On Thursday, May 9th, I, along with Julie Chirino attended the IMA Throwdown, where Penny Lane Centers was honored as a recipient of the IMA Foundation Spring Grant Cycle. The IMA Foundation, which sponsors the Throwdown is a part of the IMA Financial Group.
Earlier this year, PLC applied for the IMA Foundation’s 2024 spring grant cycle. “Twice a year IMA reviews hundreds of applications from organizations across the country and award decisions become increasingly more difficult because of the high-quality requests we receive. This year was no different as many exceptional organizations submitted applications. I am happy to announce your grant application for PENNY LANE CENTERS has been approved for $10,000.”
As a recipient of the grant, we were invited to attend the IMA Throwdown. Held at the Rose Bowl, IMA staff gathered, along with grant recipients and a variety of donors to throw down. I wasn’t exactly sure what was being “thrown down”, but upon arrival we found ourselves amid a serious Cornhole tournament. Yes, cornhole. You know, when bean bags are tossed towards the hole on a plank across from you.
Each team donated $10,000 to participate in the throwdown, raising over $250,000 for their upcoming grant cycle. There were cornhole games for fun and then there were games vying for the championship. In either case, these donors tossed and tossed for non-profits across the country. In addition to throwing down, the day allowed for networking opportunities, where connections were made. Penny Lane was thrilled to be a recipient of the previous year’s toss so that we can continue to provide services for our youth.
The donation received will go to support direct services for homeless youth. As a recipient, we will be able to provide clothing, shoes, interview clothes, underwear and rain gear and gift cards for Marshalls and Ross, which will allow youth to make their own clothing choices. Finally, PLC will be able to provide emergency food, gas cards, hotel vouchers and portable power banks that enable youth to remain connected with each other and with PLC activities and services. This contribution will help homeless youth on their path towards safety, stability and independence.
We are beyond thrilled to have been chosen as a Spring Cycle recipient by IMA Foundation. Their donation will help us continue to provide services that further demonstrate our mission and core values to the clients we serve.
“We strive to always support nonprofits that align with our charitable giving focus areas and benefit the communities where the IMA Foundation has a presence.” -David Tom, Sr. Global Account Mgr. IMA Financial Group
We express our deepest thanks to the IMA Foundation and their selection committee for helping us to continue to serve our youth with compassion and acceptance. -David Tom, Sr. Global Account Mgr. IMA Financial Group
Check out some more photos below!
