01-05-2025
ECGRA gives out nearly $200K to local organizations through Special Events Grants
The Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority (ECGRA) has announced it's giving out nearly $200,000 to its 2025 Special Events Grant recipients, and there are 44 organizations that will use the funding to ensure Erie's well-known activities flourish and grow.
Erie residents and visitors look forward to the region's summer months all year long.
The season includes several fairs, festivals and special events that promote a sense of community.
Many of these activities wouldn't be able to exist without a little financial boost, which is where ECGRA steps in.
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The authority is awarding nearly $200,000 to 44 organizations that arrange hundreds of events around the county.
'Special events create a sense of vibrancy in the community but they're also great leadership positions. The majority of these organizations are run by volunteers,' said Perry Wood, executive director of ECGRA.
The grants range from $425 all the way up to $15,000.
Two organizations that received the largest grants are Cafe for CelebrateErie and Lights Over Lake Erie, as well as the Jefferson Education Society for their programming and global summit.
Most of these special events are traditions for Erie residents, like the Italian Festival. This funding is one way to help keep their heritage alive.
'Everyone awarded today is helping to maintain the foundation of what it means to live in Erie,' said Brian Ferraro, with St. Paul Church's Italian Festival. 'Leading up to this year's festival on the 8, 9, and 10 of August, our community will come together and prepare for the celebration of the assumption of the Blessed Mother Mary.'
According to the authority, the special events grants fund up to 5% of events that take place within Erie County.
These events are open to the general public and promote the region economically and culturally.
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The funding also provides a variety of possibilities — Young Artist Debut Orchestra (YADO) will be able to participate in their organization's 16th annual Independence Day performance at the Erie SeaWolves.
'This event is considered a prime performance opportunity for any music performing arts group,' said Jessie Collura, executive director of YADO.
Wood said that some residents' most visceral memories are tied to Erie's events and festivals.
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