Westfield, NJ – May 2025 — As The Westfield Foundation marks its 50th anniversary, the organization is proud to announce the recipients of its Golden Impact Grants—an initiative that reflects five decades of commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive community through strategic philanthropy.
“It’s truly an honor to celebrate 50 years of service, partnership, and impact,” said Katie Darcy, Executive Director of The Westfield Foundation. “When the Foundation was established in 1975, it began with just $2,000 and a shared belief in building a better future through philanthropy. Today, we distribute over $1 million annually, thanks to the vision and generosity of the very community we serve.”
The Golden Impact Grants were created to mark this milestone by amplifying the Foundation’s investment in Westfield—the place where it all began. This special initiative invited a select group of local organizations to submit proposals for bold, visionary projects that address urgent community needs and will leave a lasting legacy.
“Looking back, I’m incredibly proud of how the Foundation has evolved—from a small community fund to a trusted philanthropic partner investing in education, the arts, community development, and health and social services,” said Darcy. “These investments have empowered students, strengthened nonprofits, and addressed critical needs in the community with both compassion and intent.”
The Golden Impact Grants are rooted in the Foundation’s reaffirmed mission: to foster positive change and enrich lives through thoughtful, strategic investments. These grants reflect not only the Foundation’s impact over the past 50 years, but also its vision for the future—leveraging its strength and reach to forge new partnerships and meet emerging needs.
Golden Impact Grant Recipients:
The Foundation for Sustainable Housing ($100,000) This project will help to transform Westfield’s American Legion Post 3 into stable, permanent housing for 22 at-risk or unhoused veterans in Union County. In addition to safe shelter, the site will offer on-site counseling, job placement services, and a community banquet hall to foster connection, dignity, and long-term sustainability. This initiative exemplifies The Westfield Foundation’s mission by addressing a critical community need with compassion, strategic investment, and a deep commitment to strengthening lives and building a more inclusive future.
Project Playground ($75,000) As an anchor donor to this initiative, The Westfield Foundation has played a crucial role in transforming six elementary schools into adaptive and thoughtful play areas for all. This specific phase will bring accessible, inclusive play equipment to Washington, McKinley, and Wilson Elementary Schools—impacting 1,000 students and removing barriers to play. It exemplifies the Foundation’s strategic focus on education and whole-child development while building community spaces that reflect equity and belonging.
Westfield Arts Collective – Center for Creativity @ The Rialto ($100,000) The Westfield Foundation is proud to award a $100,000 Golden Impact Grant to the Westfield Arts Collective to support the launch of the Center for Creativity @ The Rialto—a bold initiative to reimagine the historic Rialto Theater as a dynamic community hub for arts education, creative expression, and civic connection. The project reflects the Foundation’s commitment to transformative, community-centered investment in the arts and aligns with its vision for a more connected, vibrant, and inclusive Westfield.
Westfield Memorial Library ($100,000) This grant will support the Library’s launch of a state-of-the-art public makerspace offering free, hands-on access to cutting-edge tools and technology—such as 3D printers, robotics kits, coding platforms, and design software. Open to residents of all ages, the space will spark creativity, foster innovation, and support STEM learning in an inclusive, community-centered environment. From students and educators to entrepreneurs and lifelong learners, this initiative advances the Foundation’s commitment to education, access, and forward-thinking solutions that empower individuals and strengthen the community.
Westfield Volunteer Rescue Squad ($125,000) As Westfield continues to grow, so does the demand for faster, more modern, and reliable emergency response. This fully volunteer-run, donation-funded EMS provider will use the grant to purchase a new ambulance and expand its crew capacity—ensuring timely, high-quality care for over 30,000 residents and countless visitors. The investment reflects the Foundation’s unwavering commitment to public health, safety, and community strength—core pillars of its long-term vision for impact.
“These projects are more than just significant investments—they’re a reflection of our roots and a bold step toward our future,” said Bob John, President of The Westfield Foundation.
About The Westfield Foundation
Founded in 1975, The Westfield Foundation is a nonprofit community foundation dedicated to supporting organizations that drive positive change and elevate Westfield, NJ, and its surrounding areas. Through strategic investments in education, the arts, community development, and health and social services, the Foundation serves as a catalyst for lasting impact and a trusted steward of local philanthropy.