RALEIGH, NC – Doug Warf, Senior Director of Marketing and Executive Director of the Kids ‘N Community Foundation, today announced that the Foundation’s board has ratified changes for the Foundation’s funding structure. Beginning with the Fall 2012 grant cycle, the Kids ‘N Community Foundation will fulfill grants at three different levels: GOAL Grants, Game Changer Grants and Future Canes Grants. The changes are being implemented in hopes that the Foundation’s efforts will create a more noticeable impact for local children’s non-profit organizations.

“One thing we heard from non-profits is the need for multi-year funding at a high level,” said Foundation board chairperson Kathy Higgins. “The new GOAL Grants allow non-profits to embark on large-scale projects with assurance that they have funding, as long as they work hard to reach their stated goals.”

GOAL (Growing Opportunities and Leaders) Grants will be distributed each fall to two children’s non-profits that focus on the health or educational needs of underserved populations. Recipient organizations will receive a three-year Foundation commitment for $150,000 ($50,000 annually). After one year of a staggered starting schedule, six non-profits will receive GOAL Grants on an annual basis – a total annual community investment of $300,000.

Game Changer Grants will be distributed each spring on an annual basis to 15 children’s non-profits. These grants will be divided into three financial denominations, with five non-profits receiving $5,000, five receiving $10,000 and five receiving $15,000 – a total annual community investment of $150,000.

Future Canes Grants will focus on youth hockey organizations throughout North Carolina. The Foundation pledges to donate at least $50,000 annually to youth hockey, with the possibility of more funding based on need.

The Carolina Hurricanes Kids ‘N Community Foundation provides much needed funding to children’s charities and education programs throughout North Carolina. The Foundation has funded scholarship programs, youth hockey, educational and literacy efforts, children’s health programs, the arts and other children’s related initiatives. Annually, the Foundation provides cash and in-kind contributions of more than $1 million to charitable and educational programs in North Carolina. Every member of the Hurricanes organization is actively involved in community activities and the Hurricanes take great pride in the ability to have a positive impact in our state.