Southern Indiana Business November-December 2020 | Page 8

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The Caesars Foundation helped spark the rebirth of downtown New Albany by committing $ 20 million toward the YMCA-Scribner Place project .

Caesars Foundation continues tradition of giving back

In a time of uncertainty , the Caesars

Foundation of Floyd County continues to be a pillar in the community by supporting local businesses , nonprofits and charitable work .
This marks the 20th year of the Caesars Foundation ’ s philanthropic contributions . In 2000 , the organization announced its first grants and provided $ 500,000 for notfor-profits the following year .
In 2002 , the Caesars Foundation led a community effort that helped reshape downtown New Albany . The organization committed $ 20 million toward the construction of the downtown New Albany
YMCA-Scribner Place project . In
January of 2003 , Caesars Foundation provided the first annual $ 1 million gift toward the initiative and has continued its pledge as the facility has served as an anchor amidst the re-birth of downtown New Albany .
Jerry Finn , Executive director said , “ New Albany could be revitalized . It was the anchor that would bring over 1000 people each day to the downtown area , allowing confidence that boutiques , shops , and restaurants could thrive in the downtown .”
A scholarship program was initiated in 2002 which has provided over $ 8.4 million in scholarships for Floyd County graduates who go on to post-secondary education . The investment in the higher education of young people can have long lasting benefits for families needing encouragement .
In 2007 , the Caesars Foundation launched its Small Business Revolving Loan program in an effort to support Southern Indiana establishments . The first loan through the program was made in 2009 .
The Caesars Foundation just wrapped up its application process for its fall grant cycle . The grants range between $ 1,000 and $ 25,000 , and are awarded to charitable organizations , governmental agencies
8 November / December 2020