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GAR Awards Nearly $2.5 Million to 28 Akron-Area Nonprofits in August

ECRC SPARK Program
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GAR Foundation awarded nearly $2.5 million in grants to 28 Akron-area nonprofit organizations following its August distribution committee meeting. 

This quarter’s funding shines a spotlight on two investments in early childhood education programs that give Akron’s youngest learners the tools and support they need to enter school ready to succeed: Supporting Partnerships to Assure Ready Kids (SPARK) and Toddlers and Preschoolers Succeeding (TAPS).

Research shows that when a child enters kindergarten ready for school, there's an 82% chance they’ll master basic academic skills by age 11—compared with just 45% for those who aren’t ready. Additionally, children with parents who are engaged in their learning are more likely to have higher grades, attend school regularly, have better social skills, and graduate. SPARK and TAPS put these principles into action—preparing children academically and socially for kindergarten while equipping parents and caregivers to be active partners in learning—laying the groundwork for long-term success in school and beyond.

A student receives a SPARK lessonThe Early Childhood Resource Center (ECRC) received $150,000 in support of their delivery and management of SPARK in Akron. SPARK is a home visiting program for children ages 3 and 4 and their caregivers that’s delivered to more than 2,000 students across Ohio. The program helps parents understand how to support their child’s learning and kindergarten readiness in these crucial early years. In 2024, SPARK served 111 children in Akron, with 95% showing improved literacy scores and more than 90% of parents reporting stronger teaching strategies at home. In 2023, SPARK received a Best Practice designation from the Association of Maternal & Child Health Programs.

“We believe every child deserves to start school on equal footing, and our SPARK program is helping make that a reality in Akron,” said ECRC Executive Director Angela Moses. “SPARK is unique because it focuses both on the child and the family—working directly with preschoolers to build essential skills, while also partnering with parents to support learning at home. By giving children a strong start and closing the achievement gap early, we set them on a path to long-term academic success.”

TAPS, offered by Child Guidance & Family Solutions (CGFS), works inside childcare centers and preschools. The $100,000 investment in TAPS in Akron helps the program empower both children and teachers, equipping preschoolers with essential lifelong development skills such as problem-solving, resilience, and the ability to form friendships. Over the past year, TAPS served more than 1,100 Akron children in 20 childcare centers, helping them build skills to follow directions, communicate effectively, develop positive relationships, and feel confident in themselves.

TAPS programming photo

“The need for the TAPS program is more critical than ever,” said CGFS President and CEO Cassi Galloway. “Local preschools and daycares are experiencing a significant increase in behavioral issues, which contribute to higher preschool expulsion rates and also affect kindergarten readiness. Research indicates that the foundation established in early childhood is vital for future academic and life success. This initiative leads to brighter futures for our children."

GAR Foundation President Christine Amer Mayer emphasized that high-quality early childhood programs are essential to Greater Akron’s long-term health and prosperity:

“Programs like SPARK and TAPS don’t just prepare children for kindergarten—they set the stage for a lifetime of learning and success. When we give every child the opportunity to start school ready, we improve their odds of thriving in school, work, and life, and we strengthen the future of Greater Akron as a whole.”

GAR continues to support Akron-area nonprofits aimed at enhancing education; economic, workforce, and community development; arts and culture; and basic needs in the region. The Foundation is committed to helping Akron become smarter, stronger, and more vibrant.

Among some of the other grants awarded are the following: