INCLINE VILLAGE, Nev. — For 18 years, the Parasol Tahoe Community Foundation has been connecting people who care deeply about the Tahoe region with causes to support their passions to make our community a better place to live, work and play.

Donors are making a difference in social services, community support, environment, education and arts, culture and heritage.

For example, students at Sierra Nevada College are benefiting from new programs inside the Holman Arts and Media Center, located at 1008 Lake Tahoe Boulevard.

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The building was purchased and donated through the Holman Family Philanthropies Fund at Parasol.

Another example involves Parasol’s donors providing grants to the state-of-the-art technology program at the Lake Tahoe School.

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“Students that emerge from LTS will be well-prepared to enter the best STEM or technology programs offered not only in Placer and Washoe counties, but the entire country,” said Ruth Glass, headmaster.

COMMUNITY LEADER

As the Tahoe region’s philanthropic center, Parasol is a community leader on regional issues and a catalyst for effective nonprofit collaboration.

Parasol also offers community support through forums and presentations that address the Tahoe region’s most pressing issues.

The annual “Current Thoughts on the Economy” forum provides insight into our local, state, national and worldwide economic issues as it brings the community together to learn more from local entrepreneurs in the financial world.

At the heart of promoting regional sustainability is the Tahoe Prosperity Center, located in the Donald W. Reynolds Community Non-Profit Center.

It operates as a regional collaborative working to create opportunities for future economic development and job growth in the Tahoe region.

The organization is uniquely positioned to work with public and private sector partners, businesses and community members to encourage healthy and sustainable communities.

The center’s current projects include developing a robust broadband infrastructure, updating outdated economic data and facilitating working groups to move forward economic development and scientific innovation.

COMMUNITY SUCCESS

For the past 13 years, Parasol has secured federal funding to benefit our community through the Parasol AmeriCorps Program.

Members serve at local Host Site organizations focusing on education, social services, public safety and environment.

“The AmeriCorps Members at Incline Elementary School provided a creative spark and energy to the school which results in student enrichment and engagement, unique programs and events and quality teacher support,” said Eric Harssema, third grade teacher at Incline Elementary School. “The after-school clubs, special events, field trips, hands-on lessons and community outreach that Parasol’s AmeriCorps lead sets our school apart from most.”

Of course, the most recognizable or visible community asset is the Donald W. Reynolds Community Non-Profit Center. Since opening in 2002, Parasol has granted local nonprofit organizations office space, storage space and meeting room space.

The DWR Center is a gathering place for community activities and functions. Visitors and community members can purchase tickets in the building to attend a Shakespeare play or a SummerFest Concert. It is also where the local food pantry, Project MANA, is located and counseling services are available from agencies located inside the DWR Center.

The Parasol Tahoe Community Foundation’s assets now stand at $63 million. To celebrate continued success, and to the thank the community, the organization is hosting its annual open house, from 4:30-7 p.m. on Thursday, June 26, at the DWR Center. Learn more at parasol.org.

Jean Eick is the communications manager for the Parasol Tahoe Community Foundation.