Deerfield Beach, Fla. - The Jim Moran Foundation (The Foundation) has awarded its second annual set of grants totaling $36,900 to three Florida non-profit organizations actively working to help children and families in the state of Florida. Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, Jubilate, and Shoshannah Arts received funding for targeted programming that fits within The Foundation's mission "to improve the quality of life for the youth and families of Florida through the support of innovative programs and opportunities that meet the ever-changing needs of the community."
"The three programs selected for funding in 2002 are innovative, positive programs that serve the young people and families of Florida," said Foundation Chairman and President Jan Moran. "The Foundation is privileged to partner with dynamic organizations and community leaders who are making such a great impact in Florida."
The Foundation's $12,500 grant to Busch Wildlife Sanctuary is aimed at expanding the group's educational services, which intertwines literacy programs with animal care and environmental education. The center, located in Jupiter, rescues sick, injured or orphaned wild animals - returning them to the wild whenever possible. Through its literacy programs, the Sanctuary stimulates learning and reading by providing youngsters with outdoor introductions to injured animals with related books and activity guides for at-home interaction and conservation, as well as workshops for bird watching, insect collecting and plant collection.
Jubilate, a Miami-based music organization established to perform and teach the neglected art forms of the African Diaspora as expressed by African, Latin and Caribbean Americans, will use its $10,000 grant to provide transportation to students who might otherwise be unable to attend classes. Jubilate focuses on serving at-risk and disadvantaged youth with its music education, performances, workshops and apprentice opportunities. Students accepted into the Jubilate program must exhibit exceptional musical talent and abilities, although many have never received quality, professional training. Through Jubilate, these young musicians are able to refine their talents and prepare for a professional career in music.
Funding of $14,400 from The Foundation will support Jacksonville's Shoshannah Arts program, providing scholarships to financially limited students who desire to learn more about the arts. Children of all talents and abilities are invited to participate in Shoshannah's visual arts, dance, drama and music programs, all designed to foster creativity, an appreciation for these cultural outlets, and self-esteem to allow them to pursue their dreams in whatever field they choose.
The Jim Moran Foundation (www.jimmoranfoundation.org ) is a non-profit charitable organization, 501(c)(3). Significant funding for The Foundation is provided through a cooperative giving commitment with JM Family Enterprises, Inc. The company's namesake, Honorary Chairman Jim Moran established The Foundation in 2000 to continue his vision of charitable giving in perpetuity. For more information about The Foundation's grant-making guidelines, visit its Web site or call 954-429-2122.
A $7.8 billion diversified automotive company, JM Family Enterprises, Inc. (www.jmfamily.com ) is ranked by Forbes as the 13th largest privately held company in the U.S. In January 2003, the company was ranked by a survey in FORTUNE magazine as the 14th Best Company to Work for in America. Its flagship company, Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC is the nation's largest franchised distributor of Toyota vehicles.