Nearly a decade ago, a group of charitably-minded Ramona residents came together to help improve quality of life for local residents and address the emerging needs of the community.
Their vision sparked the creation of the Ramona Community Foundation (RCF), and every year since then its impact grows in the region.
On October 4, more than 60 community members, local leaders and partners gathered to celebrate the impact of Ramona Community Foundation at its 7th Annual Grants Celebration. The event marked a milestone in RCF history with the largest ever grant award amount of $46,000 benefitting 15 nonprofit organizations working to build a more vibrant Ramona community.
Empowering Older Adults
Among the many deserving grantees was Ramona Senior Center, an organization working to improve quality of life for seniors through nutrition, eliminating isolation, opportunities for social engagement and resources to ensure older adults can maintain their independence.
According to the U.S. Administration on Aging, between 2003 and 2013 the population age 60 and over increased 30.7 percent from about 48 million to almost 63 million. In San Diego County, the number of people 65 and over is expected to double by 2030.
Like The San Diego Foundation Age-Friendly Communities Program and its partners, the Ramona Senior Center works to actively engage the aging population, providing affordable, nutritionally-sound meals, transportation services, exercise programs, wellness education and socialization opportunities specifically tailored to seniors.
“The $5,000 grant will help us to serve a hot meal and perform wellness checks to about 135 home-bound clients throughout Ramona and the Back Country of San Diego County,” noted Lora Cicalo, Executive Director of the Ramona Senior Center. “We will also continue to serve meals to seniors on-site and provide a safe space for socializing.”
With the Ramona Senior Center grant, as well as the 14 others, RCF is investing in impactful and sustainable programs that create a healthier, vibrant and more inclusive Ramona.
Since 2009, RCF has supported the community by granting more than $200,000 to over 50 local nonprofits and built an endowment of more than $100,000 to benefit the community in perpetuity.
If you aren’t a member yet, the Regional Affiliate Program is the perfect way to become an active participant in your community’s health and growth, wherever you live.
