The Foundation for Rural Service (FRS), the philanthropic arm of NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association, is proud to announce the recipients of 36 Community Grants totaling nearly $170,000 — the largest number of grants and greatest total annual allocation in its history — to close out its 30th anniversary year. These grants will support a wide variety of projects aimed at improving quality of life across rural communities served by NTCA members.
Thanks to the generosity of donors, FRS was able to substantially increase support for community-based projects in 2024. Grant recipients will lead initiatives to advance their rural communities such as upgrading essential equipment for schools and libraries to support digital literacy and inclusion efforts, expanding STEM programs like esports and robotics and enhancing emergency services for first responders. NTCA members partnered with FRS in presenting every award, contributing 10% of the total grant amount. Additional gifts from CoBank, Pioneer Utility Resources, Farm Credit East and the Carri Bennet Economic Development Fund also contributed to grant awards this year.
“We are grateful and proud to have achieved a new record in our support for rural communities during this anniversary year,” said FRS Executive Director Pam Becker. “The work these organizations do in their communities is nothing short of inspiring, and it’s an honor to partner with NTCA members to help make these projects a reality. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate the 30th anniversary of FRS than to award the largest ever number of grants to deserving organizations served by NTCA members. I would like to thank our donors for making this possible.”
The FRS Community Grants Program is a cornerstone of the foundation’s efforts to enhance the economic, educational and social well-being of rural America. Through this year’s 36 awards, the foundation continues to expand its impact on community development, public safety, education and broadband access. A complete list of 2024 awardees is below:
Alexandria Fire District, Alexandria, S.D.
Partnering NTCA Member: TrioTel Communications, Inc.
Awarded $4,950 to provide automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to community churches and daycares.
Bemidji Fire Department, Bemidji, Minn.
Partnering NTCA Member: Paul Bunyan Communications
Awarded $4,830 to acquire protective gear for SWAT medics to ensure safety while providing critical medical assistance in high-risk situations.
Bunker Hill Public Library, Bunker Hill, Ill.
Partnering NTCA Member: Madison Communications
Awarded $4,200 to purchase an interactive table for the children's section at the Bunker Hill Public Library.
BYE Ambulance, Elmwood, Ill.
Partnering NTCA Member: Mid Century Fiber
Awarded $5,000 to purchase an emergency 9ll dispatch alarm system for Elmwood station, a portable radio, speakers and wiring to aid in receiving ambulance calls.
City of Palmer Public Library, Palmer, Alaska
Partnering NTCA Member: Matanuska Telecom Association, Inc.
Awarded $4,800 to fund four computer stations to promote adult technical literacy, job seeking efforts and senior technology adoption.
City of Robinson, Robinson, Kan.
Partnering NTCA Member: Rainbow Communications
Awarded $5,000 to upgrade and refurbish a local ballpark, providing a safe and welcoming place for residents to gather.
Clemson Rural Health, Clemson, S.C.
Partnering NTCA Member: West Carolina Rural Telephone Cooperative
Awarded $5,000 for new EKG and AED machines for the Clemson Rural Health Mobile Unit that provides primary care to community members.
Colton Middle School (Colton School District), Colton, Ore.
Partnering NTCA Member: COLTONTEL
Awarded $4,300 to make significant upgrades to the video production studio, which will support career-related opportunities for students at Colton Middle School.