The FINANCIAL — Wells Fargo & Company announced 64 nonprofit recipients of its 2013 Environmental Solutions for Communities grant program.
Philanthropic grants totaling more than $3 million will be distributed to community-based nonprofits to support land and water conservation, energy efficiency, infrastructure, and educational outreach in communities where customers and team members live and work.
“We’re pleased to announce the environmental grant recipients of this highly competitive program,” said Ashley Grosh, head of Wells Fargo Environmental Philanthropy. “We’re proud to support these nonprofits who are working hard to provide long-term solutions to environmental challenges. It is our belief that there is a strong link between economic development, community well-being, and the stewardship and health of the environment.”
The Wells Fargo Environmental Solutions for Communities grant program began in 2012 as part of Wells Fargo’s commitment to provide $100 million to environmentally-focused nonprofits and universities by 2020. It is funded by the Wells Fargo Foundation and administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) through a $15 million, five-year relationship to promote environmental stewardship across the country.
“We sought out the best ideas and programs to protect and conserve the environment for local communities,” said Jeff Trandahl, executive director and CEO of NFWF. “ThroughWells Fargo’s generous contributions, these community-based projects will provide immediate benefits to local ecosystems and will help build and strengthen environmental stewardship ethics.”
The community and environmental impacts of all grants will be measured and reported. For example, in 2012, the Wells Fargo Environmental Solutions for Communities grant program collectively funded 8,621 acres of habitat restoration and 165,970 newly planted trees. The grants also helped reduce more than 2 million gallons of runoff water and an estimated 331,840 pounds in CO21. Projects that benefited underserved communities and encourage volunteerism were given priority consideration.
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