The Community Trust Foundation (CTF) is dedicated to enhancing lives across Garrett, Allegany, and Mineral counties, awarding half a million dollars annually to nonprofits and deserving students. Rigorous grant reporting and active reviews ensure that funded projects achieve meaningful progress, uphold financial accountability, and deliver lasting impact. One recent review highlighted the transformative results of the Foundation’s investment in education and the arts at Garrett College.
A $200,000 grant was awarded to Garrett College’s Performing Arts Center (PAC) during its renovation and expansion, creating a community facility for the arts. This initiative underscores the Foundation’s dedication to fostering educational and cultural experiences that benefit the entire community. The grant was made possible through the generosity of the Naylor Family Fund at CTF, whose support continues to inspire and elevate opportunities for growth in the region.
Karen Myers, a CTF board member and trustee of Garrett College, described the impact of the PAC during her visit on April 26th: “My heart was warmed and nearly burst with pride when I pulled into the completely filled parking lot at the PAC. More than 430 students, ranging from elementary to high school, showcased their talents in honor band, chorus, theater, and dance in the state-of-the-art theater, with standing-room-only crowds. Additionally, a large arts show filled the Multi-purpose Conference Room, featuring hundreds of student artists from across Garrett County.”
These observations and the college’s grant report demonstrate that the PAC is achieving its mission to present diverse arts and educational programs for individuals of all ages, abilities, and cultural backgrounds. Beyond enriching students’ lives, the PAC brings continuing education and cultural enrichment to Garrett County and surrounding areas.
Karen added, “For our children and adults to have access to this incredible facility, so well-managed by the Garrett College staff, is beyond belief. It is a dream realized after more than 30 years and is truly a community treasure. The building is actively utilized, operating on a tight schedule to host activities for the school system, Garrett County Arts Council, Stage West, and other community organizations.”
In addition to its support of the PAC and the college’s Piano Studio, CTF has also provided annual grants for music-focused educational programs like the Mountain Maryland Music Institute, Music at Penn Alps K-12 Tutoring Program and Garrett Lakes Arts Festival. These investments exemplify CTF’s enduring commitment to enhancing educational and cultural opportunities for all.
Community Trust Foundation (CTF) is your local community foundation created with gifts from generous people committed to local causes. Through the support of its donors, the Foundation grants to local nonprofit organizations working to build a stronger community in the areas of Arts & Historical Preservation, Health & Wellness, Vibrant Communities & Thriving Environment, and Education & Youth Leadership. Connecting philanthropy with community good in Allegany, Garrett, and Mineral Counties.
Photo credit: DLR Group, Kevin G. Reeves Photographer