THE DALLES — Google is announcing more than $100,000 in grants to help preserve a historic national landmark in The Dalles and to organizations supporting STEM education across Wasco County. The grants are part of an annual community grant program which Google offers each year exclusively to communities where the company operates data centers.
“Year after year, we see more organizations in Wasco County working to create positive change,” said Kate Franko, Google’s regional head of data center public affairs. “It’s our privilege to amplify their efforts and provide more resources to help build a stronger community for everyone.”
Google’s 2023 community grants go to three different organizations in the Gorge.
Google will provide $50,000 to The Dalles Civic Auditorium to install new permanent sound and lighting systems and new balcony seating. In addition to hosting concerts, theater productions and community events, The Dalles Civic Auditorium hosts theater classes, workshops and summer camps for children. The grant supports a years-long community effort to maintain the historic auditorium which has served The Dalles for more than 100 years.
“Over the last few decades, our community has put so much work into preserving this key community space,” said Jenny Jenkins, a member of The Dalles Civic Auditorium Board of Directors. “This funding will help us make sure the facility continues to bring the benefits of the arts to future generations.”
Additionally, Google is contributing nearly $50,000 to the Columbia Gorge STEM Hub which aims to build a regional network of schools, educators, nonprofits, and business partners working to ensure that all learners have access to STEM education. The grant will provide kits for the hub’s K-5 STEM after-school program for students in Wasco County, which are designed to foster students’ problem-solving skills and offer more hands-on experience.
Google is also supporting the Oregon State University Extension STEM program and its work with Wasco County 4-H. The grant will expand an existing mobile computer lab and purchase new tools to teach students about renewable energy such as wind and solar. The funds will also support a tech camp that specializes in mental health support for students and LGBTQ+ youth.
Google has supported organizations in The Dalles since 2006, when it opened its very first U.S. data center. Over the years, Google has invested more than $1.8 billion in the region and has provided more than $2 million to Wasco County schools and nonprofits. Google’s community grants program supports organizations and initiatives focusing on education, sustainability, internet and technology access, economic growth, health and science and the arts.
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