Borrego Springs, CA — March 20, 2026 — The Borrego Valley Endowment Fund (BVEF) announced its 2026 Spring Grant Awards, distributing $178,000 across a record 18 grants to 15 nonprofit organizations supporting both essential healthcare services and broader community initiatives throughout Borrego Springs.
This year marks the highest number of grants ever awarded by BVEF, reflecting both the growing needs of the community and the organization’s expanding ability to support a wider range of programs.
“Healthcare has always been at the core of BVEF’s mission,” said Anna Abatzoglou, Executive Director of BVEF. “But over time, it’s become clear that a healthy, resilient community needs more. It needs strong schools, access to the arts, economic opportunity, and a deep connection to place.”
Two Grant Areas, One Community Vision
BVEF’s Spring Grants are divided into two focus areas:
Healthcare Grants — $125,000
Supporting essential services that directly impact the wellbeing of Borrego Springs residents — including food access, caregiver support, transportation to medical care, and senior services. These grants are made possible through BVEF’s Healthcare Endowment, which provides sustained, long-term investment in the programs and services residents rely on every day
Notable awards include:
- $35,000 to Borrego Ministers Association for food access programs
- $23,000 to DAP Health to explore improving clinic accessibility
- $20,000 to BASIC supporting youth education and nutrition
- $10,000 to Meals on Wheels San Diego County for meal delivery and wellness checks
These grants ensure that residents — especially seniors, families, and vulnerable populations — have access to the care and support they need.
Community Grants — $53,000
Funded through BVEF’s growing Community Endowment, these grants support programs that enrich daily life in Borrego Springs.
The Community Endowment was catalyzed by the 2023 donation of The Center by Jim and Anne Wermers, and continues to grow through donor support.
Community Grants fund projects such as:
- Environmental education and youth programs
- Arts and cultural initiatives
- Public space improvements
- Community storytelling and heritage preservation
Highlights include:
- $10,000 to Borrego Springs Film Institute for free community screenings
- $8,000 to Borrego Art Institute for a solar project supporting sustainability
- $5,000 to Christmas Circle Community Park for infrastructure improvements
- $5,000 to Borrego Springs Performing Arts Center for lobby renovations
A Community Celebration
The awards were presented at a luncheon attended by nonprofit leaders, board members, and community supporters. Representatives from each organization received grant awards and gathered for a group photo celebrating the collective impact of their work.
The event also included recognition of longtime BVEF Bookkeeper and Property Manager, Susan Percival, who was honored for her years of service to the organization and the community.
Looking Ahead
With both its Healthcare and Community Endowments growing, BVEF is positioned to expand its impact in the years ahead.
Community members are invited to support this work by contributing to BVEF’s funds, helping ensure that even more organizations and initiatives can be supported in future grant cycles.