At Heaven Hill Brands, we’re proud to continue our dedication to strengthening the neighborhoods surrounding our Bernheim Distillery through the Spirited Neighbor Community Grant Program. Through this initiative, we’re partnering with local nonprofit organizations to address vital community needs within the California neighborhood and nearby areas.
We’re excited to have announced the second round of Spirited Neighbor Community Grant recipients! These grants will support meaningful programs that uplift and empower our neighbors to thrive:
- Girl Scouts of Kentuckiana – $2,500 for the Access for All financial assistance program, helping more girls in the California Neighborhood experience Girl Scouts, leadership development and new adventures.
- The LEE Initiative – $5,000 for the Youth Culinary Education Program, providing underserved youth with hands-on culinary training, mentorship and career readiness skills.
- Louisville Central Community Center – $5,000 for Skill Up! Change Up! Badge Up!, offering free technology training in areas like data analytics, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
- Parks Alliance of Louisville – $2,500 for Programming a People-Powered Park, activating Alberta Jones Park with community-led enrichment and cultural experiences.
- The Descendants of the California Neighborhood – $10,000 total to support three high-impact initiatives.
- Backpack Giveaway ($2,500) – equipping local students with school supplies, food and clothing.
- Community Grocery Center ($5,000) – providing families with access to nutritious, kid-friendly meals over the weekend.
- Youth Summer Job Program ($2,500) – giving teens paid opportunities to build life skills, leadership and neighborhood pride.
The Spirited Neighbor Community Grant Program is a key part of our broader Spirited Neighbor Initiative, a five-year, $800,000 investment designed to foster collaboration with nonprofits, public organizations and the community at large. This initiative is focused on the key areas of education, mental health and economic development, helping to further support West Louisville.
Lastly, these grants wouldn’t be possible without the thoughtful work of our employee volunteer panel, which evaluated each grant application.
Nonprofits, tax-exempt organizations, and churches that meet section 501(c)(3) requirements can apply for a Spirited Neighbor Community Grant. Applications are submitted online during one of two application cycles each year. The next application window will open in September 2025.
