The Valley Community Association and Buffalo River Fest Park are made possible through the generosity of our Funders and Partners:

Meet Our Funders & Partners

<strong>NY State</strong>
NY StateVarious Departments
  • The New York State Canal Corporation
  • New York State Department of Education
  • New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
  • New York State Department of Health
  • New York State Department of State Coastal Resources
  • New York State Dormitory Authority
  • New York State Parks and Recreation and Historic Preservation
  • Former New York State Assembly Member – Mark Schroeder
  • Empire State Development
<strong>Buffalo Bills Youth Foundation</strong>
Buffalo Bills Youth Foundation
The Buffalo Bills Youth Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that supports
charitable organizations that emphasize improving the quality of life for youth in
Western New York.

<strong><br />
Buffalo and Erie County Greenway Fund Standing Committee</strong>

Buffalo and Erie County Greenway Fund Standing Committee
NYPA energizes New York with low-cost sustainable power, innovative grid solutions, and extensive energy services.
<strong>City of Buffalo Community Development Block Grant</strong>
City of Buffalo Community Development Block Grant
The Department of Environment and Planning collaborates with public and private sector organizations to improve the quality of life for Erie County residents. The Department delivers and supports programs and initiatives that spur economic growth, enhance environmental quality, provide recreational amenities, enhance social infrastructure, promote tourism, and attract and retain residents and businesses. All Department programs facilitate orderly development and redevelopment patterns that maximize opportunities for investment and choice and realize the wise expenditure of public funds.
<strong>Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo</strong>
Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo& The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds
The Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo is a 501(c)(3) public charity holding more than 800 different charitable funds, large and small, established by individuals, families, nonprofit organizations and businesses to benefit Western New York.
<strong>Erie County</strong>
Erie CountyVarious Departments
  • Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor
  • Erie County Youth Bureau
  • Erie County Department of Social Services
<strong>Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor</strong>
Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor
Explore the Erie Canal and discover the legendary waterway that shaped our nation. Nowhere else will you find the infamous low bridges and mighty locks of the NYS Canal System or discover charming towns and vibrant cities whose canal waterfronts still lead to historic Main Streets.
<strong>KeyBank</strong>
KeyBank
KeyBank’s roots trace back 190 years to Albany, New York. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, KeyCorp is one of the nation’s largest bank-based financial services companies, providing deposit, lending, cash management and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of approximately 1,000 branches and more than 1,400 ATMs.

First Niagara Foundation

Founded in 1998, the First Niagara Foundation will carry out the philanthropic legacy of First Niagara Bank, which was acquired by KeyBank in 2016. The Foundation, in partnership with KeyBank, supports not for profit organizations dedicated to empowering individuals and neighborhoods primarily in Western New York.

<strong>General Mills Foundation</strong>
General Mills Foundation
The philanthropy of the General Mills Foundation serves the world by combining with our company’s food expertise, which began more than 150 years ago. Our philanthropy focuses on: Increasing Food Security, Advancing Sustainable Agriculture, and Strengthening Hometown Communities
<strong>The John R. Oishei Foundation</strong>
The John R. Oishei Foundation
A CATALYST FOR CHANGE: The John R. Oishei Foundation enhances the economic vitality and quality of life for the Buffalo Niagara region through grantmaking, leadership and network building.
<strong>The Ralph C. Wilson, JR. Foundation</strong>
The Ralph C. Wilson, JR. Foundation
The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation began operations in 2015 to continue his legacy — one of generosity and innovation, healthy risk-taking and collaboration, and an unshakable community focus.
<strong>Larkin Development</strong>
Larkin Development
Rebuilding and Restoring the Architecture Fabric of Buffalo, NY
<strong>Rigidized Metals Corporation</strong>
Rigidized Metals Corporation
Since 1940, Rigidized® Metals Corporation has led the world in the development and production of deep-textured, three dimensional metals used in architectural, industrial and transportation applications. Rigidized® Metals products are known for their attractive, economical and functional appeal. The Rigidized® Metals deep-texturing process adds strength, impact resistance and the ability to hide scratches. It also allows for down-gauging, resulting in lighter, longer lasting products and reduced maintenance costs.
<strong>Margret L Wendt Foundation</strong>
Margret L Wendt FoundationCharitable Giver
Margret L Wendt Foundation
40 Fountain Plz Ste 277
Buffalo, New York 14202
(716) 855-2146
<strong>Trocaire College</strong>
Trocaire College
Trocaire’s small class sizes and personalized attention build a strong, nurturing and encouraging College community for students of all kinds. With hands on learning in the real world and degrees in growing fields, 97% of alumni feel their Trocaire degree helped them obtain a job. Dignity, respect and empowerment—that is what unites everyone at Trocaire.
<strong>United Way of Buffalo & Erie County</strong>
United Way of Buffalo & Erie County
United Way is proud to support local nonprofits and individuals who want to build their leadership and management skills through free* training and professional development opportunities provided by United Way’s experienced professionals and subject-matter experts.
<strong>Seneca Gaming Corporation</strong>
Seneca Gaming Corporation
Seneca Gaming Corporation (SGC) is a wholly owned, tribally chartered corporation of the Seneca Nation of Indians (Nation) which operates all of the Nation’s Class III gaming operations in Western New York. Seneca Gaming Corporation, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, Seneca Niagara Falls Gaming Corporation (SNFGC), Seneca Territory Gaming Corporation (STGC), and Seneca Erie Gaming Corporation (SEGC), operates Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino in Niagara Falls, New York, Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino in Salamanca, New York, and Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino in Buffalo, New York.
<strong>Arts Services Initiative of WNY</strong>
Arts Services Initiative of WNY
We are the local arts council, serving the 5 counties: Erie, Niagara, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Allegany of Western New York. We provide direct services and support to Erie and Niagara Counties, while complimenting partner services offered in Cattaraugus and Allegany Counties. Are you an artist and need assistance or advice? Maybe you work at a non-profit arts and cultural organization and want to connect to other areas of our community? Attend one of our workshops and learn more about the business-side of art.
<strong>Cummings Foundation</strong>
Cummings Foundation
James H. Cummings Foundation was established to support the philanthropic vision of its namesake. Throughout its 52-year history, the Foundation has aided countless organizations engaged in advancing charitable interests according to the guidelines and policies espoused by Mr. Cummings. Not-for-profit groups in these specific areas may submit a grant application. All such applications will be duly considered by our board of directors, who are dedicated to the fulfillment of the Foundation’s mission. We welcome you to contact us with any further questions.
<strong>Cullen Foundation</strong>
Cullen Foundation
Cullen Foundation is an independent, private foundation dedicated to enhancing education for students in grades pre-K through 12 and advancing theatre and performing arts to positively impact residents of Erie County, New York. The Foundation was created by the late John S. “Jack” Cullen. His estate provided the funding for the foundation.
<strong>WNY Women’s Foundation</strong>
WNY Women’s Foundation
Our mission is to create a culture of possibility so each woman and girl can live, grow and lead to her fullest potential.Attend one of our workshops and learn more about the business-side of art.
<strong>Medaille College</strong>
Medaille College
James H. Cummings Foundation was established to support the philanthropic vision of its namesake. Throughout its 52-year history, the Foundation has aided countless organizations engaged in advancing charitable interests according to the guidelines and policies espoused by Mr. Cummings. Not-for-profit groups in these specific areas may submit a grant application. All such applications will be duly considered by our board of directors, who are dedicated to the fulfillment of the Foundation’s mission. We welcome you to contact us with any further questions.
<strong>East Hill Foundation</strong>
East Hill Foundation
East Hill Foundation identifies and funds innovative, charitable projects designed to enhance the quality of life of residents of Western New York, primarily Erie and Niagara counties. Additionally, this Family Foundation teaches stewardship to the founders’ family members by supporting their projects irrespective of where they live.
<strong>Kelly for Kids Foundation</strong>
Kelly for Kids Foundation
Kelly for Kids is committed to serving disadvantaged and disabled youth in Western New York through the distribution of grant money raised throughout the Year.
<strong>Grassroots Gardens WNY</strong>
Grassroots Gardens WNY
Grassroots Gardens WNY is a determined group of activists who educate and lead committed neighborhood gardeners. We collaboratively cultivate and manage more than 300,000 square feet (and growing!) of green space in Buffalo and Niagara Falls. Our work is rooted in the belief that a garden has the power to transform an urban neighborhood. Gardens deliver beauty and escape and produce healthy food in unexpected places that previously had little value. A garden creates a shared sense of purpose that empowers a community, creates environmental awareness and improves public health.
<strong>University of Buffalo Honors College</strong>
University of Buffalo Honors College
We are a diverse living and learning community of gifted scholars, experienced advisors and committed faculty perfect for the student who craves a challenge and wishes to do more with his/her education.
<strong>Dog Ears Bookstore</strong>
Dog Ears Bookstore
In our bookstore you can find everything from new releases to old classics, with titles for a range of ages and audiences. Enjoy adult and children’s books of all genres, with even more inventory in our online store. All proceeds from the bookstore go directly to programs that promote children’s creativity and literacy throughout Western New York.
<strong>Buffalo Museum of Science</strong>
Buffalo Museum of Science
Our caring teachers educate with the whole child in mind; academically, socially, and spiritually. We strive to help our students do their personal best in all situations, and lifelong friendships are built. All that we do is deeply rooted in our Catholic faith and values. Students also enjoy extra-curricular activities including clubs and a variety of sports teams available for all age levels.
<strong>Notre Dame Academy</strong>
Notre Dame Academy
We are a diverse living and learning community of gifted scholars, experienced advisors and committed faculty perfect for the student who craves a challenge and wishes to do more with his/her education.
<strong>CEPA</strong>
CEPA
Located in Buffalo’s historic Market Arcade Complex, CEPA Gallery is a full-service contemporary photography and visual arts center with impact in both the local and national communities serving approximately 300,000 individuals annually. With four galleries of changing exhibits and events, multimedia public art installations, arts education programs, and an open-access darkroom and digital photo lab, CEPA creates a vibrant presence in the heart of downtown Buffalo.
<strong>Sportsman Americana Music Foundation</strong>
Sportsman Americana Music Foundation
To foster, promote and expand community appreciation for Americana music from Buffalo and Western New York through the production and sponsorship of performance and broadcast events and presentation of seminars and workshops on Americana music.