The Community Foundation of North Central Florida (CFNCF) recently completed a $50,000 match to secure a $50,000 grant to benefit the Local College Access Network (LCAN) program.

Collaborative efforts from the community and the Greater Gainesville Chamber Foundation, which runs the local LCAN, made the $50,000 grant match possible, according to a CFNCF press release sent Thursday.

The $50,000 grant came from the Florida Philanthropic Network’s College Access and Success Initiative (CASI 2.0) Challenge Grant. The grant aims to help foundations support their College Access Network. The CASI 2.0 initiative looks to expand educational opportunities so every Floridian can achieve an education after high school and a rewarding career. The Florida College Access Network, The Kresge Foundation and the Helios Education Foundation also supported the grant.

The Greater Gainesville Chamber Foundation manages the local LCAN program, which features the Cash for College and Florida College Decision Day initiatives.

“This grant is a tremendous boost for our local LCAN program,” said Ian Fletcher, Chief Operating Officer/VP of Education & Talent at the Greater Gainesville Chamber, in the release. “It will enable us to enhance our efforts in providing vital resources and support to underrepresented students in our community. Programs like Florida College Decision Day and Cash for College are critical in fostering educational equity, and this funding will play a crucial role in expanding these initiatives.”

The Cash for College program helps with the free application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA) form and assists students secure college financial aid. The Florida College Decision Day celebrates postsecondary plans for high school seniors along with encouraging younger students and families as they prepare early for college.

“We are incredibly proud to have raised the necessary funds to secure this matching grant,” said Barzella Papa, President and CEO at the CFNCF, in the release. “The community’s support is a testament to the importance of investing in our students’ futures. This grant will help us strengthen the infrastructure and sustainability of our LCAN program, ensuring long-term success and opportunities for all students.”

The funds will go toward the LCAN-supported endowment fund, development strategies and to support LCAN activities and infrastructure.