First Step granted funds for service projects

The First Step Center for Domestic Violence Services has come into some funds for improvement to its grounds at 1099 Columbus Ave. in Fostoria.Now, it is looking for some physical assistance to make it happen.First Step on Tuesday was announced as one of 13 statewide recipients of grants for service projects through ServeOhio, the governor-appointed commission on service and volunteerism. The projects are taking place as part of Make a Difference Day (next Saturday), which is the largest national day of volunteering to meet community needs.ServeOhio's grants, totaling $15,371, will fund projects involving more than 350 volunteers.Kelley Beckett, First Step's executive director, said her agency's all-day project is scheduled to take place next Friday , with between five and 10 volunteers being needed to do weeding, set down weed-killing fabric and spread rocks into large flower beds to make them easier to maintain.The neater beds will "help reassure residents that they are entering a safe and cared-for facility," the announcement from ServeOhio said."We're super-thankful they considered us and excited that they thought we were deserving," Beckett said, noting that almost all of the other projects receiving funds are based in far-larger communities than Fostoria.Beckett said First Step's grant application was for $1,500. She said any funds left over from the gardening will go toward purchasing inside and outside light fixtures.Beckett said the assistance is much appreciated because of First Step's limited human resources in terms of staff.First Step, which was established in 1980 to provide various means of assistance to victims of domestic violence and their children, is one of just two northwest Ohio communities represented among the grant recipients. The other is Owens Community College in Toledo.Other grants are going to East Liverpool, Wilmington, Portsmouth, Columbus, Cleveland, Middleburg Heights, Granville, Jackson, Hamilton and Cincinnati."We're thrilled to see so many organizations across the state coming together to serve their communities for Make A Difference Day this year," said William Hall, executive director for ServeOhio. "It's true that you have to be the change you want to see in the world, and it's great to see so many Ohioans with the common goal of making a difference in our amazing state."To volunteer for First Step's project, call (419) 435-7300.