6 million people across 22 counties, providing robust journalism, educational services, and entertainment through television, radio, and digital platforms. Funding will help support general operations, allowing Ideastream to continue fostering community engagement and bridging divides in a changing media landscape. The nonprofit was awarded $10,000.

Kinnect: Kinnect’s mission is to build and strengthen kinship connections and inclusive support networks for children, families, and youth involved with the public child welfare system in Ohio. The organization serves at-risk families and youth, including those in foster care, residential treatment facilities, or those at risk of entering the system. The funding will support the expansion of Kinnect’s programs, including the Kinnect to Family Program, Youth Centered Permanency Roundtable Program, and the Ohio Kinship and Adoption Navigator Program. These programs aim to provide resources and support for families in need, especially those with kinship caregivers and adoptive parents. The nonprofit was awarded $10,000.

LAND Studio: LAND studio is dedicated to creating places and connecting people through public art, sustainable building, and community-driven programming. With a focus on transforming Cleveland’s neighborhoods, LAND convenes a variety of stakeholders to create inclusive and equitable public spaces. The funding will support the launch of LAND’s 2025 strategic planning process, which includes developing a new vision for placemaking, community engagement, and equitable programming. The planning process will guide LAND’s next decade of growth and enhance its role in regional placemaking efforts. The nonprofit was awarded $5,000.

Malachi House: Malachi House’s mission is to provide medically supportive housing to individuals facing terminal illness, particularly those who are poor and unable to access traditional hospice care. The nonprofit serves those in the final stages of life, offering free housing and comprehensive care, including emotional, spiritual, and physical support. The funding will support the provision of services for terminally ill individuals who are poor and lack financial resources, allowing Malachi House to continue its critical role in the community. The nonprofit was awarded $10,000.

MetroHealth: MetroHealth’s mission is to lead the way to a healthier community through service, teaching, discovery, and teamwork. For over 180 years, MetroHealth has served as the county’s public safety-net health system, delivering approximately 3,000 babies each year. The funding will support MetroHealth’s Food as Medicine Clinic, which, in partnership with the Greater Cleveland Food Bank and CWRU School of Medicine, aims to study the impact of food insecurity and nutritional deficiencies during pregnancy. By providing medically tailored groceries to Medicaid-eligible pregnant patients, this program seeks to improve maternal and fetal health outcomes, including reducing preterm births and low birthweight babies. The nonprofit was awarded $10,000.

Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless: The mission of the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless (NEOCH) is to eliminate the root causes of homelessness while supporting the community through organizing, advocacy, education, and street outreach. NEOCH provides vital services to individuals experiencing homelessness in Greater Cleveland, including street outreach, housing assistance, and education on housing rights. The funding will support client-facing programs, including outreach to unsheltered individuals and housing clinics, as well as the development of the Identification Crisis Collaborative, which helps individuals obtain necessary identification documents. The nonprofit was awarded $7,500.

Passages: Passages’ Family Resiliency Program supports fathers in becoming positive presences in their children’s lives by addressing issues such as coparenting, parenting skills, workforce needs, child support, and community reintegration after incarceration. With over 20 years of service, this life skills program is grounded in the evidence-based On My Shoulders curriculum, which builds self-awareness, relationship skills, and mindful choices among fathers. The program also offers case management and job placement support, helping fathers overcome barriers like housing instability and legal issues. The funding will support the continuation and expansion of the Family Resiliency Program, empowering fathers to improve their lives and relationships. The nonprofit was awarded $5,000.

Peel Dem Layers Back: Peel Dem Layers Back (PDLB) is dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health in the Black community, particularly among Black men and boys. Through its COPE Dealer program, PDLB uses culturally relevant mental health education, integrating hip-hop and artistic expression to engage participants and build coping skills. The funding will support expanding the COPE Dealer program into two additional Cleveland high schools and provide training for 20 new facilitators. Since its founding, PDLB has reached over 200 high school students, equipping them with the tools needed to address mental health challenges. The nonprofit was awarded $5,000.

Seeds of Literacy: Seeds of Literacy provides free, personalized education to empower adults to thrive in the community. Last year, the organization served 1,672 adult learners, many of whom faced significant barriers such as low income, involvement with the criminal justice system, and housing instability. The funding will support the director of student success in helping students navigate career training and college enrollment, advancing their education and workforce opportunities. The nonprofit was awarded $7,500.

Stella Maris: Stella Maris provides comprehensive recovery services for individuals struggling with chemical dependency and mental health issues. The organization offers detox, outpatient treatment, and recovery housing programs that serve primarily low-income, justice-involved individuals, many of whom are homeless upon entry. The funding will support the recovery housing program, which is expanding with two new facilities, including a medication-assisted recovery home—the only one of its kind in Northeast Ohio. Stella Maris integrates services such as case management, family education, and vocational training to help residents achieve long-term sobriety and independence. The nonprofit was awarded $5,000.

Syatt: Syatt is dedicated to empowering Black and brown youth in Northeast Ohio through transformative nature experiences, fostering diversity in outdoor spaces. The organization’s Syatt Dives and U Matter Institute programs introduce youth to underwater exploration and conservation, while also engaging them in environmental action research. The funding will support the integration of these two programs, creating a mentorship pipeline between college and high school participants. Through this initiative, participants will enhance their leadership skills and develop a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. The nonprofit was awarded $10,000.

The Math Movement: The Math Movement builds community and expands educational opportunities by offering a 4-week summer camp for middle and high school students attending public schools in the greater Cleveland area. The camp provides an engaging, math-focused curriculum designed to make learning fun while building critical skills. The funding will support hiring high school near-peer mentors and instructors for the camp. These staff members help foster a supportive learning environment, where students can build confidence and academic skills. The Math Movement aims to bridge the educational gap and provide an enriching experience for underserved youth. The nonprofit was awarded $5,000.

The Sculpture Center: The Sculpture Center supports sculptors through creation, exhibition, and mentorship, providing vital resources and a platform for contemporary sculpture. The funding will support general operating expenses as the organization continues to enhance its exhibitions and community outreach. In 2023, The Sculpture Center moved to a new location in University Circle, doubling its exhibition space and increasing access to the arts. With a focus on engaging diverse audiences, the center has attracted over 95% first-time visitors and is committed to providing free access to exhibitions and educational programming. The nonprofit was awarded $12,500.

Trust for Public Land: Trust for Public Land (TPL) is dedicated to creating parks and protecting land to ensure healthy, livable communities for generations to come. With over 50 years of service in Ohio, TPL has worked to enhance access to parks and natural areas in communities that lack these essential resources. Funding will support community engagement and design work for an outdoor recreation space at Cleveland’s Kerruish Par, involving the creation of a public mountain bike trail and other park amenities that meet the needs of the Lee-Miles neighborhood. TPL is collaborating with the International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA) to update the original concept design and address safety concerns while enhancing park connectivity. The nonprofit was awarded $12,500.

Western Reserve Historical Society: Western Reserve Historical Society (WRHS) is dedicated to inspiring people to discover the American experience by exploring the tangible history of Northeast Ohio. With a focus on providing both place-based and online access to historical stories, WRHS engages diverse audiences through educational programs that align with Ohio’s Learning Standards. The funding will support Youth Entrepreneurship Education (YEE) for students in grades 4-7 at inner-ring school districts, as well as Region 3 Annual History Day activities for students in grades 6-12. The nonprofit was awarded $10,000.

Youth Opportunities Unlimited: Youth Opportunities Unlimited (Y.O.U.) is committed to preparing young people ages 14-24 from economically distressed communities to become self-sufficient, contributing members of Northeast Ohio’s workforce. Y.O.U. offers a variety of school- and community-based workforce programs to help youth develop social, emotional, and leadership skills while improving their career prospects. The funding will support the Jobs for Ohio’s Graduates (JOG) Program, which focuses on career development, employability, and leadership for high school students at risk of not graduating. In the 2024-2025 school year, Y.O.U. aims to serve over 500 students across ten high school sites. The nonprofit was awarded $5,000.

YMCA of Greater Cleveland: The YMCA of Greater Cleveland has been serving the community since 1854 with a mission to put Christian principles into practice through programs that promote a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. Y-Haven, a YMCA facility offering behavioral health treatment and housing for individuals suffering from substance use disorder (SUD), will benefit from funding for the commissioning of art to decorate three newly renovated residential floors. This project is part of a multi-phase renovation aimed at enhancing dignity, privacy, and community spaces for residents. The nonprofit was awarded $12,500.

YWCA Greater Cleveland: YWCA Greater Cleveland, founded in 1868, works to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. The organization improves the lives of young families and young adults who have experienced homelessness or who are at-risk, women who are homeless, and women and girls of color. Funding will support services, programs, and activities at its Independence Place/Nurturing Independence and Aspirations (IP/NIA) program. The nonprofit was awarded $12,500.

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