WORCESTER—Big checks don’t always come with built-in momentum, but a new $1 million initiative rolling out this month aims to do both: fund Worcester County nonprofits and nudge donors to chip in alongside them.
The Greater Worcester Community Foundation (GWCF) and the Esler Family Foundation announced this week the creation of the Inspiring Generosity Match Fund, a two-year grantmaking program designed to give local organizations flexible support while encouraging broader community giving.
According to the announcement, the Esler family has committed $1 million to the fund, which is hosted at GWCF as a donor-advised fund. Grants open to Worcester County nonprofit organizations and fiscally sponsored projects with annual revenues under $5 million. Awards will reach up to $25,000 and must be matched dollar-for-dollar by the grantee.
“The Esler Family Foundation is committed to strengthening communities by investing in organizations that create meaningful, lasting change,” John Esler, co-founder of the foundation, said in the release. “By partnering with the community foundation, we can combine our resources with their local expertise to help Worcester County nonprofits deepen their impact while inspiring more people to give.”
The program targets three areas: mental health, youth opportunity, and economic mobility. Pete Dunn, GWCF’s president and CEO, said in the announcement that the focus “is closely aligned with our own grantmaking priorities of health and wellbeing, youth development and economic opportunity.”
GWCF said the matching requirement is meant to help nonprofits expand donor engagement without adding unnecessary strain. Its Nonprofit Support Center offers a free fundraising workshop for award recipients shortly after grants are announced. Organizations have until Dec. 31, 2026 to raise the full match and additional coaching will be available.
Applications open Dec. 15, 2025, with a virtual orientation for interested nonprofits scheduled for Dec. 18 at 11 a.m. More information is available by visiting the Inspiring Generosity Match Fund.
