All Ages Recreation Downtown Recognized with $25,000 Grant

In celebration of our 25th Anniversary, the Community Foundation awarded a special $25,000 Silver Anniversary Grant to All Ages Recreation Downtown (AARD) for the work it is doing to bring recreation to downtown Lafayette, for residents and visitors of all ages and abilities, at no-cost.Downtown Lafayette has the highest density, lowest income and greatest diversity within Lafayette, yet has the least access to recreation within walking distance. AARD is dedicated to two goals:

Short term, AARD brings recreation activities approximately twice each month to downtown locations and events. Year to date, AARD has co-hosted 30 events that brought free fun and games to more than 6,225 people of all ages.

Long term, AARD raises funds for parks and recreation destinations in and near downtown Lafayette. AARD’s first two park projects are located in the City-owned Gazebo Lot along the creek on Mt. Diablo Blvd and the Leigh Creekside Park.

AARD must raise $50,000 this year to qualify for matching funds from the City of Lafayette. The Community Foundation’s Silver Anniversary Grant brings AARD within $8,000 of its goal. All Lafayette residents and businesses benefit from enhancing the vibrancy of our downtown area.

For a complete list of the 2024 Excellence Grants recipients, please click HERE.