FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact:
Director of Donor Services, Casey Hu
Phone: 540-373-9292 x123
Fredericksburg, VA (July 28, 2025) — Amazon in collaboration with The Community Foundation, proudly announces the launch of the Amazon Rappahannock Region Community Fund, a bold $300,000 investment aimed at empowering nonprofits and community-based organizations across the region.
This new grant program is designed to support initiatives that drive transformation, inclusion, and resilience in Stafford, Spotsylvania, Caroline, and Louisa Counties. The fund will provide grants awarded in a range from $500 to $10,000 that will support nonprofit, grassroots initiatives, and community changemakers working to uplift the region through impactful, mission-driven projects.
“By joining forces with The Community Foundation, we’re supporting a vision where community-driven solutions can address the region’s unique needs,” said Lisa Schooley, Amazon Community Engagement Manager. “This partnership amplifies the voices of local changemakers who know firsthand what their neighborhoods need to build a more resilient future.”
“The Amazon Rappahannock Region Community Fund represents our shared commitment to building a future where innovation and inclusion thrive at the community level,” said Casey Hu, Director of Donor Services at The Community Foundation. “With Amazon’s partnership, we’re able to support local organizations whose work strengthens the fabric of our communities.”
Grants will be awarded to programs and projects that align with one or more of the following key focus areas:
- STEM Education: Enhancing science, technology, engineering, and math learning through hands-on classroom experiences, teacher development, and access to technology for all students.
- Sustainability & Environment: Supporting conservation, renewable energy, and environmental education that promote responsible stewardship and protect natural resources.
- Community Development: Advancing local infrastructure, economic development, and quality of life through programs such as workforce training, housing, and civic engagement.
- Digital Skills: Expanding digital literacy and workforce readiness with programs in coding, IT skills, and online learning tools.
- Cultural Heritage Preservation: Preserving and celebrating local history, cultural landmarks, and traditions through restoration, archival, and education efforts.
- Health & Wellbeing: Promoting physical and mental health through access to care, disease prevention, wellness education, and mental health services.
Amazon Rappahannock Region Community Fund will officially open for applications on August 18, 2025 and close on September 25, 2025, inviting eligible nonprofits across the region to apply. Following a comprehensive review and evaluation process by The Community Foundation and Amazon, grant recipients will be announced in December at a community-wide celebration event hosted by The Community Foundation and Amazon to recognize the awardees and highlight the innovative, impactful work being done throughout the region.
Nonprofit organizations and eligible groups are encouraged to visit https://www.cfrrr.org/apply/amazon-rappahannock-region-community-fund/ / to review grant guidelines, explore project examples, and begin the application process.
For additional assistance, applicants may contact Casey Hu, Director of Donor Services, at [email protected] or 540-373-9292 x123.
###
About the Community Foundation
The Community Foundation is a tax-exempt public charity committed to enhancing the quality of life for the more than 407,000 residents of Planning District 16, which includes the City of Fredericksburg and the counties of Caroline, King George, Spotsylvania, and Stafford. We serve individuals, families, businesses, and organizations united by a shared goal—strengthening our region through impactful philanthropy.
In 2025, the Community Foundation awarded more than $318,000 in scholarships, providing critical support for students pursuing higher education. We steward 219 named charitable funds, established by donors to support a wide array of causes. Last year alone, we distributed over $3.3 million in grants to nonprofits and community initiatives across the region.
With more than $60 million in assets under management, the Community Foundation maintains a strong financial position, ensuring responsible stewardship and long-term sustainability for the charitable funds entrusted to us. Our sound financial footing allows us to support the evolving needs of our community today and for generations to come.
For more information, please call (540) 373-9292, email [email protected] or visit www.cfrrr.org.