WESTFIELD — On Wednesday evening, The Westfield Foundation celebrated 50 years of giving to the Westfield community by giving away $500,000 in Golden Impact Grant Awards to five area nonprofits.

Started by a handful of residents in 1975 with just $200, The Foundation has grown into an organization that now gives away $1 million each year.

Drawing a parallel to the organization’s tree logo, Executive Director Katie Darcy told the crowd at Echo Lake Country Club that The Foundation is “rooted in the past, evolving in the present and reaching to the future.”

Foundation President Bob John said, “We realize that the road ahead looks challenging to our not-for-profit partners.”

Past President Rupa Motwani echoed similar sentiments, noting that The Foundation is “leaning in” to assist nonprofits during a time in which government grant funding is being cut.

The Golden Grant recipients include: the Westfield Volunteer Rescue Squad, for $125,000 to go towards the purchase of a new ambulance; the Westfield Memorial Library ($100,000), to launch a public “makerspace” to support STEM learning; the Foundation for Sustainable Housing ($100,000), which has already broken ground on a new facility at the American Legion to house 22 veterans; Project Playground ($75,000), to bring inclusive play equipment to Washington, McKinley and Wilson Elementary Schools in Westfield; and the Westfield Arts Collective ($100,000), to support the launch of the Center for Creativity at The Rialto.

“These projects are more than just significant investments — they’re a reflection of our roots and a bold step toward our future,” said Mr. John.

“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 Ms. Darcy in a press release. “These investments have empowered students, strengthened nonprofits, and addressed critical needs with both compassion and intent.”

In addition to grants, The Foundation serves as a fiduciary to manage scholarship funds and endowments.

Grant applications by nonprofits are reviewed quarterly by The Foundation Board and cannot be used to fund salaries or to cover rent or other overhead costs. More information on grants can be found at https://thewestfieldfoundation.org/ grants/. To make a donation, visit https://givebutter.com/QLMEzw or call (908) 233-9787.