The Peabody Community Foundation is offering grants for local nonprofit groups or individuals interested in putting together a project that will enhance the Peabody Community.

In 2012, grants were awarded to Peabody Senior Center, Peabody Township Library, Peabody-Burns Recreation Commission, The HUB, USD 398 After School Adventures Program, USD 398 Adventure Club, USD 398 Safe Kids Camp, and Prairie Lawn Cemetery.

The PCF encourages local charitable groups to apply for the next round of grants. Applications are available at Peabody State Bank and City of Peabody office. Applications are due to Brad Nightengale at the Peabody State Bank, no later than the end of business on Jan. 23.

The Peabody Community Foundation has grown during the past four years. The Foundation’s Endowment Funds have increased to $575,000, of which $100,000 is endowed for the unrestricted grants. If the Foundation meets its challenge matches and the community continues to contribute, the endowment fund may reach $650,000 in assets by 2013, making available additional funding for grants.

The Peabody Community Foundation will have up to $5,000 available for grant projects in 2013. That group of grant awards will be announced at the annual “Ground Hog Day” pancake feed in February.

The Peabody Community Foundation was founded to promote and enhance the Peabody community. The Foundation is set up as a non-profit organization that provides a place for individuals and families to give charitably to the community to enhance the community’s “Quality of Life.”

This is the mission of the Peabody Community Foundation and anyone can be a partner in the endeavor through their support and contributions.

This year’s board members are Lynn Berns, Sharlene Brooks, Marilyn Cox, Ann Leppke, Brad Nightengale, Nelson Patton, Barry Peter, Jim Preheim, and Lewis Unruh, with Chuck Good as treasurer. Questions about the foundation or the grant may be directed to any board member for more information.