WORCESTER COUNTY—The Webster Five Foundation just dropped its largest quarterly round of charitable giving since it launched nearly 30 years ago—distributing $101,000 to 32 nonprofit organizations across Massachusetts, with the lion’s share of the funding staying right here in Worcester County.
In a milestone moment for the Auburn-based bank’s philanthropic arm, this second-quarter grant cycle shattered its own records for both total funds awarded and number of recipients.
“Through the Foundation, we’re able to celebrate and support the meaningful work happening all around us,” said Webster Five President and CEO Don Doyle in the announcement. “This grant cycle, the largest in our history, reflects our deep belief in community organizations and the impact they continue to make.”
Out of the 32 nonprofits selected, 29 are based in Worcester County—a nod to the Foundation’s longstanding focus on community investment where the bank’s footprint runs deepest. Grants support a wide swath of services and programs spanning education, culture, health, housing, youth development, and more.
Some of the recipients include:
- Family Health Center of Worcester – $10,000
- Rainbow Child Development Center – $6,000
- Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services – $8,000
- Dismas House and Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance – $5,000 each
- Dress for Success Worcester – $3,500
- EcoTarium, Crocodile River Music, and Reach Out and Read New England – all received support for arts and literacy efforts
Other grantees range from youth empowerment groups like Girls on the Run Worcester County to food access nonprofits like Mustard Seed Catholic Worker Community and Overlook Food Awareness Resource.
The Webster Five Foundation has awarded more than $4.3 million to over 300 organizations since its founding in 1996. The next wave of grants will be awarded in the third quarter of 2025.
